Farmweek october 20 2014

Got 1915-50 farm photos? The IFB Family of Companies Archives wants to make copies. page 2

Landowners in cash rent agreements will not have to select ARC or PLC under new farm bill rules. page 7

Price relief at the fuel pump could continue with prices predicted to drop even lower. page 9

Livestock farmers face new state CAFO rules Monday, October 20, 2014

BY KAY SHIPMAN FarmWeek

Livestock farmers need to set aside any preconceived notions about new state livestock regulations and be prepared for the new normal in Illinois.

The Illinois Pollution Control Board rewrote state rules for Concentrated Animal Feed Operations (CAFOs) because of federal changes that required state regulations to be at least as restrictive as federal ones, according to Ted Funk, consulting engineer with the Illinois Pork Producers Association and a retired agricultural engineer at the University of Illinois. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) enforces those new rules.

Farmers may learn about the new CAFO rules at seven information meetings scheduled from Nov. 10-20 across the state (see accompanying schedule).

Some of the regulatory changes reflect differences in the livestock industry itself, Funk said. For example, the law changed the definitions of small, medium and large livestock operations, he noted.

Previously, some regulatory calculations multiplied younger and older animals by different factors; however, that has changed. Before, more dairies raised heifers along with cows, but today many larger dairy operations have their heifers raised on other farms, Funk explained.

“Some livestock operations may be considered a different size because the rules and definitions have changed,” Funk said.

Periodicals: Time Valued

See CAFO, page 2

Two sections Volume 42, No. 42

IFB, IPPA to host seven informational meetings next month Livestock farmers will learn about the new state rules for Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFO) at seven meetings hosted by the Illinois Farm Bureau and Illinois Pork Producers Association (IPPA). All livestock farms — not just those required to obtain National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permits — will be impacted.

All farmers may attend at no charge, but reservations are required at least one week before the meeting. Contact the county Farm Bureau coordinating the meeting location.

Information will be presented from 4 to 6 p.m., followed

by a meal at 6:30 p.m.

Dates and locations are: • Nov. 10, Pike County Farm Bureau, Pittsfield; • Nov. 12, Sangamon County Farm Bureau, Springfield; • Nov. 13, Nashville Community Center, Nashville; • Nov. 17, Effingham Knights of Columbus Hall, Effingham; • Nov. 18, Knox Agri Center, Galesburg; • Nov. 19, DeKalb County Farm Bureau, Sycamore; and • Nov. 20, Evergreen FS auditorium, Bloomington.

FEEDING TIME

Kathleen Ruhter gives an extra scoop of feed to one of about 30 bison raised on their Douglas County farm. It takes about 30 months before a bison becomes market ready at about 1,000 to 1,200 pounds. To view a video of the bison in action, go to {youtube.com} and search “Prairie Rim Ranch.” See story on page 3. (Photo and video by Ken Kashian)

Dow receives final approval for Enlist Duo

BY DEANA STROISCH FarmWeek

Farmers will have another option to control weeds in corn and soybean fields next year.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) last week registered Dow AgroScience’s Enlist Duo herbicide for use with Enlist corn and soybeans — the final federal approval needed for the product.

USDA deregulated Enlist corn and soybean traits on Sept. 17.

In the next few weeks, Dow Agro-

Sciences plans to announce its intention to commercially develop the product in 2015.

“Now that we have the EPA’s decision and published decision documents, we will incorporate those as we finalize our plans,” Dow AgroSciences said in a statement.

The herbicide contains glyphosate and the choline salt of 2,4-D. According to EPA, choline salt of 2,4-D is less prone to drift and volatilization than its other forms, but isn’t registered for weed control uses.

During the review process, which took years, Illinois Farm Bureau submitted several letters of support for the product.

“Herbicide-tolerant seeds are a vital tool for United States farmers to remain the world leader in the production of food, grain and renewable fuels,” IFB President Richard Guebert Jr. wrote to USDA in February. “We must continue to improve and explore science-based biotechnology. I applaud See Enlist, page 2

www.facebook.com/illfarmbureau

Quick Takes

FarmWeek • Page 2 • Monday, October 20, 2014

FARM BILL WEBINARS CONTINUE — Interested in learning more about new farm bill programs? University of Illinois Department of Agricultural and Consumer Economics professors continue providing webinars every Friday during October.

Jonathan Coppess and Gary Schnitkey, along with associate professor Nick Paulson, lead the weekly farm bill decision-making webinars from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

Farmers can register at no cost, but preregistration is required at {farmdoc.illinois.edu/webinars/}. The website also features information provided during three previous webinars.

TEEN DRIVER SHORT COURSE OFFERED — The first 12 months after teens receive their driver’s license poses the greatest danger for them, according to the National Safety Council.

That’s why COUNTRY Financial encourages teenagers to complete a safe driving short course at {simplydrive.com} and sign a Family Driving Agreement this week during National Teen Driver Safety Week.

In exchange for completing the Simply Drive course and signing the driving agreement, teen drivers may be eligible to save money on their auto insurance.

COUNTRY developed the Simply Drive program in 2009 after a spike in the number of fatal accidents involving teenagers who were distracted while driving. The program encourages parents to talk to their teen drivers about the dangers of distracted driving.

Simply Drive also supplies educators with safe driving training materials to help students learn about the importance of staying focused on the road.

BIKE RIDE RAISES IAITC FUNDS — Forty-five cyclists raised $40,259 for Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom (IAITC) during the recent 19th IAA Foundation bike ride fundraiser.

The amount represents a 9 percent increase compared to 2013. Cyclists rode 240 miles through five northern Illinois counties. They shared agriculture information with more than 4,000 students during school visits.

Planning continues for the 20th and final IAITC ride next year.

KLECKNER AWARD ANNOUNCED — London farmer Ian Pigott received the 2014 Kleckner Trade & Technology Advancement Award last week from Truth About Trade & Technology and CropLife International.

Awarded since 2007, the honor recognizes a global farmer who exemplifies strong leadership, vision and resolve in advancing the rights of all farmers to choose technology and tools that will improve the quality, quantity and availability of agricultural products around the world. The award bears the name of Dean Kleckner, chairman emeritus of the organization and former American Farm Bureau Federation president.

Pigott represents the fourth generation of his family to farm in the United Kingdom. He farms 1,800 acres located 20 miles from London. Pigott founded Open Farm Sunday in 2006 — a day on which more than 400 farmers throw open their gates and welcome consumers free of charge. So far, more than 1.5 million consumers have participated.

The farmer also launched TheFarmschool, during which school students visit his farm every week to learn about agriculture and the relationship between science and nature.

(ISSN0197-6680) Vol. 42 No. 42 October 20, 2014 Dedicated to improving the profitability of farming, and a higher quality of life for Illinois farmers.

FarmWeek is produced by the Illinois Farm Bureau.

FarmWeek is published each week, except the Mondays following Thanksgiving and Christmas, by the Illinois Agricultural Association, 1701 Towanda Avenue, P.O. Box 2901, Bloomington, IL 61701.

Illinois Agricultural Association assumes no responsibility for statements by advertisers or for products or services advertised in FarmWeek.

FarmWeek is published by the Illinois Agricultural Association for farm operator members. $3 from the individual membership fee of each of those members goes toward the production of FarmWeek.

“Farm, Family, Food” is used under license of the Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation.

Address subscription and advertising questions to FarmWeek, P.O. Box 2901, Bloomington, IL 61702-2901. Periodicals postage paid at Bloomington, Illinois, and at an additional mailing office.

POSTMASTER: Send change of address notices on Form 3579 to FarmWeek, P.O. Box 2901, Bloomington, IL 61702-2901. Farm Bureau members should send change of addresses to their local county Farm Bureau. © 2014 Illinois Agricultural Association

STAFF Editor Chris Anderson (canderson@ilfb.org) Legislative Affairs Editor Kay Shipman (kayship@ilfb.org) Agricultural Affairs Editor Deana Stroisch (dstroisch@ilfb.org) Senior Commodities Editor Daniel Grant (dgrant@ilfb.org) Editorial Assistant Margie Fraley (mfraley@ilfb.org) Business Production Manager Bob Standard (bstandard@ilfb.org) Advertising Sales Manager Richard Verdery (rverdery@ilfb.org) Classified sales coordinator Nan Fannin (nfannin@ilfb.org) Director of News and Communications Michael L. Orso (morso@ilfb.org) Advertising Sales Representatives Hurst and Associates, Inc. P.O. Box 6011, Vernon Hills, IL 60061 1-800-397-8908 (advertising inquiries only) Gary White - Northern Illinois Doug McDaniel - Southern Illinois Editorial phone number: 309-557-2239 Classified advertising: 309-557-3155 Display advertising: 1-800-676-2353

Lawmaker among thousands opposing rule Illinois Rep. C.D. Davidsmeyer, R-Jacksonville, recently urged federal agencies to withdraw a proposed rule defining “waters of the U.S.” Davidsmeyer said he submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers because the proposed rule could hurt the largely rural 100th district he serves and through which the Illinois River flows.

“I want to do anything I can to help,” Davidsmeyer said.

An excerpt from his comments: “I write to express my serious concerns with the proposed rule redefining the scope of federal power under the Clean Water Act (CWA), and ask you to return this rule to your agencies in order to address the legal, economic and scientific deficiencies of the proposal.

The proposed rule ... would expand federal CWA jurisdiction over nearly all areas with any hydrologic connection to

Your turn

Submit your comments at {www.regulations.gov} by Nov. 14. Reference Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-W-20110880.

navigable waters.

The rule would place features such as ditches, ephemeral drainages, ponds (natural or man-made), prairie potholes, seeps, flood plains and other occasionally or seasonally wet areas under federal jurisdiction.

These areas are the reserved domain of the state government, not the federal government.

Rather than providing clarity and certainty in identifying covered waters, the rule instead creates more confusion and will inevitably cause unnecessary litigation.

The rule relies heavily on undefined and vague concepts such as ‘riparian areas, landscape unit, floodplain, ordinaryhigh-water-mark’ as determined

by the agencies ‘best professional judgment’ and ‘aggregation.’

Most egregious is the fact that the rule throws into confusion extensive state regulation under various CWA programs.

Implementation of this rule will have significant implications on most if not all of the 14 statewide permits authorized and under the administration of the Division of Water Resources Management, Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

There is significant concern that additional federal revenue or assistance in the future to help meet the cost of this rule will not be forthcoming.

Expansion of federal jurisdiction under the Clean Water Act will in fact be an unfunded mandate on the public and private sectors. Much of the anticipated cost of this rule would be financed from state and municipal resources and will divert limited resources from other essential public services.”

Bring historic photos, memorabilia to annual meeting

Illinois Farm Bureau members attending December’s Annual Meeting in Chicago can help write another chapter in the organization’s history.

In preparation for Illinois Farm Bureau’s Centennial Celebration next year, the IFB Family of Companies Archives needs copies of your vintage Illinois farm and Farm Bureaurelated photos from 1915-50.

Allison Carr, corporate archivist, will host a booth in the Hospitality Area during annual meeting where photos can be dropped off for scanning Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.

For scanning purposes, pho-

CAFO

“The rules are a lot more prescriptive than they used to be,” Funk continued. “But if farmers don’t wade through the rules and understand how their operations are affected by the changes, they may get caught on a technicality. We don’t want that to happen. We know livestock producers want to be in compliance.”

Funk recommended farmers know which regulatory agencies oversee different sections of the rules. He also noted livestockrelated regulations fall under Continued from page 1

Enlist

Do you know where this photo was taken? What can you tell us about the equipment being used? The Illinois Farm Bureau Family of Companies Archives welcomes your help in solving this history mystery! Send your information to archives@ilfb.org. (IFB archive photo)

tos should be unframed and not behind glass. Original photos will then be ready for pickup before you leave annual meeting.

Memorabilia items from

IAA, Illinois Farm Bureau, Illinois Farm Supply Company, FS, Prairie Farms and COUNTRY Insurance may also be donated at the archives booth.

several agencies.

IEPA’s Bureau of Water has authority over National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits. IEPA also has authority over certain operational rules for all livestock facilities. One example of a new rule that may affect a farm of any size is more stringent requirements for temporary manure stacks.

Livestock facility construction standards, which are part of the state Livestock Management Facilities Act (LMFA), are found

in Illinois Pollution Control Board rules and regulations.

The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) Bureau of Environmental Programs has jurisdiction over the LMFA, which hasn’t changed. That bureau also oversees new and expanded livestock facilities and certification of livestock managers, and holds some jurisdiction over larger facilities’ manure management plans.

IDOA’s Bureau of Animal Health and Welfare oversees dead animal disposal.

you for your history of doing just that.

Biotechnology continues to increase the sustainability of U.S farmers and shows the world how we can do more with less.”

Andrew Walmsley, American Farm Bureau Federation’s director of congressional relations, said AFBF appreciated “the comprehensive and lengthy regulatory review” of Enlist Duo. Continued from page 1

“The vitality of our agricultural economy depends upon the continued advancements of new technologies of this type, which are essential for U.S. farmers to maintain their lead as the world’s most productive, innovative and sustainable growers,” he said. “Important new weed control technologies, such as the Enlist system, provide farmers with additional tools necessary to address the challenges of growing our food, feed, fuel and fiber.”

Drier weather returns; farmers hope to make up lost time

Page 3 • Monday, October 20, 2014 • FarmWeek

BY DANIEL GRANT FarmWeek

The damp, dark weather pattern of recent weeks appears to be giving way to drier conditions more suitable for harvest and other fall fieldwork.

The sun finally reappeared late last week and into the weekend, and the Climate Prediction Center outlook for the rest of the month calls for a strong probability of below-normal precipitation.

“We are anticipating improving weather conditions,” Matt Barnes, meteorologist with the National Weather Service Lincoln office, told FarmWeek.

“The outlook indicates below-normal precipitation.”

A change of scenery would be a welcome relief for farmers. Wet conditions through last week kept most combines parked for a good portion of early fall.

Rainfall totals the last 30 days range from 3 to 5 inches in southern Illinois and 3 to 6 inches in central Illinois up to 6 to 8 inches in a band from southwest to south central Illinois.

Rainfall the past month was lighter in northern Illinois, 2 to 3 inches, but most crops weren’t mature

enough for harvest in that portion of the state until recent weeks.

“It’s one of those things where we really didn’t get the heat over the summer,” Ron Kern, Ogle County Farm Bureau manager, told the RFD Radio Network®. “Harvest has started, but it’s slow. Corn is still hanging on to mid-20s moisture.”

Corn harvest last week was just 35 percent complete in Illinois and 24 percent complete nationwide, 19 percent behind average in both instances.

States with the least amount of corn harvested last week included Iowa (10 percent), Minnesota (7 percent) and North Dakota (2 percent), while farmers in Missouri already combined more than half (51 percent) of their corn crop.

Soybean harvest last week was 29 percent complete in Illinois compared to the five-year average of 52 percent, and 40 percent complete nationwide, 13 percent off the average pace.

“I’ve been spoiled the last four or five years getting beans (harvest) done before Halloween,” said Pete Tekampe, a FarmWeek CropWatcher from

Grayslake (Lake County). “I don’t know if I can do that this year or not.”

Tekampe, as of last week, cut about one-third of his soybeans and had not started corn harvest. He predicted fieldwork in his area may not restart in earnest until the first of this week.

Farmers sat idle last week as cloud cover and frequent rains covered the state the better part of five days.

“What we had was a very slow moving storm system,” Barnes said. “While we were on the warm side of the system, there was a lot of thunderstorm activity and even some severe weather.”

Strong winds pummeled the state early last week and two tornadoes caused minor damage.

A twister near Belleville in St. Clair County knocked over trees, damaged roofs on a number of houses, and damaged or destroyed outbuildings.

Elsewhere, a small tornado damaged buildings, vehicles and traffic signals in Decatur (Macon County), and knocked down power lines and demolished a trailer in Shelby County.

At home on the range; bison excel on eastern Illinois farm

BY DANIEL GRANT FarmWeek

David Ruhter, Newman, worked at zoos more than 20 years before he and his wife, Kathleen, decided to start their own livestock operation.

And with that much experience working with various animals, it didn’t take the Ruhters long to decide what type of animal to raise on their farm.

“You can’t make any money raising zebras or giraffes,” Ruhter said. “We thought bison are an interesting animal that could be self-sustaining, financially.”

It turns out bison not only require minimum maintenance/husbandry, but there also happens to be quite a booming market for the majestic grazers.

“This is ideal for us,” said Ruhter, who also works for the University of Illinois State Geological Survey. “The animals are great to work with.

They’re very social and herdoriented, and you don’t have to pull calves or worry about coyotes.”

The Ruhters’ biggest challenge to start their own bison herd was finding enough grazing land for the animals in the middle of corn and soybean country. They needed about 50 to 60 acres.

After a frustrating search for more than three years, they finally located enough acres on a restored Murdock coal mine in Douglas County.

“It came with some issues, including potential contamination,” Ruhter said. “Fortunately, our family is well equipped to handle it.”

Ruhter’s daughter-in-law works as a civil engineer and another works as an environmental toxicologist, so they evaluated the site and tested the plants, soil and water.

They were relieved when tests showed the site was suitable to raise bison.

“We brought the animals in about three years ago,” he said. “They’re a unique animal and fun to work with.”

Bison also are in short supply and high demand around the country. There currently are about 30 to 35 bison producers in Illinois with a typical herd size of 25 to 30 animals.

“There’s just not enough meat to supply demand,” Ruhter said. “There’s a lot of financial upside with bison. I don’t see this industry declining any time in the near future.”

Bison prices last week hovered around $4.09 a pound, more than twice as high as record cattle prices.

The Ruhters previously shipped bison meat all over the country, but now market most of it locally to reduce shipping costs.

“We market directly to consumers, and so far, found a readily available market,” he said. “People see it as a healthier meat, much leaner than store-bought beef. And as it’s becoming more available, more people are trying it and liking it.”

The Ruhters’ bison herd recently reached 30 head before they shipped some off to be processed. It takes about 30 months before a bison becomes market ready at about 1,000 to 1,200 pounds.

The Ruhters eventually hope to expand their herd.

Bison typically perform best

Above, David Ruhter of Newman checks his herd of bison. He and his wife, Kathleen, started raising the animals three years ago. Below, leaders of the herd strike a pose. (Photos by Ken Kashian)

in herds of at least 25 to 30 animals.

Ruhter belongs to the Illinois/Indiana Bison Association, which formed to help people interested in raising bison locate resources and connections to help raise and sell the animals.

Bison tend to have a higher protein requirement than cattle, so one production challenge includes managing pastures to maximize the production of grasses, Ruhter added. For more information visit the website {illinoisindianabison.org}.

Midwest Bison Symposium set for Nov. 21-22 at Brookfield Zoo

Farmers interested in raising bison or expanding existing herds in Illinois can learn more about the industry next month.

The Illinois/Indiana Bison Association and National Bison Association are sponsoring the inaugural Midwest Bison Symposium in the Chicagoland area.

The two-day event will be held Nov. 21-22 at Brookfield Zoo in Chicago.

The symposium will feature panel discussions on entry to raising and producing bison, health, nutrition, parasite control, animal containment, bison social behavior, herd dynamics, and low-stress handling and transport.

Demand for bison meat and prices paid to producers steadily increased during the past decade and remain at historic highs.

Meanwhile, bison represent one of the

lower-cost, startup enterprises in agriculture.

For additional information or to register for the symposium visit the website {illinoisindianabison.org}. Admission to the zoo will be included with registration.

The Clubhouse Inn and Suites, Westmont, also will provide discounted hotel room rates for early registration.

For additional information, contact David Ruhter at 217-778-9858 or by email at david.ruhter@ruhterbison.com.

Harvest delays, soggy soils compress wheat seeding window FarmWeek • Page 4 • Monday, October 20, 2014

BY DANIEL GRANT FarmWeek

The anxiety level of many wheat growers likely increased last week.

Another round of overcast weather and scattered showers, some heavy, extended harvest delays and limited other fieldwork, including winter wheat seeding.

Kyle Brase, a wheat grower from Edwardsville (Madison County), as of late last week was unable to plant any wheat so far this fall due to the slow row crop harvest and sloppy conditions.

“October 7 Kyle Brase to 15 is the normal time frame I like to plant wheat,” Brase, president of the Illinois Wheat Association, told FarmWeek. “This year I’ll be doing good to get it in by the 25th.”

Illinois farmers as of the first of last week planted just 15 percent of the wheat crop, barely more than one-third of the average amount (41 percent) usually seeded by mid-

October in the previous five with a large flock of Canadian years. geese and gulls that moved Two percent of the crop into the field, could inhibit emerged as of the first of last wheat stands in Tekampe’s week, 10 percent behind the field. average pace.

Overall, the Pete slow start to the FarmWeekNow.com Tekampe, a Listen to Daniel Grant’s interview season concerns with Kyle Brase on wheat seeding Brase, but he FarmWeek at FarmWeekNow.com.

CropWatcher remains optifrom Grayslake mistic wheat (Lake County), planted farmers can catch up before about half his wheat acres a Mother Nature ends the plantweek ago Sunday before a ing season. storm front moved into the “I’d like to have more wheat state. acres planted,” he said. “But “I mudded some of it in,” we can catch up remarkably Tekampe said. “We definitely fast if we just get a window to have plenty of moisture. Some get it done.” of the wheat I planted now is Brase said farmers in his under water.” area have planted wheat as late The excess moisture, along as the first week of November,

although he noted that could be pushing it to establish good stands.

Illinois farmers last fall seeded 740,000 acres of winter wheat, down 15 percent from the previous year but up from 660,000 acres

planted in the autumn of 2011.

Elsewhere, sorghum harvest in the state the first of last week was 26 percent complete compared to the average pace of 45 percent.

Farmers hope large crops, lower prices spur demand

Illinois corn farmers in recent years got excited if the yield monitor in their combines briefly spiked above 200 bushels per acre or if one field reached that mark.

This year, USDA projects Illinois corn farmers will average 200 bushels per acre for the entire state.

If realized, the state corn yield average would surpass the previous record (180 bushels in 2004) by a whopping 20 bushels per acre.

Nationwide, USDA anticipates record yields of 174.2 bushels per acre for corn and 47.1 bushels for beans. And those estimates could grow as harvest progresses.

“Based on the pattern of USDA yield forecasts in previous years when the U.S. average yield was well above trend value, as is the case this year, many expect that the final yield estimate this year will exceed the October forecast,” said Darrel Good, University of Illinois Extension ag economist.

Many farmers typically prefer to harvest extra bushels and take their chances with prices as opposed to having a short crop and potentially higher prices.

But now that actual yields confirm large crops and prices declined significantly in recent months, the focus of farmers and the market shifts to demand.

“With these two big crops coming on line, we need something similar to last year where export inspections maybe hit a record and ethanol plants, if they have positive margins, for ‘Once we get corn crush to be fairly robust,” Terry Reilly, market analyst o u t o f h a r ve s t , with Futures International, said we w i l l s h i f t t o during a webinar hosted by the demand. And CME Group.

USDA in its world supply expor t demand and demand estimates this is good.’ month call for 2014-15 corn use to increase 50 million bushels on increased feed and — Joe Camp residual use, and wheat exports AgriVisor and feed use to grow 25 million bushels, respectively.

Soy exports remain unchanged at a record 1.7 billion bushels.

“Once we get out of harvest, we will shift to demand,” said Joe Camp, AgriVisor risk management specialist. “And export demand is good.”

John Anderson, American Farm Bureau Federation deputy chief economist, agreed.

“We’re seeing corn and soybean yields round out to what we have anticipated for this year’s bumper crop,” Anderson said.

“The good news here is that global demand for grain is holding strong.”

Lower crop prices should spur more export demand. But a rise in the value of the dollar and logistical issues moving such large crops are a concern.

“If we have a dollar that is rising, it potentially could slow exports,” Reilly said. “Then we really could see a glut in the system on top of anticipated logistical nightmares.”

Good believes the big crops and lower prices this year also could cause farmers to plant less corn next year. The ratio of cash soybean and corn prices for 2015 harvest delivery in central Illinois hovers near 2.6 to 1. Futures prices also favor wheat planting compared to corn.

If realized, a drop in acres could support corn prices next year.

“At this juncture, it appears that corn acreage may decline sufficiently in 2015 to generate a 2015-16 marketing year average price in the low-$4 range,” Good said. “However, price ratios will have to continue to motivate that acreage decline into planting time.”

South American crop plantings in the months to come also could have a major influence on the markets. — Daniel Grant

Field meals:

Page 5 • Monday, October 20, 2014 • FarmWeek

A harvest tradition

BY DEANA STROISCH FarmWeek

For Marguerite Zahnd, taking hot meals to her family in the field represents a harvest tradition.

Her mother did it. So did her grandmother. Now, it’s her turn.

“I just believe the farmers need to get off their combines, get out of the semis. They need to take a break for 20

Above, Marguerite Zahnd feeds a hungry crew in a machine shed on her Champaign County farm. Zahnd’s husband, Larry, left, enjoys a hot lunch of Italian beef and side dishes along with Glen Roberts, Zahnd’s son, Andy, and Carl Munkay. Top left, Zahnd transfers scalloped potatoes into a baking pan. She represents the third generation of her family to carry on a tradition of serving hot harvest meals. Above right corner, a luscious lunch features Italian beef, scalloped potatoes, bean salad and deviled eggs. (Photos by Ken Kashian)

Sustainable living expo set

Back for its fourth year, the Sustainable Living Expo will once again be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at the Dixon Springs Agricultural Center.

With the slogan, “Good Choices. Smart Living. Help Yourself,” the event promotes self-reliance and sustainability at home, within local communities and the southern Illinois region. Participants may attend free of charge.

Programs will focus on local foods, energy and safety.

Specific subjects will include food preservation, aquaponics, beekeeping, vegetable gardening, small-scale cattle and backyard chicken farming,

and edible landscaping.

The energy area will have information on interior and exterior home energy efficiency and water quality as well as an ongoing demonstration utilizing the energy trailer. Attendees will also learn about farm, chainsaw and trail safety.

A Kids Area will feature sustainable and science-based projects. Local artisans will display their works in a designated tent. Attendees can also enjoy a food court.

Dixon Springs Ag Center is located at 345 State Hwy 145N near Simpson in rural Pope County. For more information, visit {slexpo.org}.

Dwain L. Ford of Kinmundy will be sworn in as a reappointed United Soybean Board (USB) director in December.

He joins 14 returning and five new members appointed by U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack to the board.

Seventy volunteer USB directors invest soy checkoff funds on behalf of all U.S. soybean farmers in projects to increase the value of U.S. soy-

bean meal and oil, ensure U.S. farmers and their customers maintain the freedom and infrastructure to operate, and meet the needs of U.S. soy’s customers.

Appointees serve three-year terms beginning Dec. 11. They will be sworn in at USB’s annual meeting in St. Louis. Qualified State Soybean Boards nominated all of the appointees.

minutes, and sit down and have a hot meal,” Zahnd said.

Her husband, Larry, and youngest son, Andrew, farm from one end of Champaign County to the other. Some fields are 35 miles apart.

Each morning, she asks them how long they’ll be and whether she should wait for them to call.

Up until about three years ago, she also drove the auger cart.

Meals were either kept warm in crock-pots inside a nearby toolshed or delivered by a friend.

Zahnd has about a dozen goto meals — everything from chicken and noodles to beef stew to pork loin. She tries to plan a few days in advance.

In addition to the main entree, she serves a couple of sides — maybe potato salad or cole slaw and a vegetable. Dessert, too.

She’ll put the 13 x 9 casserole dish in a thermal bag and wraps the rest of the meal in beach towels to keep it hot.

Once in the field, she waits for her family — and the two semi drivers — to be ready for a break.

“Everybody just fills their plates, sits down and eats, and away they go again,” she said.

Serving meals gets more challenging once the family starts chisel plowing. Then she has to drive to additional fields to make sure all the workers are fed. The

delivery process can take a couple hours.

One of her favorite recipes to make: Italian beef sandwiches Roast (3-4 pound roast should feed 5) 2 bay leaves 1 t. garlic 1 t. garlic powder 1 t. salt 1 t. black pepper 1 t. cayenne red pepper 1 t. sweet basil 1 t. oregano 2 quarts of beef broth Rolls

Combine spices with beef broth. Place broth and spices with roast in gallon Ziploc bag.

Place bag in large pan and refrigerate. Let marinate overnight.

In the morning, pour bag of meat and spices into a cooking pan. Add another quart of beef broth. Cook at 350 degrees for 2-3 hours, depending on size of roast. (Internal temperature for medium is 140-150 F.) When ready, slice roast. Serve on steak rolls. Zahnd recommends serving them open faced and pouring broth over them to keep them extra juicy.

Do you have a field meal story to tell?

Email CAnderson@ilfb.org.

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FarmWeek • Page 6 • Monday, October 20, 2014 Bernie Walsh, Durand, Winnebago County: Soybean harvest was going great until Sunday (Oct. 12) when the rain started. By the time it stopped raining Wednesday, we had between 3 and 3.5 inches. There hasn’t been any combining done all week. We will probably have to switch to corn until the beans dry out again. Very little corn has been done, and there is approximately 40 percent of the beans left to harvest. Hopefully, we will get some drier weather in the next few weeks so we can catch up with this harvest. Have a safe week.

Pete Tekampe, Grayslake, Lake County: There was some corn and beans harvested last week, but beans came to a halt late Sunday afternoon (Oct. 12) and corn early Monday afternoon because of sprinkles and showers.

The rain event lasted until Thursday afternoon. We received almost 4 inches of moisture. About 15 percent of the beans are cut and just a little corn has been harvested. Some winter wheat has been sown, but most of the ground is soft yet. It must be good conditions for geese because they have overrun the cut fields of beans and the planted fields of wheat. I don’t understand why they need to be a protected species. Remember to be careful and be safe.

Leroy Getz, Savanna, Carroll County: All harvest came to a halt Sunday (Oct. 12) when three days of rain moved into northwestern Illinois. Rain totaled 2 to 2.5 inches. Ninety percent of all soybeans in the county are cut, but corn is still way behind as many producers have not started yet.

Our hilly fields need a couple of drying days before we can run. The green hay fields make a good contrast to the fall colors. Enjoy.

Ryan Frieders, Waterman, DeKalb County: It has been raining and foggy for the past week with no fieldwork done. We have received several inches of rain, and harvest has come to a complete stop. It would take a couple of nice days to dry the ground out enough to even think about getting back in the fields, and the forecast looks bleak. Soybean harvest is 60 percent complete and corn is 15 percent complete.

Everyone remain calm.

Larry Hummel, Dixon, Lee County: Low test weights are the big conversation piece at the elevators. The highest test weight I’ve heard is 58 pounds, but most are below 56 and a lot are close to 50 pounds. This summer’s cool weather didn’t furnish enough heat to put the finishing touches on this year’s corn crop. We are switching to corn harvest while we wait for our last field of soybeans to dry out after last week’s continuous rain. Only a little more than 1 inch of rain, but it misted every day. Our earliest maturity corn is down to 25 percent moisture, and so far, looks to be about average. It looks like the lighter soils will be above average and the good, flat black land will be below its average. The good, flat land ended up being too flat for the spring’s heavy rains.

Ken Reinhardt, Seaton, Mercer County: Rain, anywhere from more than an inch to more than 5 inches, fell early in the week. The 5 inches fell where it was least needed in the river bottom that already had been wet enough to be causing problems with harvest. I finished soybeans before the rain, but there are many acres left to go in the area.

Ron Moore, Roseville, Warren County: We received 1.6 inches of rain last week. That put a stop to harvest for several days.

Some areas in the county got up to 3 inches. We started harvest again Thursday, and the corn is still in the mid-20s for moisture and the mid200s for yield. We did some soybeans before it rained. Those yields jumped up to the low 60s when we got away from the diseased fields. Hopefully, we can miss some showers and concentrate on soybean harvest. I did seed some rye this fall, and the rains have helped it turn green.

We will see how effective it is for erosion control and nutrient capture. Sometimes, it is fun to try new things that others have made successful.

Mark Kerber, Chatsworth, Livingston County: Good weather is settling in — just what we ordered.

Rain amounts varied from .5 of an inch to 2 inches. Forty percent of the soybeans have been harvested and about 20 percent of the corn. We put mud scrapers on our combine to keep the duals from filling up, and I found the button for the rear wheel drive. Getting the corn out of the fields in the auger cart will be more of a problem than the combine. I also rounded up a big chain. Markets are staying steady as fuel continues to drop.

Ron Haase, Gilman, Iroquois County: We continue to wait for sunshine and dry weather. This week we received 1.05 of an inch of rain. Some harvesting took place Oct. 11-13 between rain showers.

We were able to get started and now have 1 acre of soybeans harvested and 13 acres of corn done.

There is a long way to go yet and wet soil conditions to deal with, but we do know that our harvest equipment is working. The corn we hauled in tested between 20 and 24 percent moisture. One load had a test weight of 50.9 pounds per bushel. Local prices for Oct. 16 closed at $3.12 for nearby corn and $9.42 for nearby soybeans.

Brian Schaumburg, Chenoa, McLean County: Yet another wet week with little or no harvest progress. Long-range forecasts call for a change in trend toward drier and warmer weather. Most farmers will now focus on soybean harvest.

Fertility and cropping decisions are being made for 2015, and there is not a lot of optimism going forward.

Markets have rallied, leaving me to wonder when the axe will drop on prices. Corn, $3.19, Jan., $3.36, fall ’15, $3.64; soybeans, $9.38, Jan., $9.51, fall ’15, $9.41; wheat, $4.76.

Steve Ayers, Champaign, Champaign County: Harvest came to a screeching halt Sunday afternoon (Oct. 12) with a light rain, but we were able to finish a cornfield with an average of 216 bushels per acre dry corn. The combine has been resting since then, so it’s tanned, rested and ready for the upcoming run of dry days. This week we had .8 of an inch of rain, which is on the low side as most areas totaled 1.5 to 2 inches.

Hoping to return to the field this weekend once fields dry. Looks like Sunday morning may see 35 degrees, but warming up after then. Dean, from Premier Co-op, said corn harvest progress is 55 percent and soybeans are 47 percent harvested. Let’s be careful out there!

Wilfred Dittmer, Quincy, Adams County: A lot of crop is harvested around here, but there remains quite a bit still standing.

The ground is not drying out very fast between the rainy days. We received 1.7 inches since last report, so basically all harvesting has come to a standstill. I think most other ground traffic also has come to a halt. I guess the rains have allowed the pipeline of grain to catch up, too. Have a good week, and still take time to be careful.

Tom Ritter, Blue Mound, Macon County: There was some field action Friday and Saturday, and a little bit Sunday (Oct. 12) before the rains started in again. Some areas had a lot of high winds. A tornado went through eastern Macon County, which laid a lot of corn down and did some damage to property. Most farmers had anywhere from 1 to 1.5 inches of rain on fields that were already very soggy. Needless to say, there has been no action in the field.

Drying conditions were very poor. We were surprised to see the sun Thursday afternoon, and with sun in the forecast, we plan to get back in the field sometime over the weekend if not sooner. Most farmers are thinking they need to have a chain handy because the sides of the hills and other areas are very vulnerable to sticking a combine or an auger wagon. At this point, corn harvest is somewhere around 50 percent complete. Soybeans are not quite that far along.

Hopefully, we can keep some sunshine to make at least a few productive hours per day.

Carrie Winkelmann, Tallula, Menard County: Monday (Oct. 13) did us in for the week. We received .9 of an inch of rain and then trace amounts almost every day during the week. We were going to get back in the field Friday. I saw some corn harvesting in the western part of the county yesterday. We are about 50 percent done with corn, but not quite to that point with beans.

Todd Easton, Charleston, Coles County: It has been a challenging week for producers as the persistent rain pattern has slowed harvest progress and made conditions difficult when we could go. Another 2 inches of rain has hit the gauge since last report. Corn harvest has moved along slightly, maybe approaching half done in the area. Soybean harvest has not progressed at all. As we headed into the weekend, the weather finally cleared and the sun finally came back out. This week should be a big week as we try to mud out more of this bountiful crop. I noticed big tractors on several farms have been unhitched from their implements and have tow straps on the back.

I hope we don’t need them too much.

Jimmy Ayers, New City, Sangamon County: One to 2 inches of rain were received across the county. We received 2.1 inches at our place. It’s extremely wet. There were some mud tracks cut Saturday and Sunday (Oct. 11-12).

Quite a number of tracks being put on combines and auger carts.

Large tires are in demand. A lot of corn and beans left. I would say we are 40 to 50 percent complete on corn, and beans are probably more like 30 to 40 percent. There are a few farmers finished with corn, but not sure of anyone done with beans yet.

David Schaal, St. Peter, Fayette County: We finally had sunshine Friday morning. Combines have been idle because of seven days of cloudy, rainy and drizzly weather. Field conditions around here may be on the soft side now, but with the sunshine, combines will continue to try to go. Hoping for some good harvest weather. Our local corn bid is $3.14; soybeans, $9.47. Stay safe.

Jeff Guilander, Jerseyville, Jersey County: The weatherman got it right this time. Another 3 to 5 inches of rain in the last week has everyone scratching their heads. The question being asked now is when and where to try to get across any field. Hope to report more progress next week.

Dan Meinhart, Montrose, Jasper County: It rained every day last week totally saturating the ground. People are equipping their combines with tracks, rice tires and rear wheel assist because of the muddy conditions. Monday’s (Oct. 13) storm was accompanied by heavy rain and strong winds that knocked down power lines, blew over trees and took roofs off buildings in a small area when the front came through. Very little or no harvest took place this past week.

We are looking forward to a drier week ahead.

Dave Hankammer, Millstadt, St. Clair County: Very little, if any, fieldwork occurred last week due to wet field conditions. I collected more than 2 inches of rain since my last report for a total of more than 3 inches of rainfall when the weather front started to move through the area. Overcast skies and occasional light showers kept fields soggy. A couple of tornados touched down east and southeast of Belleville Monday afternoon, causing damage to several homes and nearby crops. Sunshine returned Thursday, giving farmers an opportunity to return to a muddy harvest. Local grain bids are corn, $2.86; soybeans, $9.62; wheat, $3.68.

Kevin Raber, Browns, Wabash County: Not much field activity last week. Heavy rains kept most activities in the shop. We were hoping to get harvesting again Friday. Very little wheat has been sown. Don’t know how long it will take to get dry enough to try to get any in the ground.

ARC or PCL: Producers’ choice

Page 7 • Monday, October 20, 2014 • FarmWeek

Dean Shields, Murphysboro, Jackson County: After five days of rain, the sun was shining Thursday and we were back picking corn. We didn’t get as much rain as expected. We were done with corn Friday and switched to soybeans. There are a lot of beans ready to cut in Jackson County.

They look good and the yields should be good. The wheat I saw being planted last week is up.

Randy Anderson, Galatia, Saline County: No fieldwork for the past eight days. Rain, showers, sprinkles, fog or clouds — take your pick. I feel safe saying that in my area 70 percent of the crop is still in the field — corn and beans.

No wheat has been sown, and at this point, might not as the ground is wet and not drying. We were looking to get back in the field Friday. Be safe with the long hours ahead.

BY DEANA STROISCH FarmWeek

Ken Taake, Ullin, Pulaski County: There has been no field activity since my last report. We’ve had more than 3.25 inches of rain since last Wednesday evening. I think it has rained at least a little bit every day since then. We may get back in the fields Saturday, but more likely it will be Monday because soils are pretty saturated.

Please take time to be safe as we are in this busy season.

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

SURE SIGN OF FALL

Carroll County trees put on a brilliant fall show. CropWatcher Leroy Getz couldn’t resist snapping a few shots. (Photo

by Leroy Getz)

Listen.

Click.

Under the 2014 far m bill, producers — not landowners — decide whether to select Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) or Price Loss Coverage (PLC).

Illinois Farm Bureau’s Doug Yoder said that’s a unique feature not seen in previous farm bills.

“FSA (Farm Service Agency) has made a point to define what a producer is,” Yoder said. “In their definition, a landowner that cash rents land to a tenant is not a producer, thus would have no say in that selection on the farm.”

But a share-rent landowner qualifies as a producer under the definition.

FSA also won’t require a cashr e n t l a n d o w n e r ’s s i g n a t u r e acknowledging the program selection, Yoder said.

“There’s a potential that some cash-rent landowners won’t even know what’s selected on their farm,” Yoder said. “Now I think the vast majority of tenants and landowners are going to discuss it, but you could have some cases of absentee landlords, for example.”

The program selection stays with the land for the life of the five-year farm bill.

Stan Wilson, Illinois FSA chief program specialist, said FSA will tell cash-rent landowners which program was selected on their farm if they contact their local FSA office.

Signed into law in February, the Agricultural Act of 2014 eliminates direct payments and modifies the target price program, replacing the Counter-Cyclical Payment (CCP) program with PLC. The bill also changes the revenue safety nets, replacing Average Crop Revenue Election (ACRE) with two ARC options — County ARC and Individual Farm ARC. Those who don’t make a decision will automatically be enrolled in PLC. Landowners will decide whether to reallocate base acreage or update payment yields. Those changes can be made through Feb. 27, 2015.

Far mers can choose between ARC and PLC between Nov. 17 and March 31, 2015.

But that decision could be changed if the same land is farmed by different people in 2014 and 2015. Yoder pointed to a scenario where a program selection by farm operator in 2014 could be changed by the new farm operator in 2015 — if it’s done by the March 31 deadline. The 2014 farm payments would then be based on the decision made by the 2015 farmer.

Read.

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

Get to know Rita Frazer

RFD Radio Network® (RFDRN) Anchor FarmWeek & FarmWeekNow.com contributor Rita comes from a farming family and has been broadcasting for a quarter-century. Rita loves to unearth the family connection in her stories and values the experience and outlook of fellow RFDRN, FarmWeekNow.com and FarmWeek® colleagues. You can also follow Rita on Twitter, @FarmWeekNow.

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WTO panel sides with Lawsuits filed against Syngenta U.S. in trade dispute FarmWeek • Page 8 • Monday, October 20, 2014

A World Trade Organization (WTO) dispute settlement panel ruled last week that India’s ban on U.S. agricultural products breached international trade rules.

U.S. Trade Rep. Michael Froman called the ruling “a major victory for American farmers.”

India banned various U.S. agricultural products, including poultry meat, eggs and live pigs, more than seven years ago to protect against avian influenza. The WTO panel agreed with the United States that the ban was imposed without sufficient scientific evidence.

James H. Sumner, president of USA Poultry & Egg Export Council, said the ruling eliminates one of the major obstacles to future exports of U.S. poultry and eggs to India. As long as the issue remained unresolved, he said, it was impossible for the industry to even consider exporting to India.

“As for when exports to India can begin, we must first wait for the WTO appeals process to play out, which could take up to a year,” he said. “However, the fact that the U.S. prevailed in the WTO

BY DEANA STROISCH

We

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dispute with India sends a strong and clear signal to other countries that trade restrictions, for reasons that are unjustifiable and unscientific, will not stand.”

Sumner estimates that if the markets open up, the United States could easily ship 250,000 metric tons of broiler meat, an equivalent of 18.3 million bushels of corn and 9 million bushels of soybeans.

Illinois corn growers recently joined the ranks of fellow U.S. corn farmers filing lawsuits against Syngenta Corp.

With the latest suits in Illinois, Iowa, Missouri and Nebraska, nine cases have been filed against Syngenta in eight federal district courts.

The new lawsuits contend that marketing of MIR162 corn, known as Agrisure Viptera,

by Syngenta in the United States has caused domestic corn to be effectively excluded from China, and U.S. corn prices to be detrimentally impacted as a result. Since November 2013, China stopped importing U.S. corn upon detection of the genetically engineered seed in shipments.

Adam Levitt, a partner in Chicago law firm Grant & Eisenhofer P.A. and one of the lawyers representing the farmers, said the amount of damages Syngenta’s alleged wrongful conduct caused corn growers will be determined at trial.

The lawsuits also call for preliminary and permanent injunctions preventing Syngenta from selling, marketing and distributing MIR162 corn until it has been approved for import by China.

Levitt has also filed a brief asking that the nine pending Syngenta cases be coordinated or consolidated in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois for pretrial proceedings.

Collegiate Farm Bureau groups kick off school year

Illinois Farm Bureau nurtured three collegiate groups at Illinois State University (ISU), the University of Illinois (U of I) and Western Illinois University (WIU), and continues to work with Southern Illinois University.

IFB’s Membership Promotion Action Team, formerly known as Membership Action Team, started the state’s collegiate Farm Bureau program.

During the school year, university Farm Bureau groups offer networking events, tour agricultural facilities, provide leadership training and attend conferences.

IFB staff, Young Leaders and county Farm Bureau managers attended the first fall meetings

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to help students sign up as members.

ISU Collegiate Farm Bureau signed up 46 members at its first meeting.

This year’s Cori Harrison officers are: President Cori Harrison, Vice President Rebecca Vaessen, Treasurer Andrea Davidson, Secretary Kelsey Schueler, Member Services and Programming Coordinator Rachel Hoeft, Public Relations Executive Courtney Miller, Governmental Affairs Representative Kristen Faucon and Agricultural Outreach Representative Emily Newcomer.

The U of I Collegiate Farm Bureau signed up 53 members

with the first 50 receiving U of I Collegiate Farm Bureau T-shirts.

This year’s officers are: President Jacob Meisner, Jacob Meisner Vice President Darren Riskedal, Secretary Jacquelyn Prestegaard, Treasurer Josh Donoho, Agricultural Education and Literacy Representative Taylor Hardy, Member Services and Programming Coordinator Abby Marten, Public Relations Executive Kelsey Litchfield, Governmental Affairs Representative Jenna Sudeth, and College Council Representatives Chelsea Verbeck and Sarah Sellars.

WIU, the newest collegiate group, signed up 64 members.

President Jenny Jackson served as IFB youth ambassador this summer.

In addition to Jackson, this year’s officers Jenny Jackson include Vice President Tim Whittaker, Treasurer TJ Wilson, Secretary Ali Thornton, Member Services Coordinator Emily DeShepper, Public Relations Executive Katie Lewis, Ag Education and Literacy Representative Mallory Munster and Governmental Affairs Representative Shelbie Blackburn.

For more information, visit {www.ilfb.org/ifb-news-andevents/ifb-in-action/2014-octo ber/collegiate-farm-bureaukickoff.aspx}.

Things

For Agriculture!

Illinois Farm Bureau

ACTION TEAMs Don’t have a crystal ball? You don’t need one! The special skills you bring to the table can create great things for agriculture. Twice a year, you meet with team members from around the state to develop a plan for a statewide project. If approved, your idea is set into action to produce results for Farm Bureau and agriculture.

Work magic with a team that matches your interests.

Choose from Quality of Life, Consumer Outreach, Membership Promotion, or Leadership Development.

Applications are available at your county Farm Bureau. Return by Nov. 24.

www.elections.il.gov MA333T4

GOV338_H4

Relief at the pump: price decline could continue

Weary consumers, truckers and farmers who experienced sticker shock at fuel pumps in recent years finally received some relief the last few months.

And the trend could continue.

Prices for gasoline and diesel fuel broke sharply toward the end of summer and so far this fall as ample supplies of crude oil drench the market. “We’ve been in a range-bound market for nearly four years,� said Jackie McKinnis, senior energy analyst at GROWMARK Inc. “This is the first major breakout since November 2010.�

Wholesale gasoline prices from mid-June through last week plummeted nearly $1 per gallon, while crude oil prices tumbled about $25 per barrel during the same time.

In Illinois, the price of a gallon of regular gasoline last week averaged $3.27, down 30 cents from last month, and $3.75 for diesel fuel, down 29 cents, according to the AAA Fuel Gauge Report.

Gas prices at some locations even

BY DANIEL GRANT

dipped below $3 per gallon in recent weeks. “I think there’s a pretty good chance of prices going down even further,� McKinnis said. “The gas chart has been on a

FarmWeekNow.com

Visit FarmWeekNow.com to hear Jackie McKinnis’ comments on what’s happening in the fuel markets.

downswing the past four months.�

Many farmers already locked in fuel prices for the fall season, but should be able to take advantage of the break in prices to lock in lower rates this winter and spring.

A key driver of the drop in fuel prices revolves around crude oil production. U.S. oil production reached 8.7 million barrels per day last month, which was the highest monthly production since July 1986, the Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported. It predicts the national average gas price could

dip to $3.14 per gallon by December.

Next year, EIA projects domestic oil production could average 9.5 million barrels per day, which would be the highest production level since 1970. “The U.S. and Canada upped production so much it’s changed relationships (of oil sales and movements) around the world,�

McKinnis said.

The extra production comes in large part from shale oil producers in the U.S. and from oil sands in Canada.

And so far, the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) indicates it plans to continue production at the recent pace rather than cut back in an attempt to tighten supplies and strengthen the market. “I think there’s already an oil price war,� McKinnis said. “We could continue to see that for a while.�

EIA, in its short-term energy and winter outlook this month, predicts U.S. crude oil prices could slip from an average of nearly $98 per barrel the last two years to around $94.58 next year.

Meanwhile, EIA projects household expenditures for natural gas, heating oil, electricity and propane will decrease this winter heating season (Oct. 1 – March 31) compared to last winter, which was 11 percent colder than the previous 10year average.

Page 9 • Monday, October 20, 2014 • FarmWeek

WORLD’S TALLEST COW

Patty Hanson of Orangeville hugs Blosom, also known as the Guinness World Records tallest cow as of last week. The Holstein cow measures about 6 feet, 4 inches. Hanson and Blosom, 13, graced the cover of Illinois Farm Bureau Partners magazine spring edition for associate members. Hanson owns Memory Lane Crafting Retreat. (Photo by Michael Tedesco)

HOW DO OUR SOYBEANS Food Summit offering full menu

Military veterans and a special link to the state’s food industry will be highlighted Nov. 13 during the fourth annual Local and Regional Food Summit at Heartland Community College’s Astroth Community Education Center, Normal. The registration deadline is Nov. 10.

The summit starts at 9 a.m. and concludes at 5 p.m. The $20 registration fee includes all conference materials, lunch and refreshments. Due to limited seating, registration is first come, first served.

Illinois Farm Bureau, the Illinois Department of Agriculture and Heartland Community College host the event. “This event is an opportunity for farmers and industry to convene and learn about the different local and regional projects that are taking shape and learn from experts in the industry,� said Cynthia Haskins, IFB manager of business development and compliance. “This year, we’re excited to offer a wide range of speakers and topics that will touch on everything from the demand for local food at grocery stores to how to market your family’s recipe at farmers’ markets, grocery stores and restaurants.�

Topics will include: the Homegrown by Heroes program for veterans and active military personnel, Rantoul’s microfood hub, marketing a family secret recipe, formation of local food hub distribution businesses, selling fresh produce to foodservice distributors, updates on meat labeling and raw milk regulations, and barriers to successful community-supported agriculture.

Farmer participants also may meet with buyers in a Meet the Buyers networking event during the summit.

To honor veterans, the Portrait of a Soldier, a traveling exhibit of hand-sketched portraits of military personnel killed since Sept. 11, 2001, will be displayed during the conference.

For information and online registration, visit {www.ilfb.org/ifbnews-and-events/conferences-events/2014-local-and-regionalfood-summit.aspx}.

STACK UP?

HELP US MEASURE ILLINOIS SOYBEAN COMPOSITIONAL QUALITY. We need your help with an important study on soybean value.

The Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) is asking farmers in every Illinois county to provide 1 or 2 soybean samples from this year’s harvest to test protein and oil levels throughout the state. Your samples will help develop a better baseline of the compositional quality (protein and oil levels) of our soybeans that are going into the marketplace.

It’s easy and free for farmers to get involved: r *4" BTLT GPS PS TBNQMFT GSPN ZPVS GBMM IBSWFTU‡BOE BMM JOEJWJEVBM SFTVMUT XJMM CF LFQU strictly confidential r 5IFSF JT OP DPTU UP UIF GBSNFS‡BMM NBUFSJBMT SFUVSO QPTUBHF BOE UFTUJOH XJMM CF QSPWJEFE CZ *4" r 8F MM QSPWJEF ZPVS DPOãEFOUJBM JOEJWJEVBM SFTVMUT‡DPNQBSF IPX ZPVS CFBOT TUBDL VQ BHBJOTU *MMJOPJT CFBOT BU TUBUF SFHJPOBM BOE DPVOUZ MFWFMT To participate: 4JHO VQ BU *MTPZ PSH DPNQPTJUJPO RVBMJUZTVSWFZ PS DPOUBDU 1BU )FSSPO QIFSSPO!DFOUSFD DPN or (217) 352-1190).

8IFO ZPV SFHJTUFS XF MM TFOE ZPV B QBDLFU XJUI FWFSZUIJOH ZPV OFFE UP DPMMFDU BOE SFUVSO ZPVS TBNQMF T GPS UFTUJOH 8F MM SFUVSO ZPVS SFTVMUT CZ +BOVBSZ 'PS RVFTUJPOT BCPVU UIF TVSWFZ QMFBTF DPOUBDU 4IBSPO #BSE TCBSE!DFOUSFD DPN PS -FF 4JOHMFUPO (lsingleton@centrec.com) or call (217) 352-1190.

We know harvest is a busy time and sincerely appreciate your help with this important effort.

LEARN MORE: ILSOY.ORG/COMPOSITION/QUALITYSURVEY ISAQ09149350

LaSalle County farmer surpasses soybean yield record

FarmWeek • Page 10 • Monday, October 20, 2014

For Dan Arkels of Peru, 2014 has turned out to be more than a great year. He recently harvested a record 103.95 bushels of soybeans per acre on his 30-acre LaSalle County test plot.

Arkels’ yield was verified by an independent agronomist as part of the Illinois Soybean Association’s (ISA) 100 Bushel Challenge program.

More than 25 growers participated in the 2014 100 Bushel Challenge. The winner will not be announced until all participants harvest their plots and yields are verified. “In my world, this is like winning the World Series,� explained Arkels. “Someone needed to prove it’s possible to raise 100-bushel soybeans in Illinois, and I was lucky in that I had the right growing season to do it.�

Arkels participated in the ISA Yield Challenge program in 2012 and 2013. In 2012, he was recognized as one of three Illinois growers achieving more than 80 bushels per acre. His 2014 results broke the previous record by nearly

15 bushels. “Our goal for the 2014 Yield Challenge was to have growers reach for the 100bushel mark, and Dan has proven that it’s possible, given today’s high-performing soybean varieties and smart management decisions,� said Donald Guinnip, ISA Production Committee chairman and Marshall soybean farmer.

Arkels attributed his success to using the latest soybean seed genetics and keeping plants healthy all season.

Working with a team of local experts played an important role in helping him make the right decisions — Dave Callan of GRAINCO FS Inc., Pioneer dealers George and Dan Lucach of Lucach Seed, Don Stork from StollerUSA and Shawn Clapp from Rosen’s Inc. Arkels planted on May 8 in what he described as “nearly ideal conditions,� including warm weather and timely rains. He selected a 3.4 maturity level variety versus a 2.8 maturity variety he plants on the balance of his acres. “I chose this variety in hopes of capturing more

sunlight and more of the growing season,� he said.

From his experience with previous Yield Challenge contests, Arkels knew that a preplant application of potash and phosphorus, as well as 15-inch row spacing, would translate into higher yields. He also made a foliar application of nitrogen, zinc, manganese, iron and sulfur at the V3-V4 soybean growth stages. He applied additional slow-release nitrogen and micronutrients throughout the season, and fungicides as needed.

Fluctuating weather patterns contributed to some mid-season stress from sudden death syndrome on his farm, but Arkels estimated it only affected 1 to 2 percent of the plants in his test plot, not significantly affecting his yields.

Arkels said the Yield Challenge program has helped him evaluate best management practices for his farm. “I do things differently on my challenge plot to learn what’s going to really move beans to the next level,� he said.

Dan Arkels of Peru harvests 103.95-bushel soybeans from a 30-acre plot on his LaSalle County farm. Arkels is one of more than 25 soybean growers who entered the Illinois Soybean Association’s 100 Bushel Challenge program. A winner will be named once all plots are harvested and yields verified. (Photo courtesy of Illinois Soybean Association)

Small acreage workshop series planned

The University of Illinois Extension local foods and small farms team is sponsoring a series of workshops on several topics to help people interested in using or diversifying a few acres.

Putting Small Acres to Work workshops will be offered between Nov. 1 and March 7 at locations throughout Illinois. Topics and presenters will vary at each location, but will include season extension, vegetable and fruit production, livestock production, choosing scale-appropriate equipment, soil health, beekeeping, herb production, agroforestry, organic production, integrated pest management and composting. “We developed these workshops to help people realize the possibilities that a few acres can provide,� said Deborah Cavanaugh-Grant, U of I Extension local foods and small farms educator.

Dates and locations are: • Nov. 1, Sauk Valley Community College, Dixon; • Dec. 6, Northern Illinois University Rockford Meeting and Conference Center, Rockford; • Dec. 6, Parkland College Tony Noel Agricultural Technology Applications Center, Champaign; • Jan. 21, Franklin County Extension Office, Benton; • Feb. 14, John Wood Community College, Quincy; and • March 7, Lincoln Land Community College, Hillsboro.

Details and registration are available online by visiting {web.exten sion.illinois.edu/smallfarm/puttingsmallacrestowork. html} or by contacting Cavanaugh-Grant at 217-782-4617 or cvnghgrn@illi nois.edu.

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Page 11 • Monday, October 20, 2014 • FarmWeek

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TRAVELING BARNYARD

Ron Wasson of Princeville, owner of Barnyard Discoveries, talks about dairy and poultry production inside his traveling educational barnyard. Wasson brought his trailer to Illinois Farm Bureau recently to demonstrate his program. In his third year of “providing a field trip in your parking lot,” Wasson makes school visits within an 85-mile radius of Peoria his top priority. Peoria County Farm Bureau underwrites Wasson’s visits to about 10 county schools every spring as part of its Ag in the Classroom efforts. The program reaches more than 200 third through sixth grade students. For more information, visit {barn yarddiscoveries.com}. (Photo by Cyndi Cook)

Specialty, ID-preserved grains topic of workshop Nov. 3-5

attendees an opportunity to see commercial storage, cleaning and handling facilities, and learn about current premiums, contracting, testing, marketing and delivery of organic, nonGMO and other identity-preserved grains.

Local farmers will present various aspects of specialty and organic grain marketing, including both direct marketing and wholesale marketing during the last day of the workshop.

The Specialty and Organic Grains Intensive costs $450 through Wednesday and increases to $500 until close of registration Oct. 29. The cost includes all meals and the bus tour.

A one-day tour option on Nov. 4 costs $125 through Wednesday and increases to $150 until Oct. 29. Partial scholarships are available. More details may be found at {theland connection.org/farmers/farmer -training-intensives/grains}.

Farmers considering growth of specialty or identity-preserved grain may want to attend a workshop Nov. 3-5 at Prairie Fruits Farm and Creamery in Champaign.

Sponsored by The Land Connection, the workshop will help participants learn how to assess their farming operation’s suitability for specialty grain production, and discover main seed-sourcing, harvesting, storage and marketing options.

The workshop also features a tour of a certified organic grain farm and Clarkson Grain storage and processing facilities. Jack Erisman of Goldmine Farms in Assumption will host the farm tour. He transitioned 2,000 acres to certified organic production more than 20 years ago, and will answer questions about how he grows and markets different specialty and organic grains.

Clarkson Grain will give

Bacon becomes permanent food trend

Forget kale and cupcakes. Bacon apparently is making a permanent mark in food industry trends, according to Specialty Food News.

Bacon annual sales of more than $4 billion outpace specialty coffee, Greek yogurt and craft beer. The bacon trend cuts a swath across many consumer products — some edible, some not.

After many years as a breakfast food, the National Pork Board repositioned bacon as a flavor enhancer. The trend expanded as fast food companies topped burgers with bacon, and the trend expanded to supermarkets and beyond.

Local foods news served online nels, livestock, fruit and vegetable production, farmers’ markets, marketing and economics. Posts include prerecorded presentations.

Visit the site often to stay up with the latest events and news throughout the state.

Farmers and the general public can find news related to local food topics on the University of Illinois Extension website {web.extension.illi nois.edu/smallfarm}.

Information covers food safety, beekeeping, high tun-

Applications due by Nov. 16

2015

FarmWeek • Page 12 • Monday, October 20, 2014

Cook County hosts ag leadership academy Thirty-three students from urban high schools with approved agriculture programs recently attended Cook County Farm Bureau Foundation’s Agriculture Leadership Academy.

Themed, “Investigating Urban Hunger,” students met at historic Wagner Farm in Glenview where they compared and contrasted agriculture and farming methods from the 1920s with modern practices.

During lunch, students learned about efforts to provide safe and nutritious food from Mike Horcher, Horcher Farms in Wheeling, and Jill Brickman, supervisor of the Northfield Food Pantry in Glenview.

During the afternoon, students discussed local and world hunger using the book, “The Hungry Planet,” and formed a

school project outline to address a hunger need in their community.

Students and teachers attending represented Chicago High School for Ag Sciences,

John Marshall and Chicago Vocational Career Academy.

While farmers harvest crops, Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom (IAITC) seeded a record number of county ag literacy efforts with an all-time high of more than $500,000 through its county coalition grant program.

Sixty-nine coalitions serving 79 Illinois counties received $532,250 in grant dollars used for materials, training, and educational lessons and activities to take place during the 2014-15 school year.

“Harvest is such a great time to celebrate the family farm and remember the important role agriculture plays in our daily life,” said Kevin Daugherty, IAITC program education director. “So, what better time to make sure county ag literacy programs have the funding needed to deliver that message to students!”

In 2013-14, IAITC reached 516,452 students with a message about agriculture. Additionally, 36,074 teachers and 1,203 preservice teachers learned how to incorporate agriculture into their existing curriculum while meeting state learning standards. County coordinators and volunteers provide immediate access to teachers and students, ensuring schools get the most out of program opportunities.

County coalition grants are made possible through funding from the IAA Foundation, the charitable arm of the Illinois Farm Bureau. The IAA Foundation raises funds for the IAITC program each year, and in addition to county grants, provides funding for Ag Mags, teacher grants, Summer Ag Institutes and more.

“Over the past five years, the IAA Foundation has been able to increase coalition grant funds by nearly 20 percent,” said Susan Moore, IAA Foundation director. “This trend continues due to the valuable support received through partners and contributors who understand that the effectiveness of Ag in the Classroom comes from its grassroots approach.”

IAITC partner organizations include Illinois Farm Bureau, Facilitating Coordination in Agricultural Education (FCAE), University of Illinois Extension, Illinois Beef Association, Illinois Corn Growers, Illinois Pork Producers, Illinois Soybean Association, Midwest Dairy Association, Illinois Department of Agriculture and the Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts.

In addition, annual donors include agribusiness partners and event participants with an

interest in supporting the future of agriculture. For information on how individuals can contribute, visit {iaafoundation. org}.

Tuesday: • FarmWeek: “The Early Word” • Eric Schmidt, EJS Weather • Colleen Callahan, USDA Rural Development: FARM Illinois Wednesday: • Mark Schleusener, state statistician: chemical use survey results • Jay O’Neil, Kansas State

University: rail transportation update • Richard Guebert Jr., Illinois Farm Bureau president Thursday: • Jim Shertzer, FARMserver: using your data • Harry Cooney, GROWMARK: energy update Friday: • Brian Fell, Pioneer • Sheryl King, Illinois Horseman’s Council: Coalition of State Horse Councils meeting • “Horse Talk”

BY DIANE MERRION

B

Page 13 • Monday, October 20, 2014 • FarmWeek

UREAU — Farm Bureau will co-host a college day for students at 10 a.m. Nov. 12 at Birkey’s Farm Store in Henry. Sophomore, junior and senior high school students from Bureau, Marshall, Putnam and Stark counties interested in pursuing a career in an agricultural field are invited to attend. Nine Illinois colleges will be represented. Call the Farm Bureau office at 875-6164 for reservations.

OOK — Farm Bureau will host a will and trust seminar from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

Nov. 11 at the Farm Bureau office. The seminar will be free for members and $10 for nonmembers. Call the Farm Bureau office at 354-3276 to register.

ANKAKEE — Farm Bureau will co-sponsor informational forums at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, county executive form of government; 6:45 p.m.

Tuesday, Rep. Katherine Cloonen, D-Kankakee, and challenger Glenn Nixon debate; 5:30 p.m. Oct. 27, 1 percent sales tax increase referendum; and 6:45 p.m. Oct. 27, education funding 1 percent sales tax increase referendum. All meetings will take place at the Kankakee Public Library. Call the Farm Bureau office at 932-

C

Todd Price, left, director of Wagner Farm in Glenview, shows broom corn grown at the historic farm to Chicago high school students participating in Cook County Farm Bureau Foundation’s Agriculture Leadership Academy. (Photo by Diane Merrion)

Diane Merrion serves as Cook County Farm Bureau ag literacy coordinator.

County coalition grant program sets record

K

K

7471 for more information.

NOX — Farm Bureau will co-sponsor a women’s marketing workshop from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 3 at Monsanto Agronomy Center in Monmouth. Naomi Blohn, Stewart-Peterson, will speak. Call the Farm Bureau office at 3422036 for reservations by Oct. 27.

Space is limited.

IVINGSTON — Farm Bureau will co-sponsor a collection to purchase phone cards and items for military personnel to be delivered during the holidays. Checks should be made to “Phone Cards for Troops” and may be dropped off at the Farm Bureau office by Nov. 1.

ONROE — New plat books are available at the Farm Bureau office. Cost is $15 for members.

ANGAMON — The Women’s Committee will host a luncheon at 9:30 a.m. Nov. 6 at the Farm Bureau office. Registration and refreshments will be at 9:30 a.m.; Vonda Van Hooser-Laffey, licensed massage therapist, will speak at 10 a.m. and lunch will follow. Donations of hats, coats, gloves, food or money will be collected. Cost is $20 for members and $25 for nonmembers. Call the Farm Bureau office at 753-5200 for reservations by Nov. 1.

L

M S

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

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FarmWeek • Page 14 • Monday, October 20, 2014

Fertilizer: too little supply, too little demand — or both?

The outlook for the fall fertilizer season has for the past several months been dominated by expectations for tight supply. The big fear has been whether we would have enough supply. Outages last spring, especially predominant in local markets in Indiana and Ohio, helped Joe Dillier keep this view “fresh” in the mind of the market.

Several “compounding” factors have been at play: • As discussed last time, the

BY JOE DILLIER

fertilizer storage and distribution “system” in the U.S. was completely drained at the end of spring season as demand outstripped logistical resupply capabilities.

• A host of plant problems around the globe ate into production in recent months.

Anhydrous ammonia output has been curtailed by the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Natural gas shortages in Egypt and Trinidad throttled nitrogen output back. In potash, a cacophony of problems at various mines in western Canada caused production outages, and seemingly limitless import demand in Brazil kept competition for offshore imports strong. Most of the

Seed decision calculator introduced Facing lower soybean cash prices this year, farmers may be looking for opportunities to add to their bottom lines. Growing identity-preserved (IP) soybeans could prove an option for additional profit opportunities, but the costs can seem overwhelming to farmers thinking about getting started.

QUALISOY, a U.S. soy industry-led board, developed a calculator that can help farmers determine how much profit they can add by growing IP soybeans, including high oleic varieties.

The calculator, based on a Purdue University study, helps farmers navigate typical steps required to produce and segregate IP soybeans, and gives them an estimate of added profit potential. The United Soybean Board’s Value Task Force funded the study.

The calculator can be viewed at {soyinnovation.com/inputshandling}. IP opportunities available to soybean farmers include nonGMO, food-grade and high oleic soybeans. However, high oleic soybeans have easier handling procedures compared with other IP soybeans. The calculator takes those factors into consideration.

M A R K E T FA C T S Feeder pig prices reported to USDA* Total Composite Weighted Average Receipts and Price (Formula and Cash): Weight Range Per Head Weighted Ave. Price 10-12 lbs. (formula) $37.50-$61.48 $47.59 40 lbs. (cash) $78.00-$97.50 $87.92 Receipts

This Week 77,681 *Eastern Corn Belt prices picked up at seller’s farm

Last Week 87,727

Eastern Corn Belt direct hogs (plant delivered) Carcass Live

(Prices $ per hundredweight) This week Prev. week Change $98.21 $102.37 -$4.16 $72.68 $75.75 -$3.08

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

Steers Heifers

This week $164.19 $164.23

Prev. week $163.79 $163.94

Change $0.40 $0.29

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 $243.32 $239.35 $3.97

Lamb prices Negotiated, wooled and shorn, 84-151 lbs. for 148-175 $/cwt. (wtd. ave. 162.58)

Export inspections (Million bushels) Week ending Soybeans Wheat Corn 10/10/2014 52.5 15.6 36.8 10/3/2014 36.4 25.3 34.9 Last year 47.4 27.2 22.4 Season total 144.1 367.3 195.7 Previous season total 114.4 553.4 116.1 USDA projected total 1700 900 1750 Crop marketing year began June 1 for wheat and Sept. 1 for corn and soybeans.

production downtime would not have been a big issue had the inventory situation not been so depleted last spring.

• Finally, the logistics situation — tight rail car supply and limited barge availability — has caused delays.

Maybe farmers should simply wait for spring to apply fertilizer and “bypass” these issues altogether? Maybe fall demand will suddenly be too little? Maybe wet fall conditions will continue and hamper demand anyway? What would that situation look like?

If demand comes up short this fall, there will be carryover

inventory to deal with, which could be depressive for prices.

But that effect is probably offset by the need to put so much more supply through what could be an extremely intense spring season, which would tend to keep fertilizer prices firm for spring.

Some of the production issues above are slowly working themselves out, but others are not, and in a volatile global marketplace, these things are impossible to predict. The big additions to fertilizer supply capacity that will be coming on stream will hit the marketplace in 2016 and later.

Lastly, we don’t know what kind of winter we are going to get, but a winter like last year could set logistics capabilities back further and make in-season resupply very difficult just when it would be needed most.

With this year’s record yields, it appears good fertility played its part. And to avoid potential spring delays, good fertility seems like an investment worth making this fall, too.

Joe Dillier serves as GROWMARK’s director of plant food.

His email address is jdillier@ growmark.com.

Meat supplies forecast to rebound next year Tight meat supplies and high prices at the grocery store could ease a bit next year.

USDA projects an increase in pork and chicken/broiler production as farmers begin to rebuild herd and flock numbers.

In fact, pork production in 2015 was forecast to increase by 1.165 billion pounds compared to this year.

If realized, the pork industry would recover the 414 million pound reduction in production this year and more than double it next year.

Steve Meyer, president of Paragon Economics, believes the uptick in pork production could occur due to some herd expansion along with fewer losses to porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV).

USDA last month projected farrowings will increase 4 percent this quarter and 3.8 percent during the winter quarter.

“We think we’ll get some help (controlling PEDV) out of the vaccines (currently on the market),” Meyer told FarmWeek. “But it’s not a solution. We’re not going to eliminate it.”

Meyer predicts U.S. hog farmers still could encounter a lot of cases of PEDV as the weather chills this winter. But he believes death losses will be lower compared to last year.

The rate of baby pig losses due to PEDV peaked at 6 to 8 percent last winter, but declined to 2 to 3 percent in recent months.

“About 60 percent of the sows have been exposed to it,” Meyer said. “And, obviously, biosecurity will be better.”

Pork production slipped below year-ago levels every week since Aug. 8. Last week, pork production was down 4 percent from a year ago as a 6.4 percent decline in slaughter outweighed a 2.4 percent increase in weights, according to the CME Group Daily Livestock Report.

The situation sparked a counter-seasonal rally in the hog market in recent weeks. Meyer believes prices in the fourth quarter will trade sideways to slightly lower.

Next year, the economist predicts hog prices will hover in the $90s.

“Even with lower prices next year, profits will still be good because costs are so much lower,” Meyer said.

The wild cards in the hog market look to be PEDV and its impact on future pork production, and the overall demand picture.

“You have to think lower (hog) prices will help exports next year,” Meyer said. “But we have a dollar that’s strengthening some,” which could have a negative impact on exports.

USDA earlier this month projected broiler production next year will increase 2.9 percent.

Total beef production next year was pegged at 23.861 billion pounds, up 150 million pounds from the September forecast, but still down 2.4 percent from 2014 levels.

Wet, rainy weather conditions impact grain and cornstalk quality for cattle producers who normally utilize the crop residue to extend the grazing season, according to a University of Illinois Extension beef educator.

Travis Meteer noted excess rain causes leaching of nutrients available in cornstalks and decreases palatability of the crop residue. Lower intake of a less nutritious feed will result in poorer animal performance.

Grazing cornstalks remains a valuable tool for cattlemen looking to hold costs in place, Travis Meteer Meteer said. Even with lower palatability due to wet, damp stalks, cattle will eat the more digestible and higher protein portions first, he added.

“Therefore, a good mineral is probably the only supplementation needed for the first few weeks unless the herd includes fall-calving cows or stocker calves,” Meteer advised. “For them, a supplement will be necessary to meet nutrient demands of lactation and growth, respectively.”

Normally, 1 acre of cornstalks can feed a cow

for 30 days. If wet, rainy conditions persist, at least 2 to 3 acres will be needed due to faster degradation and more trampling of the residue.

Meteer said producers need to scout fields for several things. “First, look for ear drop and down corn areas. A significant amount of grain loss in fields can cause acidosis or founder in animals,” he said. “Fields with these areas will need careful management via strip grazing or completely fencing the problem areas out.

“Second, look for molds on remaining ears of corn. Some reports of Diplodia have been surfacing which will not cause major problems if ingested by cattle, but Diplodia will open the grain up to other fungus such as Fusarium and Gibberella. These molds can produce mycotoxins,” he added.

Because cattle select the grain portion first when grazing, Meteer explained that toxic levels can be ingested if low to moderate levels of mycotoxin are present.

“If the grain contains less than 1 part per million (ppm) of DON (vomitoxin) or less than 3 ppm of fumonisin or zearelenone, the cornstalks are likely safe to graze and the risk is very low,” he said.

BY DANIEL GRANT FarmWeek

Cattle farmers can use cornstalks despite wet weather

Corn Strategy

FSA keeps supply uncertainty intact

The good near-term weather picture will keep supply at the forefront of the trade, but not in a price-positive way given harvest activity. But last week’s latest preliminary data from USDA/FSA (Farm Service Agency) ensures supply will remain a part of the mix into the final production numbers coming on Jan. 12.

The latest FSA update on planting of program crops and prevent plant acreage didn’t show much increase for either corn or soybeans. There will be two more updates before USDA issues the final production estimates in January, on Nov. 13 and Dec. 15.

The latest data issued Oct. 15 didn’t generate much enthusiasm with the story about slow FSA data input still getting traction. Still, the relatively small acreage numbers for corn and soybeans leave the impression National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) may revise the planted/harvested numbers down further.

Using a historical relationship between the October FSA update and NASS numbers still leaves about 3.2 million acres of corn, 2.2 million of soybeans and nearly 1 million of wheat unaccounted for.

At the same time, the number of farms supposedly entered into the system, 2.28 million, is only about 15,000 less than the total entered a year ago. At 2,000 acres per farm, that would only be 3 million acres, but we aren’t certain how many acres these farm units represent.

But given the data we have to work with, it looks to us like

NASS’s downward adjustment of acreage in the October report might have been an interim measure. NASS only lowered corn acreage about 750,000 and soybean acreage 655,000. Wheat plantings were raised 348,000 in the Sept. 30 small grains report from what it had been using.

We doubt another adjustment gets made so soon in the November report. Instead, NASS will likely wait until the final report in January, a report it again uses to make adjustments. Interim FSA reports, especially the one in December should offer more insight.

Yield adjustments will be a part of the picture going forward, too, with each report offering some insight into what the next one might indicate.

We have looked at the specific details for corn and soybeans in the October report and how they compare historically.

For corn, the ear count tends to drop ever so slightly in November during these big crop years. Ear weights are steady at best with a small tendency to decline as well.

As a result, there’s a small chance the corn yield forecast could be reduced slightly in November.

For soybeans, the pod count numbers tend to increase some from the October count. Pod weight has had a tendency to go up, too, but no other year started with the pod weight at a record like it did this year.

And there is a modest inverse correlation between the two, leading us to still think the 47.1 bushel national yield might be close.

Each report tells us more about the crops, but as we said last week, we might have seen the most negative fundamental forecasts we might see for these crops.

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ü2013 crop: Corn futures have turned up out of what may potentially prove to be a season low. Higher prices are obtainable once we move past harvest and shift our focus toward prospects for demand.

At this point, if you still have old crop, storing it for the long haul should pay dividends. ü2014 crop: There is still reason to expect $4 cash prices next spring. If you need to price corn soon after harvest, use a move to $3.57 on December futures to make needed sales. If you move corn at harvest, have the basis locked up. vFundamentals: Futures have benefited in October from harvest delays and speculative money flows. Nearterm markets will be pressured by the promise of clear skies this week, but that does not mean we will see futures retreat back toward contract lows. While yields have been good so far, the trade has lofty expectations for total production. Illinois needs to see a statewide average of 200 bushels per acre, Iowa 185. If those numbers are not obtained, we will be hard pressed to make the USDA’s estimate for a 174 bushel per acre national average.

Page 15 • Monday, October 20, 2014 • FarmWeek Cents per bu.

Soybean Strategy

ü2014 crop: Expectations for a 4 billion bushel soybean crop are competing against prospects for strong demand that could lift prices once we get into the next calendar year.

If you need to price by the end of harvest, use a bounce to $9.70 on November futures. ü2015 crop: The first 15 percent of the 2015 crop was priced at $12.07 basis November 2015 futures. vFundamentals: Yield and acres could still face revisions from USDA, but changes are likely to be minor. That said, 3.9 to 4 billion bushels is a comfortable estimate for production. What will change going forward is our outlook for demand. Better crush and higher exports could do the work of chipping away at a projected 450 to 500 million bushel carryout. Crush will improve once more soybeans are made available to the

processors. Exports have been exceptional so far in the marketing year and may not taper off as quickly as usual if Brazilian acres continued to be threatened by drought.

Wheat Strategy

ü2014 crop: Wheat futures have accrued gains of more than 40 cents so far in the month of October. An important target for the December contract and catch-up sales should be made at $5.50. Producers able to continue carrying wheat may do so with the goal of resuming sales near $6. ü2015 crop: Better opportunities are likely for 2015 sales. vFundamentals: Our

outlook for the export program is beginning to perk up slightly. Sales for the week were up at 16.7 million bushels and add to a book that accounts for about 57 percent of the USDA’s 925 million bushel projection. International purchases from Russia and the Black Sea are waning now that exportable surpluses have been drawn down. France also had a fast start to the trade season, but quality issues there will disadvantage that major competitor down the road.

Near-term prices in Chicago will reflect planting delays for soft red wheat growers in the Midwestern corn and soybean states.

FarmWeek • Page 16 • Monday, October 20, 2014

National Cooperative Month: Built on serving others At the GROWMARK Annual Meeting in August, I spoke about four building blocks: planning, commitment, development and delivery. When done right, these blocks build success in many aspects of life, from a farm to a family, and even to a cooperative system.

The GROWMARK John Reifsteck System began with a plan nearly 90 years ago when Illinois Farm Bureau members joined together to secure a reliable supply of quality fuel for their farm machinery. Over the years, our system has grown to include more than 40 states plus the province of Ontario, and a diverse array of products and services focused on our mission of improving the long-term profitability of our member-owners.

We’ve made commitments to our JOHN REIFSTECK

mission, to the seven cooperative principles and to a set of values created more than 50 years ago. These include maintenance of sound financial policies and practices, operation in an ethical manner, preservation of member ownership and control, support for the Farm Bureau, and promotion of the welfare of the community and environmental stewardship.

Because of these commitments, we are leaders in sustainable agricultural practices and are highly regarded for our expertise in a variety of arenas.

Development is essential to maintaining a successful business over time. We’re continually looking to invest in projects and infrastructure that will benefit our members at all levels and make us more efficient as a system. By investing in our people, we are able to ensure a level of proficiency and service on which our members can rely. I believe the GROWMARK System has the best trained people, who make it their business to provide the highest quality recommendations

in the industry.

Our people also deliver — sometimes quite literally! I know of many instances of FS and GROWMARK employees taking the initiative to do whatever it takes to serve you, our members. Our attitude toward customer service goes above and beyond because we know that our customers are also our owners.

October is designated National Cooperative Month in the United States — a time to recognize and celebrate the contributions cooperatives make to all aspects of society. More than 29,000 businesses in the United States are cooperatives, providing products and services to their member-owners in nearly every economic sector, from grocery stores to electricity providers to credit unions to

farm supply.

Sometimes I wonder, when Farm Bureau members came together to form the first FS cooperatives, could those men have envisioned where the GROWMARK System would be today? When they placed the first building blocks in place more than 85 years ago, did they dream that we would now employ more than 7,000 people who serve more than 250,000 customers in more than 40 states and Ontario, Canada?

That solid foundation is maintained by the continued support of your local GROWMARK, grain and FS member cooperatives. Your commitments to building strong relationships are the bricks and mortar that will help us reach greater heights. On behalf of the GROWMARK System, I thank you.

John Reifsteck serves as GROWMARK chairman and president of the board. His email address is jreifsteck@ gmkboard.com.

Election 2014: Research issues, get involved, vote

Many believe the political affairs in Illinois are broken. It is my fault. It is not the politicians’ fault — it is my fault.

Maybe it is your fault, too! We elected them. Does the problem solely lie on myself and other voters who have not practiced due diligence before going to the polls?

First, I apologize for broaching a subject that many of us do not like — politics. Perhaps you and I are overlooking something very important. If we are not happy with what is going on with our political leadership, maybe we are not making good choices.

Perhaps the best opportunity to institute some real change was during the primary elections. By now, the two political parties may have firmly entrenched their ideology and power over the candidates?

Is it possible that the outcome of future political races could have more bearing on the success of my farming career than my actual proficiency at farming? One has to wonder given the current political and financial stability of the state Illinois.

Next month, an important election will take place in Illinois. Unfortunately, some have never registered to vote and many that have will not vote. Is that bad? My answer is conflicted.

One could argue that if you are not proficient on a candidate’s stance on issues and are just voting name recognition or party affiliation, it might be best JOHN KIEFNER

if you do not cast a ballot. Is it possible for voters to determine an election result swayed solely by the excessive amount of money a candidate spends in a campaign to achieve name recognition?

I have been asked by a friend to host a meet and greet for a candidate. I have deferred this request for the same reason I defer many other things — work. I was raised that work always comes first. This is the time of year I seldom inject any activity other than the work of harvesting my crops so that I can finish the growing season before wintry weather arrives. In the short-term interest of my own personal financial security, am I sacrificing something more important?

There are 15 days to the next election. Will I get involved? Will I work for a candidate I believe is good for Illinois? Will I learn about all the candidates and their positions on issues before I vote? Will you do the same? If not, I can keep repeating one of my favorite quotes about democratic government, “Democracy, the best government money can buy.”

I think many of us need to do a better job before we cast our ballot or we will keep getting the government we deserve.

John Kiefner farms 600 acres in Will County. He raises corn, soybeans, wheat, hay and oats, and horses, donkeys, goats, chickens and honeybees. This column first appeared in the Farmers Weekly Review.

Several options to cast votes

BY KAY SHIPMAN FarmWeek

Nov. 4 not work for your schedule? No worries. Registered voters may choose to vote by absentee ballot or participate in early voting.

Early voting starts Monday and continues through Nov. 2, according to the Illinois State Board of Elections.

Individuals interested in early voting need to check with local election authorities for polling places and early voting hours at each location.

Early voting polling locations may be obtained online by visiting {elections.state.il.us/votinginformation/earlyvotinglocations.aspx} and entering either a county or city election authority.

Votes cast during early voting will not be counted until after the polls close Nov. 4.

Voting by absentee ballot offers another option to vote in the fall general election. Individuals applying for an absentee ballot face two deadlines. Election authorities must receive an absentee ballot application in the mail by Oct. 30. They must receive an application in person

by Nov. 3. All absentee ballots must be posted by midnight Nov. 3 and must be received within 14 days of the election.

Absentee voting information may be found online by visiting {elec tions.il.gov/downloads/electioninformation/pdf/absevote.pdf}.

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Consider submitting a Letter to the Editor. Please limit your letter to 300 words.

Include your name, address and phone number. Your phone number will not be published; it will simply help us verify letter authorship.

Only one letter per writer will be accepted in a 60-day period.

All letters will be subject to editing. Far mWeek will not publish political endorsements.

You can mail letters to: FarmWeek Letters, 1701 Towanda Ave., Bloomington, Ill. 61701, or email CAnderson@ilfb.org.