Farmweek june 1, 2015

A growing trend of fit farmers translates into more health-related county Farm Bureau events. page 2

Trade continues to take center stage for IFB members, including Vice President David Erickson. page 3

Monday, June 1, 2015

Pour a glass of milk or grab a slice of cheese. It’s time to celebrate June Dairy Month! page 4

Final WOTUS rule out; fight not over

Two sections Volume 43, No. 22

HAVING A HAY DAY

BY DEANA STROISCH FarmWeek

Scott Isley teds alfalfa hay for his grandfather, Mike Kreke, on a field between Effing ham and Teutopolis in Effingham County. Illinois farmers as of the first of last week completed 29 percent of the first cutting of alfalfa, 7 percent behind the average pace. See more about alfalfa conditions on page 8. (Photo by Daniel Grant)

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Army Corps of Engineers released its final rule governing “waters of the U.S.” (WOTUS) last week — but the fight’s not over.

Federal lawmakers and agricultural groups, including Illinois Farm Bureau, vowed to push for its withdrawal.

IFB President Richard Guebert Jr. said the new regulations will result in more confusion and new legal liabilities for farmers. Meanwhile, he said, EPA and the Corps will have “unlimited authority to regulate at their discretion.”

“Illinois Farm Bureau doesn’t believe this regulation reflects the intent of Congress, and we will ask our elected officials to take any available action to prevent the WOTUS rule from being implemented,” Guebert said.

The 297-page rule becomes final 60 days after its publication in the Federal Register. FarmWeek will provide more

rule details next week.

Adam Nielsen, IFB’s director of national legislation, said IFB plans to lobby for Senate passage of S 1140, which would require the federal agencies to withdraw and rewrite the rule.

Other legislative options, he said, include defunding implementation of the rule through the appropriations process.

EPA and the Corps maintained the proposed rule merely clarified which bodies of water fall under federal jurisdiction. Opponents believe it expanded federal jurisdiction beyond what Congress intended.

The rule generated more than a million comments.

During a call with reporters last week, EPA’s Gina McCarthy and JoEllen Darcy of the Corps, said “significant changes” were made to the proposed rule as a result of public input.

EPA releases long-delayed Renewable Fuel Standard proposal

BY DEANA STROISCH FarmWeek

Periodicals: Time Valued

Calling the proposed requirements “ambitious but within reach,” the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Friday released its proposed Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) volume requirements for 2014, 2015 and 2016.

EPA’s proposal calls for lowering vol-

ume targets below federal mandates, but increasing them over time.

“Due to constraints in the fuel market to accommodate increasing volumes of ethanol, along with limits on the availability of nonethanol renewable fuels, the volume targets specified by Congress in the Clean Air Act for 2014, 2015 and 2016 cannot be achieved,” according to EPA’s announcement.

The Clean Air Act sets the total renewable fuel volume requirement at 18.15 billion gallons in 2014, 20.5 billion gallons in 2015 and 22.25 billion gallons in 2016.

EPA’s proposal calls for blending 16.3 billion gallons of renewable fuels to gasoline or diesel this year and 17.4 billion gallons in 2016. EPA said its reproposed 2014 requirements match levels that were actually produced and used as transportation fuel, heating oil or jet fuel.

EPA announced plans to take final action on the proposal by Nov. 30.

Illinois Farm Bureau President Richard Guebert Jr. said IFB plans to work with others to urge EPA to set “far more ambitious targets” that would encourage investment and growth in biofuels production.

“While EPA proposes to gradually

increase the amount of biofuels blended in the nation’s motor fuel supply, Illinois Farm Bureau takes issue with EPA’s use of the term ‘ambitious’ to describe overall volumes for this year and next that fall well short of the goals Congress originally set for the RFS program,” Guebert said. “For an administration that likes to talk a big game about the need to reduce greenhouse gases, EPA continues to act timid in the face of an oil industry that would prefer not to blend a single drop of biofuels.”

Bob Dinneen, president and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, called the announcement “a step backwards for the RFS.” “The industry produced 14.3 billion gallons of ethanol last year,” he said.

“There is no reason to promulgate a rule

See WOTUS, page 2

that takes us backward.

All it will do is result in an ever-increasing supply of renewable fuel credits that will further discourage private sector investment in infrastructure and technology. This doesn’t make sense.”

Chip Bowling, president of the National Corn Growers Association, said the group plans to evaluate its legal options.

“The only beneficiary of the EPA’s decision is Big Oil, which has continuously sought to undermine the development of clean, renewable fuels,” he said.

“Unfortunately, the EPA’s gift to Big Oil comes at the expense of family farmers, American consumers and the air we breathe.”

Saying it isn’t perfect, Illinois Soybean Growers said they were happy the proposal calls for growth in biomass-based diesel from 1.63 billion gallons to 1.90 billion gallons in 2017.

The group pointed out that EPA’s initial proposal in November 2013 would have held biodiesel flat at the 2013 standard of 1.28 billion gallons through 2015.

FarmWeek • Page 2 • Monday, June 1, 2015

WOTUS White House senior adviser Brian Deese told reporters: “The only people with reason to oppose the rule are polluters who threaten our clean water,” according to news reports.

Nielsen said IFB was “offended and outraged” by the statement.

Continued from page 1

Lauren Lurkins, IFB director of natural and environmental resources, said the final rule appears similar to the proposed rule.

IFB’s concerns about federal regulation of tributaries, ditches, adjacent waters and other waters still remain with the final rule — and some became worse, she said.

What they’re saying:

Mike Bost, R-Murphysboro: “Make no mistake about it: the impact of the EPA’s Waters of the U.S. ruling will be felt far and wide. Here in southern Illinois, our proud agricultural heritage will now be put at risk by federal bureaucrats intent on telling our farmers and family businesses how to use their land. This unprecedented power grab over America’s waters upends the balanced, federal-state partnership that has regulated U.S. waters for over 40 years under the Clean Water Act. I have voted to scrap this rule in Mike Bost the past, and I will continue to fight this shameful overreach in the future.”

John Shimkus, R-Collinsville: “The White House says the only people who have a reason to oppose this disastrous rule are ‘polluters who knowingly threaten our clean water.’ Well, they should tell that to the hardworking farmers and struggling small business owners in my district who see right through this EPA power grab; they should tell it to the state and local governments who spoke out against this federal overreach; and they should tell it to their own Small Business Administration, who urged EPA and the Corps to withdraw the rule last year. This fight is far from over.” John Shimkus

Rodney Davis, R-Taylorville: “This is yet another example of the EPA ignoring the concerns of our farmers and failing to understand the real life impact of their rules and regulations. The finalization of this rule further highlights the need, and urgency, for creating an agriculture subcommittee on the EPA Science Advisory Board to give agriculture a stronger voice in the regulatory process. I will continue to push for the withdrawal of this flawed rule and ensure the Rodney Davis EPA gives our farmers a seat at the table.”

(ISSN0197-6680) Vol. 43 No. 22 June 1, 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. © 2015 Illinois Agricultural Association

FarmWeeknow.com

i

@FarmWeekNow @ILFarmBureau

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

facebook.com/illfarmbureau

instagram.com/ilfarmbureau

Ready, set, get fit: Farmer activity adds health

Illinois Farm Bureau Director Dennis Green of Lawrenceville, second from left, runs in the IAA Foundation’s Grow & Go at the IAA Building in Bloomington, his first after heart surgery. (Photo by Ken Kashian)

BY KAY SHIPMAN FarmWeek

Christian County Farm Bureau Young Ag Leaders illustrate an apparently growing trend — more farmers being active for health and fitness.

Three years ago, the Young Ag Leaders’ Plowing the Streets 5K launched a project to raise scholarship funds. “None of us were runners,” said Kimberly May of Pawnee, who helped organize the event. The group reasoned anyone could join a 5K. The next year, they added a mile walk. “Quite a few older folks wanted to participate, but they didn’t want to go 3.1 miles,” May explained.

This year’s event, scheduled at 8 a.m. July 18, offers a 5K, a mile walk — and a new, free kids’ fun race. Many of the young leaders participate with their children, setting an example of fun family exercise.

“We’re trying to make this more of a family event,” May added.

To expand the benefits, the young leaders also worked with physical therapists, masseuses and local fitness clubs to promote and assist with the event and participants. “We definitely are promoting a healthy lifestyle,” May said.

Illinois Farm Bureau Director Dennis Green of Lawrenceville knows firsthand the health benefits from walking and running. This May, about eight months after his heart attack and bypass surgery, Green ran a 5K, the IAA Foundation’s Grow & Go. A runner and jogger 20 years earlier, Green described his cardiac rehabilitation as “lots

of walking.”

“Since that time, I’ve been walking every day and trying to do jogging with the idea of putting off heart-related issues,” Green said. “It helps to have a goal to keep in mind.”

Years ago, Green said his doctor questioned why more farmers were experiencing health problem when they’d been a healthy group historically. Green pointed out farming requires less physical activity given modern ag technology.

Anecdotal evidence suggests farmers and rural residents walk, run, cycle and play sports more than previously. However, neither Carle Center for Rural Health and Farm Safety nor AgriSafe Network could offer any related studies or data. Two of several county Farm Bureau managers who are runners gave different views on farmers exercising for health and fitness.

Bureau County Farm Bureau Manager Jill Frueh, a veteran of many 5Ks, started running four years ago, joined a running group two years later and recently completed her first half marathon. People frequently share their running experiences with Frueh, but she acknowledged they may do so knowing of her experiences and interest.

Last week, Frueh joined fellow runners and fitness enthusiasts for their first advocacy/ spokesperson training for Team Beef Illinois, 15 athletes, primarily runners, who are interested in physical fitness and understand the value of healthy protein in their diet.

New this year, Team Beef Illinois members reside across the

state and primarily work in agriculture, except for one member from the St. Louis area, according to Sheila Grobosky, industry programs director with the Illinois Beef Association (IBA).

“Part of the beauty of a team is you have a group to run and train with, to share ideas with ... and be accountable to,” Grobosky said. For information, contact IBA or visit the team’s Facebook page.

Cook County Farm Bureau Manager Bob Rohrer, a runner with 20 years of experience, questioned whether more farmers lace up running shoes today; however, he mentioned seeing more farmers cycling and walking.

“Most exercise becomes a good habit if you keep doing it,” Rohrer said. “Planting and harvest comes around and they (farmers) have to focus on that.”

Green noted training for a 5K or another event offers “benefits before you do it, and hopefully those will continue.”

His county Farm Bureau and two others are planning their first 5K events.

While big events promise fitness and fun, farmers and county Farm Bureaus should think outside the wellness box.

A 35-day wellness challenge resulted in Cook County Farm Bureau staff participating in everything from ice skating to cycling and running, according to Rohrer.

“I would encourage anybody who thinks they’re not capable to just go out and try it,” Frueh concluded. “You will improve yourself, see changes and improve your frame of mind.”

County Farm Bureau activities abound County Farm Bureau groups provide many opportunities to run, golf or just have fun — and raise money for a good cause. For details, contact the hosting county Farm Bureau.

Events include: • June 19, Edgar County Farm Bureau golf outing, Agriculture in Classroom (AITC) fundraiser; • June 19, Two Rivers Farm Bureau Foundation of Pike and Scott County Farm Bureaus golf tournament, foundation fundraiser; • June 26, Bureau and Lee County Farm Bureaus golf outing, AITC fundraiser; • June 26, DuPage County

Farm Bureau golf outing, foundation fundraiser; • June 26, LaSalle County Farm Bureau golf outing, AITC fundraiser; • July 3, Grundy County Farm Bureau Foundation 5K run/walk and kid races, fundraiser; • July 11, Shelby County Farm Bureau Foundation golf outing, foundation and scholarship fundraiser; • July 12, Cass-Morgan Farm Bureau Young Leaders Ag Olympics for all ages; • July 18, White County Farm Bureau Young Leader pistol shoot, committee fundraiser; • July 20, Cass-Morgan

Farm Bureau Foundation golf outing and trapshoot, scholarship fundraiser; • July 25, Wayne County Young Leader golf scramble, committee fundraiser; • Aug. 14, Kendall County Farm Bureau Young Leaders golf outing, AITC fundraiser; • Sept. 19, Lawrence County Farm Bureau Foundation first 5K and 1-mile family fun walk, foundation fundraiser; and • Sept. 26, DuPage County Farm Bureau first 5K Fun Run, foundation fundraiser.

Plan next year for Jackson County Farm Bureau’s first 5K fundraiser on April 2, 2016.

Farmers share importance of Trade Promotion Authority Page 3 • Monday, June 1, 2015 • FarmWeek

BY DEANA STROISCH FarmWeek

The U.S. House this week could debate whether to allow President Barack Obama to negotiate trade deals without Congress changing them.

Senators backed the idea recently, voting 62-37 in favor of Trade Promotion Authority (TPA). Under TPA, Congress still has the chance to vote up or down, but they can’t amend the deals.

Illinois Farm Bureau President Richard Guebert Jr. urged the House to follow the Senate’s lead.

“Over the past five years, Illinois farmers and processors have exported more than $40 billion worth of ‘made in Illinois’ corn, soybeans, feed grains, pork, beef and other products,” he said. “The passage of this bill will expand our markets, grow our economy and help put more people to work.”

Here’s why other Illinois farmers support TPA: Ron Moore, Warren County Moore just planted his 38th crop. He grows soybeans, corn,

alfalfa hay and has about 230 steers. He farms with his wife, son and brother.

His family’s operation depends on strong trade agreements. The family sends most of their soybeans down the Mississippi River to Pacific Rim countries.

“We must continue to expand our ability to meet customer demand for Ron Moore protein needs,” he said. “If we don’t, there are certainly other countries that will.”

He said TPA would create stability and predictability in the marketplace.

“When that happens, confidence in the ability of the U.S. ag industry to deliver ag products on time and efficiently increases.

“We would become the trading partner of choice, and therefore, we continue to supply the global demand for food products.”

John Longley, Mercer County Longley started farming in 1972. He and his daughter, Kate Danner, grow soybeans and seed soybeans.

He also serves as District 3 director for the Illinois Soybean Association.

He said all the commercial soybeans and corn they raise go directly into export channels via the Mississippi River system. In previous years, some of their corn went to ethanol plants overseas.

Passage of TPA would provide better access to Asian markets, he said. And when livestock producers gain access to Asian markets, grain prices would John Longley improve, which in turn, would improve their bottom line, he said.

“Trade is very important for Illinois agriculture,” he said.

“We export half the soybeans we produce as meal and oil or whole soybeans. Hogs eat 85 percent of soybean meal pro-

duced in Illinois and a portion of them are exported.”

Bill Olthoff, Kankakee County Olthoff grew specialty crops, including onion sets, for more than four decades. He now focuses on corn and soybeans.

Olthoff, who served on the IFB Board for 10 years, has seen the value of trade through his own farming operation — and during overseas trips, including an IFB Market Bill Olthoff Study Tour to China.

He noted American goods “have in many cases, priced ourselves out of the world market” because of higher labor costs and infrastructure challenges that are “not conducive to trade.”

“I think we’re getting more and more competitive when we knuckle down and meet the competition,” he said. “But it’s difficult.”

Illinois legislative roundup

David Erickson, IFB vice president Erickson grows corn and soybeans in Knox County. He exports most of his soybeans and about half his corn crop in the form of ethanol or distiller’s dried grains (DDGs).

Erickson said TPA should be passed because “we don’t have time for other David Erickson countries to fiddle around and negotiate an agreement, and then for our congressional representatives to again fiddle around and make an agreement.”

“Trade, to me, is almost forgotten at times by farmers,” he said. “We see our product at the farm gate or at the local elevator or at the terminal market, and we forget sometimes about what happens there. That’s why it’s important we engage our members and stay involved in all aspects of trade, and Trade Promotion Authority, in particular.”

Illinois Farm Bureau legislative priorities headed to governor

BY KAY SHIPMAN FarmWeek

The Illinois Senate and House Thursday passed two Illinois Farm Bureau legislative priorities that protect landowners and that will be sent to Gov. Bruce Rauner.

The Senate passed HB 3523 with 56 yes votes and a single present vote. Sponsored by Sen. John Sullivan, D-Rushville, and Rep. Adam Brown, R-Decatur, the bill deals with agricultural impact mitigation agreements related to commercial development of wind energy.

As a fifth-generation family farmer, Brown told FarmWeek that he was thrilled to sponsor the legislation: “Property rights are taken seriously in the ag field.”

Protection of landowner rights related to commercial wind development, especially decommissioning, remains pivotal as does development of a basic threshold across the state, Brown said. In addition, the legislation safeguards local governments’ ability to determine what protections are best suited for their area, he noted.

Sullivan added, “The restoration of damaged land and drainage tile, tree clearing and replanting, and how turbines will be removed after their useful life are real issues that affect farmers. The requirement that companies have basic construction and deconstruction standards that protects farmland makes common sense.”

”We are pleased HB 3523 has passed both chambers,” said Bill Bodine, IFB associate director of state legislation. “Hopefully, this bill will be signed into law by the governor and provide landowners involved in wind energy projects more protections for the restoration of their land. We greatly appreciate the hard work of Rep. Adam Brown and Sen. John Sullivan getting the bill to the governor’s desk.”

Under the legislation, operators of commercial wind energy facilities must sign an agricultural impact mitigation agreement with the Illinois Department of Agriculture. The agreement will outline construction and deconstruction standards and

policies designed to preserve the integrity of any agricultural land impacted by construction and deconstruction. The parties must sign the agreement before any county or municipality hearing on project siting. The bill does not impact two current projects that have filed for permits with their respective counties and have had, or will soon have, public hearings on the projects.

The House unanimously passed SB 1726, sponsored by Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet, and Rep. Brandon Phelps, D-Harrisburg. The legislation changes the notification requirements and other protections for landowners whose property may be impacted by a transmission line project.

Dissent reigns as legislative session adjournment looms

BY KAY SHIPMAN FarmWeek

Illinois senators followed representatives in defeating Gov. Bruce Rauner’s strategy to alter the Illinois Workers’ Compensation system, and also killed the governor’s tort liability law changes. Simultaneously, Democrat and Republican lawmakers wrangled over components of a new state budget for the fiscal year starting July 1.

Illinois Farm Bureau supported Gov. Bruce Rauner’s call for tort and workers’ compensation reforms. “To bring Illinois back to a businessfriendly state, we need to take action to change the way we do things,” said IFB President

Richard Guebert Jr. “Two important steps are changing the way our tort liability and workers’ compensation laws function.”

Guebert noted IFB members “have long felt the tort laws of the state need to be changed to provide a more reasonable legal arena.”

“Fixing both the Tort laws and Workers’ Compensation system is necessary and commendable. We realize this will not be an easy task, but we encourage Gov. Rauner and members of the Illinois General Assembly to accomplish this goal,” Guebert said.

The Democrat-majority House and Senate passed por-

tions of a $36.3 billion state budget that lawmakers acknowledge remains at least $3 billion in the hole. In early May, the House defeated the governor’s proposed funding cuts to social services.

At FarmWeek press time, the General Assembly was still working on final portions of an appropriation plan for the state FY 2016 budget.

“It became evident as the week progressed that an ‘agreed budget’ between the governor and the General Assembly was not going to come to fruition,” said Kevin Semlow, IFB director of state legislation. The House and Senate were working on appro-

priation bills that were slightly lower in some budget areas than last year.

“As these bills were presented in committee hearings, the sponsors stated that the proposed budget has a revenue shortfall of over $3 billion. During the debate, this point was stated repeatedly,” said Semlow. Adding, “To make the situation even more dire, Gov. Rauner has clearly stated that he will not accept a budget until many of his policy issues, like tort reform and workers compensation reform, are addressed by the General Assembly.”

At press time, it was expected that the appropriation bills

would be approved by the General Assembly by the May 31 deadline. “The next step will be for Gov. Rauner to take action, and it is expected he will veto the entire package,” said Semlow.

“If the appropriation bills are vetoed, we are not sure when the General Assembly will return to address the lack of a state budget,” Semlow said.

The state fiscal year officially ends June 30. “Without appropriation authority, state government cannot legally pay bills, vendors or employees. This will only add to the current tensions between our lawmakers and the governor.”

June Dairy Month a special one for National Dairy Council

FarmWeek • Page 4 • Monday, June 1, 2015

BY DANIEL GRANT FarmWeek

The start of June Dairy Month today carries added significance for the National Dairy Council (NDC).

This year marks the centennial celebration for NDC, which was founded by America’s dairy farmers in 1915.

NDC, a nonprofit organization funded by the national dairy checkoff program, sports a staff of registered dietitians, nutrition research and communications experts across the country who deliver science-based nutrition information to foster a healthier nation.

“NDC has spent a century bringing to life the dairy community’s vision of a healthy and sustainable world,” NDC noted on its website {national

dairycouncil.org}. “And we’ve only just begun.”

NDC takes a leadership role pro-

moting child health and wellness through various programs.

A diet including three, daily recommended servings of milk, which has nine essential nutrients, makes up a key part of child health promotions.

NDC in the next century plans to maintain its core focus and place more attention on connecting people to agriculture via a farm-to-table focus.

It also will enhance culinary approaches to help people make meaningful changes to their eating and lifestyle habits.

Many of NDC’s programs will be highlighted the next 30 days during June Dairy Month.

June Dairy Month began in 1937 as a way to help distribute extra milk when cows start on pasture each season, which creates a spring flush.

For more dairy nutrition information and recipes, visit the website {DairyMakesSense.com}.

U.S. removes Cuba from terrorism list The United States took a step toward restoring diplomatic relations with Cuba Friday.

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry signed an order removing Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism.

The Illinois Cuba Working

Group, of which Illinois Farm Bureau is a member, encouraged President Barack Obama in April to remove Cuba from the terrorism list.

Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin, DSpringfield, called the action “a welcome move regarding rela-

Morgan Wendling poses on her family’s dair y farm near Altamont in Effingham County. Wendling, a senior animal sciences major at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, places a great deal of emphasis on being a spokesperson for her industry. That focus includes an internship this summer with the Midwest Dairy Association. (Photo by Jennifer Wendling)

tions between the U.S. and Cuba.”

“While no fan of the Castro regime, I continue to believe that opening up the island to American ideas, vibrancy and trade is the most effective way to see a more open and tolerant Cuba,” Durbin added.

Fuel isn’t the only thing driving your success.

Businesses that are driven to succeed partner with FS. Our energy experts stay focused on what’s ahead, providing next generation fuel management tools and state-of-the-art software, along with a breadth of essential, quality products that point the way forward. FS is always discovering new ways to help customers optimize their operations and ensure they’re ready for what’s next.

TM

www.fssystem.com ©2014 GROWMARK, Inc. A14174

Lt. Gov. Evelyn Sanguinetti, left, chats with Henry County farmers Patty and John Sedlock, who market their specialty crops with the Homegrown By Heroes Illinois Product logo. Sanguinetti spoke at a statewide collaborative farmer veteran summit hosted by Illinois Farm Bureau in Bloomington. (Photo by Kay Shipman)

IFB, IDOA redeploy farmer veteran branding, marketing

BY KAY SHIPMAN Farmweek

A couple lumps in the throat emerged along with touching stories about the link between veterans and agriculture. Last week, Illinois Farm Bureau hosted a summit for agencies and organizations that support Homegrown By Heroes® Illinois marketing and branding campaign.

“Farming can be a form of healing,” IFB President Richard Guebert Jr. said, while relating a phone call from a farmer whose recently returned soldier son is experiencing posttraumatic stress disorder. The farmer expressed hope his son would be inspired to become involved with farming, Guebert added.

IFB and the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) adopted Homegrown By Heroes Illinois that offers free use of special logos and signs

to certified Illinois veterans of any era and active military personnel. For details and an application, visit {agr.state.il.us} and search for Homegrown By Heroes. Summit participants heard from representatives of USDA, University of Illinois Extension and the Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs about available resources and programs.

Lt. Gov. Evelyn Sanguinetti commended IFB and IDOA for bringing the program to Illinois and committed her support “to give the tools they need to succeed.”

Cynthia Haskins, IFB manager of business development and compliance, encouraged interested agencies and organizations to attend a July 16 meeting when collaborators will join subgroups and work on tasks. Interested parties should contact Haskins at CHaskins@ ilfb.org.

Beef producers see value in quality assurance program

Page 5 • Monday, June 1, 2015 • FarmWeek

BY DANIEL GRANT FarmWeek

Kyle Beutke, a cattle farmer and Sangamon County Farm Bureau member from Dawson, recalls taking the Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) program when he was in 4-H. In fact, Beutke, who helps raise Angus cattle for his in-laws at Etherton Farms, saw enough value in the BQA program that he decided to take it again.

And he’s certainly not alone. A record number of producers (2,100) recently became BQA-certified through a free program supported by Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Inc. During the last four years, nearly 22,000 producers took advantage of free offers to sign up for the BQA program. Beutke was near the end of completing to learn more about his second go-around in the prothe Beef Quality gram last week.

Assurance program.

“It’s good, not only for us producers, but good for consumers outside the industry to see we’re taking good care of the product we’re putting on the table,” Beutke said.

The program, funded by the Beef Checkoff Program, provides producers a set of best management practices for producing quality beef. It also assures consumers they receive safe and wholesome beef products.

“I’d already done it (the BQA program) through 4-H, but it’s one of those things I wanted to take again,” said Beutke, whose wife, Ashley, manages the Mason and Menard County Farm Bureaus.

“Some of it (the recommended best practices) seems like obvious stuff, but it’s a good reminder of how we should be doing things.”

Some of the best management practices stressed in the BQA program include proper handling and administration of vaccinations, and low-stress cattle handling principles.

BQA certification modules are customized to fit specific needs of each segment of the cattle industry, including cow-calf, stocker, feed yard and dairy operations.

Etherton Farms, which has a herd of about 150 Angus cattle, sells purebred seedstock and show heifers. The operation previously featured Limousin cattle.

For more information about the BQA program, visit the website {bqa.org} or {MyBeefCheckoff.com}.

French revamp yogurt with goat, sheep milk

France is turning to goat, ewe and sheep milk to revamp its yogurt and dessert offerings. The French accounted for more than a fifth of all alternative milk product launches in 2013-14, according to global marketing research company, Mintel.

Goat and sheep milk-based yogurt and desserts accounted for 5 percent of the 2014 new product launches in France across both segments.

Most of the current goat and sheep milk products on the market are certified organic, and more than half of the new products are organic.

Consumers consider the products as artisanal because they’re generally sold under niche or specialty brands.

New products emphasize taste and their alternative sourcing. They are often positioned as easier to digest, although they contain lactose.

TAKING A BREAK FOR SAFETY

Farmer Dave Hester of Huntsville takes a planting break with Jami Kelly, Schuyler County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD).

Schuyler County Farm Bureau teamed with SWCD, Prairieland FS and COUNTRY Financial Representative Jim Baack to sponsor “Taking a Break.” Farmers received a drink and snack as well as slow moving vehicle signs, FS hats, and a reminder to slow down and share the road. Six members received fire extinguishers. (Photo by Kelly Westlake, Schuyler County Farm Bureau manager)

Kyle Beutke feeds cattle on his family’s farm, which operates in Sangamon and Mason counties. Beutke currently takes part in the Beef Quality Assurance program, funded by the Beef Checkoff Program, to ensure best management practices are used on the farm, and assure consumers about safety and quality of the beef.

(Photo by Ken Kashian)

SWCD sets Lake Springfield Watershed planning meeting

The Sangamon County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) will host a public meeting at 7 p.m. June 10 at the Sangamon County Farm Bureau to discuss and seek input on the Lake Springfield Watershed study.

Participants will discuss the watershed plan and actions that may be taken to enhance the

lake and surrounding area, including goal priorities and restoration opportunities. The plan recommendations are voluntary.

For more information, write the Sangamon County SWCD, 2623 Sunrise Drive, Suite 1, Springfield, IL 62703; call 217-241-6635, ext.

3; or email michelle.seman@il.nacdnet.net.

Accuracy where it matters most.

Applying the right products to the right place is essential to each crop acre. That’’ss why growers turn to FS for custom application. Our applicators stay focused on what’’ss ahead by applying accurate inputs at just the right time in the crop life cycle. Our custom applicators maximize each acre and ensure your fields are ready for what’’ss next.

www w.fssystem.com

TM

©2013 GROWMARK, Inc. A14142

FarmWeek • Page 6 • Monday, June 1, 2015 Brian Sisson, Belvidere, Boone County: Rainfall during the first half of the week made finishing planting difficult along with post spraying fields. Most of the area received 1 to 2 inches of rain during Memorial Day weekend.

This year’s corn crop is off to one of the best starts we have ever had at the farm with most of the corn being V3 to V4. Soybeans that have been planted have emerged and appear to have good stands. Corn planting is pretty much wrapped up around here, and about 80 percent of the soybeans have been planted.

Pete Tekampe, Grayslake, Lake County: We received 1.6 inches of rain this week. Corn is almost all planted, and the earlyplanted corn is looking good.

Beans are almost 60 percent planted. Early beans are also looking good. Winter wheat is starting to head out. Not much hay has been cut yet, but it all looks good.

Still need some sun and hot weather to finish up.

Leroy Getz, Savanna, Carroll County: More rain has delayed the last corn and beans needing to be planted. I registered 2.7 inches of rain from Sunday (May 24) through Tuesday. That brings May’s total to 9.45 inches.

Some fields show lots of erosion and others are ponded. Corn and beans that are up are growing well, and the stands look good. Herbicides seem to be working exceptionally well.

Wheat is heading out, but the wet weather will have more effect on it. Hay making just isn’t happening, yet the fields are growing rapidly. We are getting ready for June Dairy Month, along with the state dairy farm health inspections.

Ryan Frieders, Waterman, DeKalb County: Crop conditions are slow to improve. Planting progress is 90 percent complete.

Fields that are planted are slow to emerge. The last couple of days, temperatures have been closer to normal, and corn plants are looking green and healthy, but colder temperatures are in the forecast.

Weeds and the grass continue to grow, and very windy days have limited the amount of spraying.

Larry Hummel, Dixon, Lee County: Finally, some warm weather to get crops going. Earlyplanted corn got off to a good start and then seemed to just sit and wait for Mother Nature to turn up the heat. Germination for both corn and beans is about perfect. Fixing drainage tile and shipping out some corn and soybeans kept me busy last week.

Ken Reinhardt, Seaton, Mercer County: The northwestern part of the county experienced an EF-2 tornado, which traveled several miles hitting numerous farmsteads. Heavy rains fell in this area as well.

Rain was more moderate and welcome over the rest of the county. Soybeans have mostly emerged with good stands. Post-emergence spraying of corn is the main focus of activity now.

Ron Moore, Roseville, Warren County: We received 2 inches of rain last week that came in three storms. One inch came in about 30 minutes. That was the heaviest rain we have received all spring. Just a few acres of beans in this area left to plant. I got my last planting of sweet corn done last Thursday. We should be able to eat it all July and August. I scouted the soybeans for insects and did not find any.

The early-planted corn is just a few days from closing in the rows. The tile lines are just now increasing their water flows with the recent rains.

Jacob Streitmatter, Princeville, Peoria County: Soybean planting made rapid progress a week and a half ago, but now with current rain, it came to a screeching halt. I would guess soybeans are about 80 percent planted. Post applications are being sprayed on corn. With the warm weather we have had, the corn is now finally starting to grow.

Tim Green, Wyoming, Stark County: It was a wet week.

We just watched the corn and beans grow, and the weeds, too.

There was a little activity Thursday and Friday spraying corn. The weather started cooperating, and the fields dried off and seem firm.

Hopefully, we can miss a rain and finish planting beans, since approximately 80 percent of the beans are planted.

The corn is getting big enough that it is showing some of our mistakes. We have some yellow corn, so it needs some sun and heat. Be safe.

Mark Kerber, Chatsworth, Livingston County: Warm, dry weather has given farmers a chance to finish planting soybeans and replant corn. The five days of predicted rain ended up only totaling .3 of an inch in our area. Corn stands are spotty, depending on when you planted and where you live in the county. NH3 and liquid nitrogen is being side-dressed. Some are starting to mow roadsides. Hay is getting cut and baled. Corn spraying will be starting.

Markets are not quite low enough for us to give up and sell. There is a lot of corn still in ownership to be priced.

Ron Haase, Gilman, Iroquois County: Farmers were busy in the fields last week. They were finishing up planting and replanting, side-dressing nitrogen in corn, and applying herbicides in corn and soybean fields.

Things slowed down due to rain on Tuesday. Our farms received a range of .25 to .35 of an inch of rain. Strong winds also slowed herbicide applications. Most area cornfields are in the V4 to V5 growth stage. Most soybean fields have just emerged, but the earlier planted soybeans are at the V2 growth stage. Local closing prices for May 28 were nearby corn, $3.36; new-crop corn, $3.34; nearby soybeans, $9.29; new-crop soybeans, $8.64.

Brian Schaumburg, Chenoa, McLean County: GDU’s are running a little ahead of average, and corn is set to enter its rapid growth phase. Early plantings are at V3-V5, and narrowrow corn will canopy by the first of June. Soybeans are at VC to V3.

Post spraying is taking place in both corn and beans. Side-dressing N is wrapping up. We missed most of the rains last week, although areas south and east of here have had ponding and replanting of both corn and beans. Crops continue to rate excellent. Wish I could say the same for markets. Corn, $3.43, fall, $3.44; soybeans, $9.23, fall, $8.73; wheat, $4.52.

Steve Ayers, Champaign, Champaign County: The green carpet emergeth from the dark soil. Crops are growing rapidly after temperatures warmed up.

The .35 of an inch of rain on Tuesday helped that, too. USDA has our crop reporting district at 96 percent corn planted and 61 percent soybeans planted. The good news of the week was Gordyville USA has reopened for horse shows. The equine herpes found May 2 and 3 was from two horses from northern Illinois that were there for a horse show. Let’s be careful out there.

Wilfred Dittmer, Quincy, Adams County: Greetings from Adams County where we are still basically dry underfoot, despite the fact that it rains a little bit nearly every day.

We got 1 inch last weekend (May 23-24) and then another .8 of an inch on Tuesday. Some planters have been going in drier fields and those early-planted fields are looking good. Everyone now would just like to get back in their fields and get the rest of the beans in the ground. Corn is almost tall enough to watch it grow. Have a good day.

Carrie Winkelmann, Tallula, Menard County: We received .43 inches of rain this week and 3.08 inches total with three days left in the month of May. Before the rain came during Memorial Day weekend, we managed to get all of our urea top-dressed. Farmers in the area continue fertilizer applications. Soybeans are starting to put out their third trifoliate, and corn is reaching canopy. The crops look good, and we have been lucky in that our herbicide applications have been timely and the rain has been just right to keep weed pressure low. We have been testing water for nitrates and soluble phosphorus on two of our self-contained tile system outlets. All of the tests have shown nitrates lower than 10 ppm, which is the drinking water standard, and phosphorus has been undetectable. Some haying has been going on in area between rains.

Tom Ritter, Blue Mound, Macon County: Hoping to grab some rainfall during the weekend.

Southern Macon County has been on the short side this past month.

Crop conditions look excellent.

Corn and soybean planting is virtually complete. Corn is anywhere from 1 to 2 feet tall with a good, green color. The last soybeans are emerging, and the earlier beans are up to 3 or 4 inches tall. Stands are very adequate on both. Off to a good start. There is some side-dressing of 28 percent or anhydrous going on corn and also post application of herbicides on corn.

Todd Easton, Charleston, Coles County: Somewhat warmer weather and very light rain sums up this week as producers work hard between the corn rows spraying, side-dressing and making good progress. Cornfields are growing into the V2 and V3 stages, and are very even and not showing a lot of yellow spots.

Soybean fields are getting into the V1 stage and hopefully hit a stride with this warmer weather to close up rows. My summary of the crop right now is that the potential is there, but it will depend on where Mother Nature takes it, as always, but at least we have a good start.

Jimmy Ayers, New City, Sangamon County: We received a couple shots of .2 of an inch of rain each, which slowed things down a little, but there has been a lot of activity. Bean planting is wrapping up for a lot of people.

Roadsides are being mowed, sidedressing corn, spraying corn. A lot of corn is looking good, and beans are coming out of the ground. The 80degree temperatures are helping to bring these crops around.

Doug Uphoff, Shelbyville, Shelby County: We received .45 of an inch from May 16-22. My only complaint is we could have had our hay baled by now. I’m too chicken to cut it knowing that’s what it will take to get the 3-inch rain. We started corn April 23 and finished beans May 23. I’d say all the corn is planted and 95 percent of the beans are planted. I was beginning to wonder if bean planting was going to get done after the back half of our Kinze planter broke off in the transport position.

Come to find out, they make a kit to reinforce it. At least we weren’t under it servicing it. If you have a horizontal-fold Kinze, please check where the top part of the planter is welded to the center pivot post and inspect it for cracks, and take the time to have a professional welder put the kit on for you. Thanks to Tony’s Welding in Shelbyville for helping us out. Be careful and have a safe week.

David Schaal, St. Peter, Fayette County: We received .25 of an inch of rain Sunday night (May 24), and a couple sprinkles since then. We are grateful the forecast was wrong.

Most farmers were able to get back in the field and plant beans at a rapid pace. Corn planting in the area is pretty well complete, and by the time this report is published, soybean planting will be wrapped up for the most part. Still some side-dressing going on with corn. The corn seems to be growing and looking better every day. The warm, humid weather has really helped with its progress. Continue to be safe as planting is wrapping up.

Page 7 • Monday, June 1, 2015 • FarmWeek Jeff Guilander, Jerseyville, Jersey County: Hit and miss showers are nothing new, but the amounts are impressive.

Climate Corp. this morning is listing the amounts of rain in the same field from .3 of an inch to 1.2 inches, and by the looks of it, I believe it. This makes planting and spraying a little hard to get a handle on, let alone any hay cutting.

Still playing catch-up, but we are getting closer.

Dan Meinhart, Montrose, Jasper County: It was a rather dry and warm week with a few isolated light showers. A lot of corn and beans went into the ground, although there was rain in the forecast almost every day.

Quite a bit was replanted where there were inadequate stands.

The early-planted corn is being side-dressed. Wheat is beginning to turn.

Heavy rains are in the forecast for the weekend (May 30-31). Most people are ready for a nice, slow rain.

Dave Hankammer, Millstadt, St. Clair County: Last week, we saw daytime temps return to the 80s and nighttime temps in the lower 70s.

Farmers were busy planting soybeans and finishing corn planting Sunday (May 24) ahead of predicted rain, of which we received more than 1 inch that evening. Corn plants in the fields now average about 6 to 8 inches, and the color has improved with the warmer temps. Earlier-planted soybeans are now approximately 2 inches tall and emergence appears to be good; however, there are corn and soybean fields that need to be replanted due to the cool, wet conditions. Additional soybean fields were planted prior to this report deadline on Thursday. Soil conditions are still wetter than desired, but it’s time to plant. The wheat crop is looking good and is changing color as it continues to develop to maturity.

Local grain bids are corn, $3.50; soybeans, $9.40; wheat, $4.53. Have a safe week.

Dean Shields, Murphysboro, Jackson County: Another wet week with only one day of planting. The corn planting is mostly done. About 60 percent of the beans are planted. The wet weather has turned some of the corn and beans yellow. The wheat is just turning. At this point, we don’t have any idea about yields. It is starting to get late, so I hope it dries out soon. Take care and have a safe planting season.

Kevin Raber, Browns, Wabash County: Good weather has allowed field activities to progress this past week. Soybean planting is quickly coming to a close. There are a few, wet fields left, but not many. The wheat looks good for now. The drier, warmer weather is agreeing with the wheat.

Ken Taake, Ullin, Pulaski County: After some light showers during Memorial Day weekend, we finally got back in the field Tuesday afternoon. Activities have been side-dressing corn, spraying and trying to plant soybeans. Rain is in the forecast for the weekend again, so everything is pretty much at full speed. Remember to be careful.

Post-emergence residual herbicides in soybeans

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

In roughly a month, we will celebrate the Fourth of July with friends and family, while silently congratulating ourselves on having made the best crop input decisions, including weed control.

However, the nag ging question remains, “Will my soybeans David Powell be weed-free at the end of the season?” Many will say, “How could they not be? The best pre-emergence herbicide was used and was followed up by a post-emergence herbicide to control any remaining weeds!”

Every now and then, time has a way of blocking out memories that aren’t always so pleasant. Cer tainly we can remember the record-breaking corn yields from 2014, but do we really want to remember the weedy soybeans or the way the combine bogged down as it gobbled up a patch of green weeds in the middle of the soybean field?

Last year, while celebrating our independence, there was reason for great optimism about the weed management programs that had been implemented. Driving throughout the state, the fields looked clean and the soybeans had mostly closed the rows. However, at the end of July and into August, something began poking out above the soybean canopy. It was our old friend waterhemp here to ruin the day.

With application of both pre-emergence and post-emergence herbicides, how could waterhemp have broken through the defenses? The key to understanding this question is to understand the emergence patterns of waterhemp.

BY DAVID POWELL

While many weed species, such as giant ragweed, tend to emerge in a short time period early in the season, waterhemp germinates over a much longer timespan and into the later portions of the growing season.

Our pre-emergence soybean herbicides cannot be expected to provide season-long control of waterhemp. Post-emergence herbicide combinations can be successful in controlling small waterhemp, but the herbicide groups that have foliar activity on waterhemp tend to not have lengthy residual.

This is where a post-emergence residual herbicide can help. We can add a group 15 herbicide (such as Dual Magnum, Outlook, Warrant, Zidua, etc.) to the post-emergence application to provide control of late-season ger minating waterhemp.

There are also many herbicide premixes that have both a residual and foliar herbicide in combination. Using one of these products, a post-emergence residual application can then follow our earlier preemergence application in soybeans. This weed management tactic is often referred to as an overlapping residual. It allows little, if any, time for waterhemp to emerge throughout the growing season. An overlapping residual program has obvious benefits when trying to manage the prevalence of herbicide-resistant waterhemp.

While commodity prices may not always encourag e additional investments in our soybean crop, we need to realize weed management is a syst e m t h a t r e q u i r e s f o r wa r d thinking. Each of the female waterhemp plants that emerge through the soybean canopy will produce an average of 250,000 seeds. If all of the seeds from a single female plant emerge the next season,

they will most likely produce a combined total of 31.25 billion seeds.

We have made great strides

in changing our herbicide use patterns in the last few years to manage this weed. Effective management of waterhemp requires dedicated forward thinking and effort. Anything less will give the advantage to waterhemp.

So, think about your future self on this upcoming Independence Day. Are you confi-

dent that your weed management plan has the residual power it needs to go the distance? If not, contact your local FS Crop Specialist to develop a plan that will.

David Powell, Ph.D., serves as GROWMARK’s weed science technical manager. His email address is dpowell@growmark.com.

Make FAST STOP your first stop.

Whether you are looking to fill your tank or your coffee cup, look to your locally owned and operated FFAST AS STOP.® With nearly 300 convenient locations across the AST Midwest, chances are, we’re right on the wayy.

www w.efaststop.com

TM

©2013 GROWMARK, Inc. A14130

Wet weather creates concerns about alfalfa quality Illinois Forage Expo June 23

FarmWeek • Page 8 • Monday, June 1, 2015

Wet weather in recent weeks slowed the first cutting of alfalfa.

It also raises quality concerns for farmers who plan to

BY DANIEL GRANT

Mike Kreke, a longtime farmer and Effingham County Farm Bureau member, displays some alfalfa hay on his farm. Kreke believes the quality of the crop was good, although it suffered some winter damage. Wet weather in recent weeks delayed alfalfa harvest and created quality concerns in some portions of the state. (Photo by Daniel Grant)

harvest the crop for dry hay, according to Kendall Guither, a farmer from Walnut (Bureau County) and president of the Illinois Forage and Grassland Council.

“Anybody trying to do dry hay is going to have quality issues,” Guither said. “It’s going to be a delayed harvest, and it’s going to start getting overly mature. The feed value will go down, accordingly.”

The first cutting of alfalfa was 29 percent complete statewide as of the first of last week, 7 percent behind the average pace, the National Agricultural Statistics Service Illinois field office reported.

That increased considerably from the previous week, though, as just 10 percent of the crop was harvested as of May 17.

“Those doing haylage or some sort of wet harvest have been able to start, get some harvested and there’s a few who finished (first cutting),” Guither said. “Wet harvest is going well. Dry harvest has been a real struggle.”

Mike Kreke, an Effingham County Farm Bureau member

who milked cows for 40 years and now raises fat steers, prepared an alfalfa field for harvest late last month.

He expected a quality harvest, although there was some winter damage in his crop.

“The weather has been wreaking havoc, but it should be pretty good quality,” Kreke said. “Some of the older alfalfa got frozen out. The younger alfalfa didn’t have as big of crowns, so it didn’t freeze up as much.”

Overall, Guither believes the alfalfa crop came out of winter in decent shape in northern Illinois.

Meanwhile, most small grains were in good shape last week across the state. The winter wheat crop last week was rated 59 percent good to excellent, 31 percent fair and 10 percent poor to very poor, while oat conditions were rated 73 percent good to excellent, 22 percent fair and 5 percent poor to very poor.

Pasture conditions last week were even better at 83 percent good to excellent, 15 percent fair and just 2 percent poor.

Farmers and industry professionals can see the latest advancements in forage equipment and field demonstrations this month at the Illinois Forage Expo.

The annual event, which also features a quality hay and haylage contest, will take

place June 23 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Willow Valley Dairy Farm, 4389 S. Willow Road in Kent.

For more information about the Forage Expo, visit the website {illinoisforage. org} or call Dave Gentry at 309-846-8320.

ELECTRIFYING SAFETY LESSON

Laura Dotson with Adams Electric Cooperative demonstrates electrical safety to a group of Brown County fourth graders during Farm Bureau’s recent annual Farm Safety Day. More than 400 prekindergarten through fourth-grade students from Brown County Elementary School and St. Mary School attended. Students also learned about sun, tractor, ATV, livestock and fire safety, and received Ag Mags. A grant provided by Illinois Farm Bureau and COUNTRY Financial helped make the event possible. (Photo by Kathy Knight, Brown County Farm Bureau manager)

Looking for a Convenient Supply of DEF? Tuesday: • FarmWeek: “The Early Word” • Frank Butterfield, Landmarks Illinois: preservation of historic landmarks • Bryce Anderson, DTN Wednesday: • Evelyn Sanguinetti, Illinois Lt. Gov.: Homegrown By Heroes program • Cyndi Cook, Illinois Farm Bureau photographic services

manager: photo contest • Scott Schirmer, Illinois Department of Agriculture: emerald ash borer in Illinois • Rex Gray, Stone Seed: current crop conditions Thursday: • Adam Sharp, Ohio Farm Bureau: new farm nutrient management laws in Ohio • Dave Loos, Illinois Corn Growers Association: Renewable Fuels Standard update Friday: • Duncan Hay, Northeast Region of the National Park Service: history of canals and transportation

Lowest Prices & Unmatched Value - Guaranteed!

When it comes to the success of your operation, you can rely on your local FS energy specialists. If your new equipment uses diesel exhaust fluid (DEF), your local FS Co-op and participating FAST STOP® locations have just what you need – convenient supply. From packaged or bulk DEF to even the dispensing equipment, FS has the products and the knowledgeable experts to help you go further.

FS – The people and the products to take you further. Go further with FS.

Hawaii Four-Island Agricultural Tour

Travel with others in th e AG Industry !

13 days from $1999* Departs Wednesdays & Fridays in January 2016. Experience a true tropical paradise with perfect climate, stunning scenery and exquisite beaches while visiting the islands of Oahu, Kauai, Maui and the “Big Island” of Hawaii. This itinerary also includes special sightseeing for those in the Agricultural industry.

Explore Pearl Harbor and world-famous Waikiki Beach on Oahu; enjoy an entertaining cruise on the Wailua River to romantic Fern Grotto and visit a Noni Fruit Plantation, considered to be a magnificent healing fruit on Kauai; visit Lahaina, the old whaling capital and Maui Gold Pineapple Plantation on Maui; and on the “Big Island,” a Macadamia nut factory, Orchid Nursery; Volcanoes National Park, Fish Farm, Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation and more. Your vacation will be fully escorted by a friendly Polynesian Tour Director who will provide an insider’s perspective of the islands and also includes beachfront or centrally located hotels, inter-island flights, baggage handling, transfers, sightseeing and special events.

TM

*

PPDO. Plus $199 tax/service/government fees. Add-on airfare available.

Go further. ©2012 GROWMARK, Inc. A13242

Scan the QR code to visit us on the web or go to www.GofurtherwithFS.com

Call for Details!

877-280-9343 Please mention promo code EF09139

C

ASS-MORGAN — Smartphone seminar, 6 p.m. June 8 at Praireland FS in Jacksonville. Tricia Campbell, Heartland Community College, will share tricks and tips for utilizing smartphones. Call 245-6833 to register.

ANE — Grower/buyer meeting, 3:30 to 6 p.m. June 9 at the Farm Bureau office. This event is part of the ongoing Kane County Food Hub Feasibility Study. For reservations, email tansleymatthew@co.kane.il.us

by Tuesday.

EE — Farm Bureau issues a 100 Member Challenge in honor of its 100th anniversary. Sign up five

K L

Field days announced

Crops and pests comprise the focus of field days organized by the University of Illinois crop sciences department, U of I Extension, Southern Illinois University (SIU) and Western Illinois University (WIU). Speakers will discuss the latest on current crop and pest issues along with research. Some events require registration to reserve a meal.

Dates, times and contact information include: • June 24, 8 a.m., U of I weed day, Urbana, contact Doug Maxwell at 217265-0344 or dmaxwell@ illinois.edu; • June 25, noon, WIU, Macomb, contact Mark Bernards at 309-313-5917 or ml-bernards@wiu.edu; • July 9, 9 a.m., U of I, DeKalb, contact Russ Higgins at 815-274-1343 or rahiggin@illinois.edu; • July 9, 9 a.m., U of I/SIU, Belleville, contact Ron Krausz at 618-5664761 or rkrausz@siu.edu; • July 22, 9 a.m., Orr Center, Perry, contact Mike Vose at 271-2364911 or mvose@illinois. edu; • July 28, 8 a.m., U of I, Monmouth, contact Angie Peltier at 309-734-5161 or apeltier@illinois.edu; • Aug. 5, 8 a.m., U of I, Brownstown, contact Robert Bellm at 618-4273349 or rcbellm@illinois. edu; • Aug. 6, 9 a.m., U of I, Simpson, contact John Pike at 618-695-2790 or jpike@illinois.edu; • Aug. 20, 7 a.m., U of I agronomy day, Urbana; and • Sept. 10, 9 a.m., U of I, Ewing, contact Mark Lamczyk at 618-439-3178 or lamczyk@illinois.edu.

Page 9 • Monday, June 1, 2015 • FarmWeek

or more M members and receive $100. Completed membership applications and dues must be received at the Farm Bureau office between now and Dec. 31 to be eligible for prize money.

• Irrigation growers’ meeting, 1 p.m. June 8 at Arnie’s Happy Spot, Deer Grove. Lauren Lurkins, Illinois Farm Bureau director of natural and environmental resources, will speak. Call 857-3531 by Thursday to register or for more information.

• “Farmland” movie showing, 6:30 p.m. June 17 at Sterling Theater. A farmer panel discussion will follow the movie. A canned food donation will be accepted.

ACOUPIN — Defensive driving course, 10 a.m. June 9-10 at the Farm Bureau building.

M

Members 55 years and older are invited to attend. Doug Sommer will instruct. Lunch will be provided. Cost is $15.

Call 854-2571 to register by June 8.

ASON — Farm safety day camp, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Fulton County Fairground for parents and children age 6 and older. Call 309-543-3308 for reservations

by June 8.

ENARD — Member/Prairieland FS patron appreciation day, 4 to 7 p.m. June 21 at the Sangamon County Fairground. Event will include free admission to the fair, dinner and live/silent auction. Call 632-2217 for reservations by June 12.

ERCER — Summer market outlook, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Farm Bureau building. Dan Zwicker,

M M M

Consolidated Grain & Barge, will speak. Call 582-5116 for more information.

• Women’s marketing workshop, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. June 16 at GROWMARK Distribution Center in Alpha. Naomi Blohm, Stewart-Peterson, will speak. Lunch will be provided.

Call 582-5116 or email mcfb1 @frontiernet.net by June 10 for reservations.

EORIA — Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training class, 9 a.m. June 10 at the Farm Bureau building. Joe Varda, Mid Illini Educational Consultants, will instruct. Participants will be required to take the CDL test at the driver’s license facility. Cost is $45 for members and $55 for nonmembers. Call 686-7070 by Friday for reservations.

ANGAMON — Ladies’ bus trip to St. Charles,

P S

Mo., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 10.

Cost is $25 for members and $35 for nonmembers. Email jwebb@ sangamonfb.org or call 753-5200 for reservations and more information by Wednesday.

• Ag exploration day, 9 a.m. to noon June 26 at Sangamon County Fairground in New Berlin for children ages 5 to 12. Bring a nonperishable food item to donate for the Harvest for All campaign. Call 7535200 or email jwebb@sanga monfb.org for reservations or more information by June 15.

ARREN-HENDERSON — Maple City Antique Tractor Association tractor drive, leaving at 8 a.m. Saturday from Russell and Maxine Stewart’s farm. Cost is $25. Proceeds will benefit Warren-Henderson ag education programs. Call 734-9401 for more information.

W

ILSOYADVISOR IL LSO SOYAD ADVISOR VIISOR RS Y A D D L FIE TUESDAY

IF YOU GROW SOYBEANS, THEN YOU CAN’T MISS OUT

AUGUST AUGUST 4

HINCKLEY H8:30 INCKLE Y AA.M. .M. - 3 PP.M. .M. M

Hear about the technology and practices that are making soybean growers more profitable.

REGISTER REG ISTER AT AT IILSOY.ORG/FIELDDAYS LSOYY.ORG/FIELDDAAYS

WEDNESDAY AUGUST AUGUST 5

VILLA VIL8:30 LAAA.M..M.GROVE G- ROVE 3 PP.M. .M.

TOPICS INCLUDE: Foliar Feeding: A Mid-Season Strategy Adjuvants: Making Your Foliar Applications Work UAVs: Your Eyes in the Sky Going for 100: Achieving High-Yield Soybeans Getting Soybeans off to a Good Start Key to Higher Double-Crop Soybean Yields (Benton Event Only)

ISASOY0515500

THURSDAY AAUGUST UGUST 6

BENTON B8:30ENT OP.M.N AA.M. .M. - 3 P.M.

FarmWeek • Page 10 • Monday, June 1, 2015

Make data king in farm management decisions As all of us who work in agriculture are keenly aware, no two growing seasons are the same. This makes the challenge of farming more exciting, and well, challenging. It also keeps us all on our toes when it comes to diagnostic issues and developing theories, and Lance Ruppert then making decisions to combat those issues.

The agronomy landscape is full of new products, equipment and technology services. The monetary risk

BY LANCE RUPPERT

associated with farming is as high as ever with input costs that have remained fairly stable and commodity prices moving steadily downward during the last 12 months.

Managing increased risk with crop insurance programs, more sophisticated grain marketing programs and overall operational efficiency is needed to succeed. As the business of farming continues to change, one basic aspect of a farm business remains the need to keep and maintain accurate records.

Those records are imperative for analyzing your overall business. As you fine-tune your business management,

Ridge Road Vineyard hosting meeting The University of Illinois Extension and Darrell Thurston of Ridge Road Vineyard announced a free twilight meeting from 6 to 8 p.m. June 15 at the vineyard, 1653 Ridge Road, Pulaski. The preregistration deadline is June 12.

Several years ago, Thurston developed a commercial-scale blackberry and wine grape operation on more than 4 acres. He will discuss his marketing and production operation as well as demonstrate his outdoor packing system used during blackberry harvest.

Thurston sells products on the wholesale market as well as direct marketing at area farmers’ markets. U of I Extension specialists also will discuss wine grape and blackberry management.

Register by calling 618-382-2662. For more information about the twilight meeting, contact U of I’s Bronwyn Aly at baly@illinois.edu and 618-382-2662, or Nathan Johanning at njohann@illinois.edu and 618-687-1727.

To reach the vineyard from Ullin, travel south on old Illinois 51 to Pulaski. At the south edge of Pulaski, turn left or east onto Rose Hill Drive and drive about 2.5 miles. Rose Hill Drive becomes Ridge Road.

being able to analyze costs and revenues by farm is very important.

The ultimate goal involves the ability to look at soil types, agronomic practices and seed genetics to determine what has given you the best success rate, and then better predict what will give you the best chance to succeed in the future.

There has been a lot of buzz about Big Data and the potential to understand things at the aggregate level to predict future outcomes. For now, let’s leave that alone and talk about small data. This would

unique situation, ideas and questions. You can do simple testing looking at one variable and final yield using a weigh wagon, or you may have multiple variables and map everything out with precision farming tools.

Either way, learning is the key. Engage with your local FS member company to see how they can help you test new concepts and products to see if they fit your operation.

be data that is specific to a farm, a field, a management zone, and even a product or practice.

Basic testing of products and agronomic practices are great ways to better understand the cause and effect they can have on your bottom line. Testing two or three new products or practices each year will help keep your farm on the cutting edge and challenge you to think more broadly about where success may occur.

The best thing about this is that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Everyone has a

Lance Ruppert serves as GROWMARK’s director of strategic agronomy marketing. His email address is lruppert @growmark.com.

The majority of the corn crop (87 percent) and more than one-third of beans (38 percent) emerged as of the first of last week.

“We’ve been oscillating between wet weeks and dry weeks, and cold weeks and warm weeks,” said Jim Angel, state climatologist with the Illinois State Water Survey. “The Jim Angel warm weather kind of won out in the end.”

The average temperature for May was 2.3 degrees above average with four days left in the month.

Meanwhile, concerns about dry pockets in the state eased somewhat in recent weeks.

Average precipitation for the month, as of May 28, totaled 4.3 inches, about a half-inch above normal.

“There are a few dry spots, but overall, we look to be in pretty good shape in

terms of soil moisture,” Angel said.

Topsoil moisture last week was rated 82 percent adequate, 15 percent surplus and just 3 percent short. The scattered dry patches mostly were in the east southeast, west and west southwest sectors of the state.

The condition of the corn crop reflected good growing weather in recent weeks as the crop was rated 80 percent good to excellent, 17 percent fair and 3 percent poor to very poor.

Looking ahead, the forecast calls for good growing conditions to continue in Illinois.

The forecast the next two weeks call for temperatures to remain on the warm side. But the summer forecast calls for an increased chance of below-average temperatures in Illinois with rainfall near average.

“It all points to a fairly mild summer into fall, not unlike last year,” Angel said. “We aren’t seeing an increased risk of drought.”

Planting winds down; forecast favorable for crops

BY DANIEL GRANT FarmWeek

Concerns about the weather-induced slow start to planting last month seem like a distant memory.

Farmers last week planted more soybeans and nearly all the crops now are in the ground.

Planting as of the first of last week was 97 percent complete for corn, 4 percent ahead of the average pace, and 69 percent complete for beans, 12 percent ahead of the average pace in Illinois.

Cool temperatures, which featured some frost earlier in the month, were replaced by warmer temperatures and rain that promoted crop development.

IFB photo contest to picture Illinois

Bring rural life into focus by taking and submitting pictures for the annual Illinois Farm Bureau member photography contest.

Picture Illinois, the 2015 Member Photo Contest, is open to IFB members and their families. Photos must have been taken in Illinois in 2013 or after by amateur photographers.

Participants can submit photos in one of three categories, including “Looking Up,” “Fairs n’ Festivals” and “Hidden History.”

The grand prize winner will receive $150, while three, firstplace winners will each receive $75; three, second-place winners will each receive $25; and the photo selected as Members’ Choice at IFB’s 2015 Annual Meeting in December will receive $50.

The contest runs from June 1 to Nov. 1. Winners will be announced in the spring 2016 issue of Partners magazine and in FarmWeek in January 2016.

Employees and immediate family members of Illinois Farm Bureau and its affiliated companies are not eligible.

To view previous winning photos, obtain the complete contest rules and to enter online, go to {ilfbphotos.org}.

For questions, or to obtain the contest rules and entry form by mail, contact Dawn Heggie at 309-557-2293 or dheggie@ilfb.org.

El Nino = Big crops?

Over the past few weeks, much has been said about signs that an El Nino is finally emerging. There have been persistent calls during the last year that an El Nino was under way, only to see the conditions fade.

Sea surface temperatures started to warm again last fall, only to subside during our winter. But they started warming again this spring, enough to have many weather agencies declare an El Nino is finally under way.

The popular wisdom is that El Nino brings good growing conditions to the U.S. And generally it does. On average, the corn yield is 1.6 percent higher than the trend we use with a range from 8 percent under to 10 percent above.

The average would imply a 166-bushel yield for the 2015 crop.

But the corn yield is not consistently above trend during an El Nino event because it is not the only feature that guides our growing season weather pattern.

Another key feature weather forecasters watch is the PDO, the Pacific Decadal Oscillation.

The PDO refers to the presence of warm or cold waters in the northern Pacific, a feature that helps guide the jet stream over the U.S. The warm/cold patterns tend to persist during 10 year periods before switching.

One forecaster we follow has looked at a couple of scenarios involving El Nino and the warm PDO. Of particular interest to them during the last year has

been the unusually warm pool of water just off our west coast. It has been guiding the jet stream up over Alaska before dipping south into our intermountain region. Recently, Alaska had its earliest 90degree day ever, in part because of the impact this has had on the jet stream. Given that jet streams tend to move north with the summer, it could lead to a warmer, drier pattern in the Southeast and along the Ohio River Valley this summer.

There’s another scenario that looks at weak spring El Ninos that strengthen during the summer. These potentially lead to a ridge over the Midwest during the growing season.

On average, this company has pinpointed corn yields during these alternative El Nino scenarios that are just under trend with a range from 5 percent under to 10 percent over.

One thing that tends to filter through all of the El Nino events is that there are a number of years with yields coming in below trend. But in reading the daily discourse of “market chatter,” one would think that an El Nino all but guarantees there will be a good crop. That is simply not the case.

The timing, the strength and other weather factors play into the picture as well. But to listen to the current discourse, one would think a good crop is all but assured.

That leads us to believe there’s not a lot of risk premium in corn prices, nor soybeans, at this time. Depending on how the El Nino and the growing season evolve, that should at least lead to weather scare rallies, if not a change in the larger expectations if the crops do not have the potential the trade wants to believe they do today.

AgriVisor endorses crop insurance by

AgriVisor LLC 1701 N. Towanda Avenue PO Box 2500 Bloomington IL 61702-2901 309-557-3147 AgriVisor LLC is not liable for any damages which anyone may sustain by reason of inaccuracy or inadequacy of information provided herein, any error of judgment involving any projections, recommendations, or advice or any other act of omission.

Policies issued by COUNTRY Mutual Insurance Company®, Bloomington, Illinois AgriVisor Hotline Number

309-557-2274

Corn Strategy

ü2014 crop: Prices still look poised to complete the downside correction that started in late December. The final low shouldn’t be much, if any, lower than last week’s $3.48 low on July futures. Once complete, the market should be positioned to have an extended period of better prices. Other than locking in basis, we are not interested in pricing corn. ü2015 crop: Given the larger cyclic parameters, the longterm technical outlook suggests better prices should come. Hold off making sales. vFundamentals: With 92 percent of the crop planted, the focus will turn to the potential for the new crop.

The high initial crop rating, 74 percent good/excellent, was expected. But it doesn’t guarantee a big crop. In 2012, the crop ratings were more than 70 percent into June 1, and we know how that crop turned out. Even as moisture conditions have improved in the Northern Plains and northwestern part of the Corn Belt, they are starting to deteriorate in the eastern Corn Belt and Southeast.

Page 11 • Monday, June 1, 2015 • FarmWeek Cents per bu.

Soybean Strategy

ü2014 crop: Sentiments regarding large supplies have kept prices on the defensive, but Argentine labor problems, good demand for U.S. soybeans/products and the new EPA announcement have been stabilizing forces. An important low is due. At the moment, the best strategy is to lock up the basis, but keep the futures component of pricing open. ü2015 crop: New-crop supply attitudes, for the U.S. and South America, continue to weigh on prices. But those large supplies are far from secure. Larger technical features imply better marketing opportunities should come this summer. vFundamentals: Newcrop supply talk may be the biggest feature keeping prices on the defensive. Planting has gone well with 61 percent of the area planted. But if the rains in the Southern Plains, Mid-South and southern Corn Belt continue, some acreage may be designated prevent plant. The new EPA biodiesel

mandates should be a positive for soybean oil, a sector that accounts for 25 percent of our domestic soybean oil consumption.

Wheat Strategy

ü2014 crop: Old-crop sales should be completed. Table the idea of making any catchup sales for now. ü2015 crop: We prefer to store new crop for an expected middle/late summer rally if you have on-farm storage. If not, use rallies to price a portion of your intended harvest sales. vFundamentals: Traders are going back and forth about competing weather ideas with some more bullish on wet

weather than others. Few know what to expect out of the upcoming harvest in Kansas.

Quality will almost certainly be an issue in Oklahoma and Texas after recent heavy rains.

Exports have come back into focus after last week’s Egyptian tender. Black Sea wheat is still the cheapest on the block. Even Europe is having trouble competing with Russian wheat, which means U.S. exporters are struggling, too. But the potential for a softer dollar in months ahead should slowly begin to boost U.S. trade. As residual supplier to world, the U.S. would benefit from weather hiccups abroad.

FarmWeek • Page 12 • Monday, June 1, 2015

Working together for U.S. biofuels While bipartisanship can sometimes seem like a rare element in today’s political environment, not everything divides along such lines. We come from different parties and different states, but we are both committed to working together to achieve a healthy economy and create an environment that fosters job growth and domestic energy security. Despite the bipartisan coalition around these goals, continued delays and REP. CHERI stubborn inaction REP. KRISTI BUSTOS NOEM

by Washington bureaucrats have needlessly jeopardized renewable fuels and our road to energy independence.

The renewable fuel sector, including biofuels like ethanol and biodiesel, support more than 850,000 jobs across the country, producing $184.5 billion in economic output for our families and communities.

As a result of biofuel refining and the research and development that goes along with it, rural communities, including many in Illinois and South Dakota, have seen more higher paying jobs come to town and greater economic activity. This thriving homegrown energy industry is powering local businesses, supporting our friends and neighbors, and creating a fluster of activity in rural America. Moreover, it opens yet another marketplace for our corn and soybean producers.

Of course, the increased levels of biofuel production benefit more than the communities in which they are refined and produced. Today, American-produced ethanol makes up about 10 percent of our fuel supply and acts as the only viable alternative to gasoline available that can provide true competition. That means lower prices for all of us at the pump.

Moreover, increasing the availability of “Made

in America” biofuels plays a critical role in improving our national security. Without North American energy independence, countries like Iran, Russia and Venezuela can manipulate the marketplace, using energy as a political weapon against us and our allies.

Meanwhile, many believe some of the beneficiaries of our Middle East oil purchases could be using revenues to fund terrorist activities and organizations. Our national security depends on our energy security.

Last year, we sent a letter to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding a new Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) rule. This rule tells refineries how many gallons of renewable fuels ought to be blended into our fuel supply, giving both farmers and consumers more certainty and perhaps greater price stability. Our concern when writing the letter was that the EPA was planning to roll back our commitment to greater energy independence and close the door on increased renewable fuel production.

The long-delayed proposal announced Friday is better than the initial proposal. But I am disappointed to see it still falls short and has potential to hurt Illinois farmers, rural communities and our state’s economy. The good news is that these proposals are not final.

We must maintain a strong RFS that sends a clear message: The United States is committed to decreasing our reliance on foreign oil and achieving North American energy independence.

Now is not the time to reverse course on an energy policy that has been, and will continue to be, successful. Biofuels enable us to take control of our energy future, bolster national security and support hundreds of thousands of jobs across the country in the process. That’s good for Illinois.

It’s good for South Dakota. And it’s good for our nation.

U.S. Reps. Cheri Bustos is a Democrat representing the Illinois 17th District and Kristi Noem is a Republican representing South Dakota.

Life-changing developments bring national energy security

Perhaps it took two or three years, but it seems like overnight. We are not going crazy worrying about a possible energy shortage.

We had long gas lines in the ‘70s. Prices skyrocketed.

We were begging Saudi Arabia to pump more gas in the ‘90s.

But now with war and complete turmoil in the Middle East, we don’t seem to care. We care about the people, but we’re not worried about the price of gasoline. In fact, recently the price of petroleum hit an eight-month low.

Our energy security has improved dramatically.

With the use of new drilling proceJOHN dures called fracking, we are extracting BLOCK oil and gas that we didn’t even know was there before. Canada is pumping oil and shipping it to the U.S. We should be building the Keystone Pipeline to deliver it, but President Obama has not approved the pipeline. Mexico is ramping up its oil and gas production.

Don’t forget about the fact that 10 percent of our gasoline is ethanol.

According to a new report released by the Renewable Fuels Association and conducted by ABF Economics, here is what the study says: “Ethanol is the most economically competitive motor fuel in the world. U.S. ethanol has emerged as the lowest cost transportation fuel and octane source in the world.” I might add that it is clean burning and renewable.

The study found ethanol to cost between 30 cents and 60 cents per gallon less than petroleum. That means when you fill your car up, you will be saving 10 cents per gallon just because your fuel is 10 percent ethanol.

Not to dwell on it, but we don’t hear much about the utilization of corn to make ethanol driving up the cost of food — not with a big crop and the price of corn cut in half. Looks like we have enough corn to use some of it to make fuel.

We have witnessed life-changing developments in the energy industry. The change has happened so fast. We are not going to be held hostage by others who used to control the world energy supply. We have our own. We can limit our involvement in the Middle East because we don’t have to protect our energy supply.

It’s a new day!

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

Using social media to answer tough questions about agriculture, farmers Through social media, America’s farmers and ranchers explain why they do certain things when raising animals for food. This communication is not just one way. Facebook posts from the farm, tweets from the tractor seat and blogs from the “back 40” allow members of the CYNDIE nonfarming SIREKIS public to ask questions on everything from how today’s food is grown to how it is processed and eventually brought to market.

Although a growing number of farmers use social media to interact with consumers, trepidation about answering tough

ag-related questions causes some to shy away from using this valuable communications tool. But it doesn’t have to be that way, according to a couple of social media experts who teamed up recently to share time-tested tips with Farm Bureau members.

“Be authentic in telling your story,” said Lyndsey Murphy, American Farm Bureau Federation digital media specialist.

“Speak for you and your farm, not the whole of agriculture.”

If you’re not sure how to answer a question, it’s perfectly OK to say you don’t know, but will find the answer, she advised.

Murphy finds that using social media to build relationships yields great rewards because everyone is on the same playing field with similar

opportunities for interaction.

But it does take time.

“Using beautiful visuals and an authentic voice to share what we as agriculturalists know and love” is the sweet spot for many farmers active in social media, Murphy said.

She’s found that visuals are a tremendous help in telling one’s farm story because “people might not always believe what they read but they always believe what they can see with their own two eyes.”

For many in agriculture, deep connections to the farm make it hard to hear some comments without feeling judged or that the other person is misinformed. This happens online and in person, notes Janice Person, director of online outreach at Monsanto.

“Reacting the wrong way can

shut down any opportunity for dialogue, but when we listen from a place of truly trying to understand others, we learn a lot and others notice that we are open to their thoughts,” Person said.

She tries to ask three broad questions to gain understanding before offering her experience or perspective.

When you choose to use social media, understanding the public nature of it and the possibilities for controversy can be useful in shaping your presence, Person said. She’s found that being proactive on a few key components can be helpful.

Having a comment policy on your blog or Facebook page can help establish “rules” to be referred to if controversy surfaces. Person advises social media newbies to always con-

sider who they want to share information with before posting.

If controversy surfaces in response to your posts, Person says how you respond should depend on your goals, not your emotions. When criticism is honest, it is important to step back and listen to different perspectives, she said.

You can also take time to respond rather than allowing the perceived need for immediacy drive you into an emotiondriven, fast-paced back and forth. Taking time to think through how to reply is acceptable. Talking through how to respond with a trusted friend can help provide perspective and clarity.

Cyndie Sirekis serves as AFBF director of internal communications.