Farm meeting is March 8 glyphosate tolerant weeds and herbicide selection by Robert Hartzler, Extension weed management specialist; and grain price outlook and changes in crop insurance products for 2011 by Kelvin Leibold, Extension farm management specialist. The annual meeting of the Northern Iowa Research Association will be conducted from 11:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Membership in the Association is not required to attend this meeting. Certified crop advisor CEU credit has been requested. A $15 fee will be charged for CCA credit. This meeting is free and open to the public. Contact your local ISU Extension Office for additional information.
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ISU wins grant for corn study
CORN IS IN THINGS YOU USE EVERYDAY!
AMES, Iowa (AP) — Iowa State University has won a $20 million grant to conduct and oversee research on how climate affects corn crops. Iowa State says it will coordinate the work of 42 scientists from 10 universities and two U.S. Department of Agriculture research institutions in nine north-central states. The five-year project will collect and analyze data from fields that produce nearly 65 percent of the nation's corn. The researchers will combine field and climate data to formulate models and evaluate crop management practices.
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generation of farmers taking over. "The social contract that farming has with the general public is changing and what was once tolerated and acceptable in agriculture is not acceptable to the general public who say 'We want to move away from those high death rates,'" he said. "As a new generation comes up there will be a different expectation." Meanwhile, OSHA has been taking a tougher stance on violations of current safety standards. Haasbach LLC was fined $555,000 for two dozen safety violations after the accident that killed the teenagers in Illinois, and Michaels said it will con-
sider pursuing criminal charges against grain handlers involved in accidents. "None of these would have occurred if simple procedures would have been followed," he said. "You don't blame the grain." The letter OSHA is sending grain storage operators outlines seven steps that should be taken to reduce the risk of injury or death, including turning off augers and other power equipment before entering bins; prohibiting walking on grain; providing a body harness with a lifeline for anyone going into a grain bin; and making sure there's someone outside the bin who can
help if something goes wrong. Small farmers who store their own grain also need to take the proper precautions before entering bins, Michaels said. "I'd say think twice, then think again before you considering endangering yourself or your family," he said. But Steinhoff said he doesn't think the push for increased safety will make much difference. "I don't know any farmer that would tie himself off, they go in just like I did," he said. "They know the chances, but you know it's never going to happen to you. I'm not saying it's right, but it's human nature."
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The annual meeting and educational program of the Northern Iowa Research Farm will be held March 8 at the Heartland Museum in Clarion. Coffee and refreshments will be served at 8:30 a.m., with the program beginning at 9 a.m. There is a sponsored lunch at 12 p.m. and the program will conclude at 1:45. The Heartland Museum is located at 119 Ninth St. S.W., Clarion. Please call 641-923-2856 or 515-5323453 to pre-register for this meeting by March 3. Topics and speakers include corn development and management by Lori Abendroth, Extension agronomist; background and management of soybean sudden death syndrome by Alison Robertson, Extension plant pathologist;
CORN 2011
12 • February 23, 2011
February 23, 2011 A supplement to
SALUTE TO CORN
2 • February 23, 2011
Summit • News-Tribune
This year’s planting season should be right on track Farmers predict a good start to the 2011 corn growing season following one of the wettest years on record By Megan VerHelst Salute to Corn Last year’s corn-growing season may have been full of extremes, but it shouldn’t have any effect on farmers when they climb into their tractors for the first time this year. A warm, wet summer preceded by an unusually dry fall made for a quick, successful harvest for area farmers last year. Although many factors make it difficult to predict the outlook for area crops, many are confident this year’s growing season will begin as smoothly as the last one ended. “Each year is different,” said Randy Broesder, manager of the Farmers Cooperative elevator in Forest City. “But with the weather we’ve had recently, we should have adequate subsoil moisture going into this year, which is a plus. “After that, though, it’s anyone’s guess.” Last summer marked one of the wettest area farmers have seen in awhile, said Kevin Propes,
agronomist with North Central Cooperative in Woden and Hutchins.This caused above average nitrogen loss in some corn crops, a natural process that takes place to ensure the crop makes it through the season. Moisture amounts varied throughout a small area, Propes said. “It brought some challenges to growers,” Propes said. “It reduced some yields in areas south of Highway 18, but in our neck of the woods, we didn’t experience as much of that. “We probably didn’t get the moisture they experienced in areas south of here.” Broesder called this area the “garden spot.” “Last year actually was very good,” he said. “Crops were good quality, and yields in this area were good.” As fall approached, area weather became increasingly dry. Farmers went straight to corn once they finished harvesting beans to avoid the crop losing more moisture, Propes
said. “I don’t think there were any breaks taken as far as harvest goes last year – and I don’t think I’ve ever seen that before,” he said. As farmers brought their corn to area cooperatives, little of it required additional drying. “I’m not sure there was any that actually had to go through a corn dryer,” Propes said. The loss of moisture did have an effect on some yields, Propes said, but it Farmers in North Iowa typically begin planting corn in mid-April and harvest it in early was still an “excellent October, although weather plays a key role in the actual date. harvest,” even allowing farmers extra time to complete a variety of typically comes to a close the beginning of October. other tasks on their land. Broesder said last year’s Corn planting usually “Big & Small, begins in mid-April, growing season should We Have Them All” have little impact on this Propes said, provided year’s season. ground conditions are C Propes agreed, adding good and the forecast shows warm, favorable each season usually is weather. In the latter part dependent on area weathof May, farmers will apply er. “As far as this spring, herbicides to their corn my prediction is we’re crops. looking at a normal one as Some farmers choose to of right now, ” Propes said. apply fungicides around “I don’t foresee anything July 4, usually the same that would cause it to be time the corn is tasseled. The corn growing season different.”
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which measures global supply and demand for grains, oilseeds and other crops, said its projections for wheat and soybean stocks remained unchanged at historical low levels for reserves. Corn prices have already doubled in the last six months, rising from $3.50 a bushel to more than $7 a bushel. Consumers won't see the broader impact right away. It takes months for higher grain costs to work their way through the food system and show up at the grocery store. The cost of corn and soybeans represents just 10 percent of the total cost of food, and big processors such as General Mills Inc. are hesitant to pass along those costs quickly to consumers. Still, companies such as Hormel Foods Corp.
have already announced price hikes for 2011 to cover the increases. Hormel said prices will rise by about 3 percent on a variety of products, from Spam to canned soups. Rising grain costs hit meat producers first. Tyson Foods, the nation's biggest meat company, says it is aiming to cut $200 million in operational costs to offset higher corn and soybean costs. CEO Donnie Smith calls that the "new normal" price range. Tyson said chicken, beef and pork prices are expect to rise, if only slightly, this year as producers seek to cover costs. Shares of meat producers like Tyson, Smithfield Foods and Pilgrim's Pride opened lower Wednesday, falling less than 1 percent in early trading.
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ST. LOUIS (AP) — U.S. reserves of corn have hit their lowest level in more than 15 years, reflecting tighter supplies that will lead to higher food prices in 2011. Increasing demand for corn from the ethanol industry is a major reason for the decline. The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported Feb. 9 that the ethanol industry's projected orders this year rose 8.4 percent, to 13.01 billion bushels, after recordhigh production in December and January. That means the United States will have about 675 million bushels of corn left over at the end of year. That's roughly 5 percent of all corn that will be consumed, the lowest surplus level since 1996. The USDA report,
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Corn reserves hit lowest level in 15 years
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SALUTE TO CORN
10 • February 23, 2011
Summit • News-Tribune
Corn production nationwide smashes the previous record
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U.S. corn production records shattered as we see that seed technology, and efficiency continue to improve the way corn growers do their job. The USDA recently announced that U.S. farmers pulled off the largest corn and soybean crops on record, according to the Crop Production 2009 Summary released today by National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). Corn production is a staggering 13.2 billion bushels, nearly 10 percent higher than the 2008 crop year. Most impressive is even with nationwide weather challenges from hail, to rain, to snow, corn yields reached an all-time high in 2009 at 165.2 bushels
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The Poet Biorefinery near Hanlontown is one of Iowa’s many ethanol plants. The facility uses about 19 million bushels of corn each year and produces about 56 million gallons of ethanol per year.
ETHANOL FACTS
■ Right now ethanol is made from corn, but new technologies are in development that will allow it to be made from other plant material as well, such as corn stalks, wood chips, switch grass, and a variety of other sources. ■ Iowa has been the leader in the development of efficient ethanol production. The state currently has 29 ethanol refineries with the capacity to produce nearly 2 billion gallons annually. In addition, 18 ethanol refineries are under construction or expansion that will add nearly 1.4 billion gallons of annual capacity.
■ This new industry has created hundreds of jobs across the state and added billions of dollars to the state’s economy. ■ The new plants produce approximately 2.8 gallons of ethanol and 17 pounds of feed co-products, called distillers grains, from just one bushel of corn. ■ Most of the gasoline in Iowa includes 10 percent ethanol and E85, which is 85 percent ethanol and just 15 percent gasoline, is becoming more widely available.
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per acre, well above the 160.3 bushels per acre set in 2004. “With those production numbers, nationwide corn production would be equal to threefourths of a trillion pounds,” said Tim Burrack, a farmer from northeast Iowa and chairman of the Iowa Corn Promotion Board. “With the U.S population at 304 million, that’s enough corn for every person in the U.S. to consume 2,431 pounds of corn; plenty for all food, feed, fuel, and fiber needs. This once again demonstrates that the food versus fuel argument is complete false.” In Iowa, where corn is a champion in the fields, corn production numbers are up from 12.8 in
2008 to 13.4 in 2009. But, not all the corn is on the barge, in the bin, or on the rail cars. In parts of Iowa, corn remains standing in the snow waiting for a combine. “The staggering numbers released today are a true reflection of the value of new traits and hybrids available to farmers.” said Burrack, who experienced one of the latest harvest seasons in his 37 years of farming. “Never underestimate the capacity of the corn grower to produce under even the most challenging weather conditions.”
■ Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska and Minnesota account for over 50 percent of the corn grown in the U.S. Other major corn growing states are Indiana, Ohio, Wisconsin, South Dakota, Michigan, Missouri, Kansas and Kentucky.
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■ The area known as the "Pacific Rim" region (in Asia) is emerging as the world's fastest growing market for U.S. corn. There, most of the corn is fed to livestock to produce food for humans. The majority of the world's population is located in the Pacific Rim region.
■ The "Corn Belt" includes the states of Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska, Minnesota, Indiana, Ohio, Wisconsin, South Dakota, Michigan, Missouri, Kansas and Kentucky.
■ Exports are critical to the well being of American agriculture. Nearly one third of our nation's corn crop is targeted for exports.
■ Corn is produced on every continent with the exception of Antarctica.
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February 23, 2011 • 3
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■ Ethanol is a high-octane fuel made from renewable sources that reduces air pollution, replaces imported oil and improves automobile performance.
SALUTE TO CORN
News-Tribune • Summit
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SALUTE TO CORN
4 • February 23, 2011
Summit • News-Tribune
“We do get plenty of people asking if a vehicle is E85 compatible,” Peterson said. When people do buy such a vehicle, “we fill it up with E85,” Peterson said.
PHOTOS BY RAE YOST
Several area car dealerships, including Forest City Ford and Chrysler of Forest City are offering vehicles using E85 fuel, including the Ford F-150, above, and the Chrysler Town & Country, at right. Many other makes and models are available at area dealers. Gas stations carrying E85 can be found in Forest City.
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Although it’s not overwhelming, car dealerships are getting asked about vehicles that can use E85 fuel. “We are getting asked more,” said Scott Loges of Chrysler of Forest City. Steve Woodbury, service manager of Pritchard’s in Britt said he gets asked about usng E85 in older vehicles or converting those vehicles to run with E85. Vehicle owners also ask similar questions at Forest City Ford, Ben Peterson said. People in the region are aware E85 is an ethanol product and that production is critical to this agricultural area, car dealers said. Brian Wolfe of Lichtsinn Motors in Forest City moved from Wisconsin to Iowa. “There is much more loyal folks who support E85(here),” Wolfe said. “It’s not so much they won’t buy a vehicle if it’s not E85 but I notice that it’s one of the first questions people ask if a vehicle can use E85.” Some buyers do make their decision based on E85, Loges said. “We have farmers that will only buy the flex fuel vehicles,” Loges said. Peterson, too, said there are customer who
will buy only E85 vehicles. People who own E85 vehicles do have places to buy fuel in Iowa. The Iowa Corn Growers Association website said Iowa has 150 sites to buy the fuel. Sites in the region include the Cenex station in Forest City, Kum & Gos in Clear Lake and others. Minnesota has 364 sites, the Iowa Corn Growers website said. Drivers who use E85 are paying less at the pump but will get fewer miles to the gallon. Wolfe said drivers are willing to get that trade off, especially to support the agricultural economy. The representatives of the dealerships said interest in E85 will continue and vehicles that can use E85 will continue to be made.
February 23, 2011 • 9
Record number of grain bin accidents in 2010
Interest in fuel-efficient E85 vehicles is growing in the area By Rae Yost Salute to Corn
SALUTE TO CORN
News-Tribune • Summit
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DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Clumps of moldy corn crashed down around Lael Steinhoff, burying him above his waist for more than three hours before rescue workers could free him from a grain bin on his western Iowa farm. Steinhoff, 61, was one of the lucky survivors last year when a record number of grain bin accidents were recorded as U.S. farmers continued to increase production and deal with storage of a wet crop from 2009. A Purdue University report showed 51 grain bin accidents last year, up from 38 in 2009 and the most since tracking began in 1978. Twenty-five people died, and five of them were children under age 16. The previous record for grain bin accidents was 42 in 1993. The accidents prompted the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to send letters this week to 10,000 grain bin operators across the U.S. telling them they are responsible for preventing the deaths of their workers in grain bins. "Too many people have been killed. Too many children have been killed," said David Michaels, assistant secretary of labor for OSHA. "It doesn't make a difference the size of the operation, the risk is serious. The letters follow a batch OSHA sent last summer to 3,000 grain storage operators after three people died in two accidents at storage facilities in Illinois. One of the
accidents involved two teenagers who were sent into a grain bin at a Haasbach LLC terminal in Mount Carroll, Ill., to break up grain that had clumped together. The bin, which held up to 500,000 bushels, was about half full, and rescue workers had to cut holes in its sides and drain thousands of bushels of grain to reach their bodies. Bill Field, a Purdue University professor who has studied grain bin accidents for 30 years, said such accidents had already been becoming more common when there was a spike after the 2009 harvest.
"What we had throughout the Corn Belt was high levels of moisture and some was put into storage and began to spoil," Field said. "That caused a problem with mold and grain caking together and not being able to flow out of the bin." Storage facility workers and farmers have been climbing into bins to break up the grain and get it flowing again. Steinhoff, who lives near Hornick, said he got trapped while trying to free up corn that had clumped and was blocking the flow from the auger, a piece of machinery that moves grain out of the bin. Rescue crews
built a plywood box around him and used a shop vacuum to remove corn close to him and lift him to safety. He was flown by helicopter to a Sioux City hospital but was released after just two hours. Although he'd been stuck before, he said it was the first time he had to be rescued. Field said the huge increase in grain production in recent years and construction of more bins also has been a factor in the increase in accidents. "We've been producing
an incredible amount of grain and have more storage capacity than ever," he said. "We are growing more to make ethanol, and we're hanging on to corn longer trying to obtain the highest price we can and that increases the risk of spoilage." The bulk of the grain bin accidents have been in major corn and soybean growing states. Illinois led the country with 10 accidents last year, followed by Minnesota with eight. Wisconsin had seven, and five were reported in Iowa.
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Grain bin accidents have continue to rise as other types of agricultural accidents have decreased. Field said that's because technology in that sector hasn't kept up with improvements in other areas, such as tractor safety. Improvements are needed in design, safe access to grain bins and the ability to rescue people who become trapped, he said. He believes that will happen with a new
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Summit • News-Tribune
Iowa corn fueled this year’s Daytona 500 The Daytona 500 is not only the first race of the NASCAR season, and arguably the biggest race of the year, but it also sets the stage for the season. This year, it also sets the stage for the “greening” of NASCAR with Sunoco Green E15 ethanol. As the cars hit the track in Daytona, NASCAR fans may have noticed a new green ethanol flag starting the race and 120,000 fans with their own flags to wave and mark the occasion, not to mention the corn ethanol that will be literally fueling the cars. “American Ethanol
entered into this new partnership with the focused goal of bringing a positive ethanol message to consumers who don’t know about corn ethanol and its benefits or have heard inaccurate information.” said Craig Floss, CEO for Iowa Corn. “At NASCAR’s kickoff event, corn growers from Iowa joined nearly 40 corn growers from 15 states in attendance at Daytona who were looking for promotional opportunities, ways to relate to race fans and how to take this information back to their home states for upcoming races.”
Iowa Corn participated in a Daytona 500 watch party with the Iowa Speedway on Feb. 20. Iowa Corn Growers Association members got in for a price to watch the action. Iowa Corn was promoting American Ethanol with special giveaways. Corn Growers from across the nation have invested their hard earned dollars in ethanol research, market development and co-product development; however, the new relationship
with NASCAR, Growth Energy and the American Ethanol will put corn ethanol on a national stage in a way consumers have never seen it before. Floss said, “Through the 2011 NASCAR season, over 75 million US consumers will learn more about what ethanol has to offer by watching a race either in person, on TV or both, and it all started with Daytona this past weekend.”
Are you READY . . .
Order tickets now for ICGA Corn Indy 250 It’s that time of year again. The exclusive Iowa Corn Growers Association membership ticket offer starts today, and what a great way to say thank you or show a loved one how much they mean to you. This year the discount is greater than ever with tickets priced at only $45 for the best seats in the house and great hospitality in the Iowa Corn Member tent. The Iowa Speedway has made ordering tickets even easier this year by creating an online ticket purchasing portal on the Iowa Speedway website. The website link and offer
code are below. Don’t miss out on the 2011 Iowa Corn Indy 250 on Saturday, June 25, under the lights at 8 p.m. For more information, or to purchase tickets, go to the website www.iowaspeedway.com /iowacorn2011.
■ Your bacon and eggbreakfast, glass of milk at lunch or hamburger for supper were all produced with U.S. corn. ■ Corn is a major component in many food items like cereals, peanut butter, snack foods and soft drinks. ■ U.S. researchers have led the way in finding many uses for corn like in vitamins and
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Iowa farmers applaud baby step for E15 fuel use Iowa corn farmers, Bert and Kay Vandenberg, wrote a letter to President Jimmy Carter encouraging the use of corn ethanol to extend our ethanol supplies and decrease our dependence on foreign oil. That letter was dated July 1978. Today, farmers in Iowa are applauding the next small step for ethanol usage and working on the next step to increase ethanol use across the U.S. In response to a request by Growth Energy under section 211(f)(4) of the Clean Air Act, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has partially granted a waiver to allow fuel and fuel additive manufacturers to introduce into commerce gasoline that contains greater than 10 volume percent (vol%) ethanol and up to 15 vol% ethanol (E15) for use in model year (MY) 2001 and newer light-duty motor vehicles, subject to several conditions. On Oct. 13, 2010, EPA granted a partial waiver for E15 for use in MY2007 and newer light-duty vehicles (i.e., cars, lightduty trucks and mediumduty passenger vehicles). On Jan. 21, EPA granted a partial waiver for E15 for use in MY2001-2006 light-duty motor vehicles. These decisions
were based on test results provided by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and other information regarding the potential effect of E15 on vehicle emissions. Taken together, the two actions allow, but do not require, E15 to be introduced into commerce for use in MY2001 and newer light-duty motor vehicles if conditions for mitigating misfueling and ensuring fuel quality are met. EPA is in the process of completing work on regulations that would provide a more practical means of meeting the conditions.
■ An ear of corn averages 800 kernels in 16 rows. ■ A pound of corn consists of approximately 1,300 kernels. ■ 100 bushels of corn produces approximately 7,280,000 kernels. ■ Each year, a single U.S. farmer provides food and fiber for 129 people - 97 in the U.S.
■ Over 55 percent of Iowa's corn goes to foreign markets. The rest is used in other parts of the United States.
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Call 888-273-5553 to place an ad today.
SALUTE TO CORN
6 • February 23, 2011
Summit • News-Tribune
Corn is an important part of Iowa’s livestock market By Rae Yost Salute to Corn Livestock needs corn and corn needs livestock. It's a relationship that is critical to the agricultural economy. Lynn Hagenson, a grain farmer in Winnebago County and a member of the board of the Farmers Cooperative Association of Forest City said there are three primary markets for corn. "One is food for feeding livestock," Hagenson said. "The second is fuel (ethanol) and third, exports." "Our grain around here is used mostly for livestock food or fuel," Hagenson said. "My position as a grain producer is that both are important," Wayne Johnson, who farms near Forest City. "I want to see both the livestock and the ethanol industry be profitable." Johnson sells to ethanol plants and to the
livestock industry. "Most goes to chicken and hogs," Johnson said. The Farmers Cooperative elevator also sells to the livestock industry, said general manager Randy Broesder. Much of the grain for livestock goes to the Christensen Feed Mill, he said. The elevator sells about $8.5 million worth of corn to the feed mill each year, Broesder said. Another million is sold to other livestock producers in the area, Broesder said. Swine is the dominant consumer of corn as feed in the area, Broesder said. Hagenson said the balance between getting a good price for corn and making it affordable as a feed for livestock can be difficult. "You are seeing less and less of mixture of grain and livestock farmers," Hagenson said. More and more farm-
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ers are specializing in grain or livestock, Hagenson said. Johnson said it's important to have multiple markets within the livestock industry. The Christensen Feed Mill and the Rembrandt chicken production farms all create needs for corn, Johnson said. One of the primary uses for corn grown in Winnebago County is animal feed. Farmers "Our feed mills and Cooperative in Forest City sells about $8.5 million worth of corn each year to Christensen producers here create a Feed Mill. Pigs are the dominant consumer of corn feed in the area. demand here," Johnson said. "That's value added to grain farms. Grain here in North Iowa." farmers farm more acres The producers and the and livestock producers employees of a feed mill have larger facilities or or production facility contract with corporaspend money in the tions to provide animals. region, Johnson said. Broesder said livestock "They buy groceries, producers continue to gas...," Johnson said. face challenges with That's true with environmental regulaemployees at local tions that make it diffiethanol plants and the cult to build new facilifarmers that produce the ties or expand existing corn for the plants, facilities. Johnson said. For LIVESTOCK, Livestock production see page 7. has grown in size similar
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SALUTE TO CORN
News-Tribune • Summit
Britt, Iowa 641-843-3894; Mon.-Fri. 8-:30; Sat. 8-4 WEB SITE: swensondoitbest.com
In a uniquely mom-driven campaign, farm women from across the country are talking to other women about food production, food safety and farm life. Iowa is a pilot state for CommonGround, a joint project of the National Corn Growers Association and the United Soybean Board that showcases what farm families and the consumers of the food they grow have in common. The Iowa Corn Growers Association and Iowa Soybean Association are working together to coordinate the pilot project. Iowa’s three volunteer spokeswomen are Suzanne Shirbroun from northeast Iowa, Jill Vander Veen of northwest Iowa and Sara Ross of southwest Iowa. The Iowa outreach effort offi-
cially launched Saturday, Feb. 5, at West Lakes Hy-Vee in West Des Moines. The farm women talked to shoppers and answered questions about today’s food production. “We were asked very diverse questions by shoppers during our launch, and I’m impressed by the knowledge consumers have about their food, and their willingness to take a few moments from their day to ask questions,” Shirbroun said. Each of Iowa’s spokeswomen will develop their own outreach program in their area of the state that will include social media, grocery store promotions, speaking to civic organizations and other events. “The goal of the program is to share that, thanks to today’s American farmers like us, con-
sumers enjoy the safest, healthiest and most affordable food choices in the world,” Vander Veen said. "There is information reaching the consumer, but it’s not always the whole story and farmers are concerned about that,” says Ross. "We’re not out to change anyone’s mind about the food they eat, but we do want consumers to know the food we grow is safe." The other pilot states are Nebraska, South Dakota, Kentucky and Indiana. For more information about Iowa’s CommonGround project, visit http://findourcommonground.co m/.
February 23, 2011 • 7 LIVESTOCK: FROM PAGE 6 "In the last three years it's really changed," Broesder said. "Regulations are making it rougher." Broesder said his role as an elevator general manager means he will advocate for the livestock industry. People "don't get it as
much anymore as we used to," Broesder said of the public's understanding of the relationship between livestock and grain. "We are still not bad in Iowa, but in other parts of the world it's terrible."
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GLOBAL CORN PRODUCTION Argentina Brazil Canada China Egypt India Indonesia Mexico Nigeria Philippines Romania Serbia South Africa Thailand Turkey Ukraine EU-25 Others United States
2003-04 2004-05 15,000 19,500 42,000 35,500 9,600 8,836 115,830 128,000 5,740 5,780 14,720 13,600 6,350 6,500 21,800 22,000 5,500 6,500 4,845 5,100 7,020 12,000 3,800 6,274 9,700 12,000 4,100 4,000 2,800 3,000 6,850 8,800 39,861 53,350 51,917 55,606 256,278 299,917
TOTAL
623,711 706,263
Information courtesy of Soyatech
SHOW WINTER WHO’S BOSS.
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1 Offer valid from 10/30/2010 until 2/28/2011. Subject to approved credit on John Deere Credit Revolving Plan, a service of FPC Financial, f.s.b. 3.9% APR is for 60 months only. Excludes ProGator and Gator TX-Turf. Other special rates and terms may be available, including installment financing. Available at participating dealers. Prices and models may vary by dealer. *Engine horsepower is provided by engine manufacturer for comparison purposes. Actual operating horsepower may be less. John Deere’s green and yellow color scheme, the leaping deer symbol and JOHN DEERE are trademarks of Deere & Company.
MS-22571
SALUTE TO CORN
6 • February 23, 2011
Summit • News-Tribune
Corn is an important part of Iowa’s livestock market By Rae Yost Salute to Corn Livestock needs corn and corn needs livestock. It's a relationship that is critical to the agricultural economy. Lynn Hagenson, a grain farmer in Winnebago County and a member of the board of the Farmers Cooperative Association of Forest City said there are three primary markets for corn. "One is food for feeding livestock," Hagenson said. "The second is fuel (ethanol) and third, exports." "Our grain around here is used mostly for livestock food or fuel," Hagenson said. "My position as a grain producer is that both are important," Wayne Johnson, who farms near Forest City. "I want to see both the livestock and the ethanol industry be profitable." Johnson sells to ethanol plants and to the
livestock industry. "Most goes to chicken and hogs," Johnson said. The Farmers Cooperative elevator also sells to the livestock industry, said general manager Randy Broesder. Much of the grain for livestock goes to the Christensen Feed Mill, he said. The elevator sells about $8.5 million worth of corn to the feed mill each year, Broesder said. Another million is sold to other livestock producers in the area, Broesder said. Swine is the dominant consumer of corn as feed in the area, Broesder said. Hagenson said the balance between getting a good price for corn and making it affordable as a feed for livestock can be difficult. "You are seeing less and less of mixture of grain and livestock farmers," Hagenson said. More and more farm-
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• Automotive • Industrial Factory Trained-Factory Authorized-Diesel Fuel Injection Service Authorized to provide warranty repair for Robert Bosch, Stanadyne, Delphi, Denso & ZEXEL
Corn, soybean farmers launch CommonGround
ers are specializing in grain or livestock, Hagenson said. Johnson said it's important to have multiple markets within the livestock industry. The Christensen Feed Mill and the Rembrandt chicken production farms all create needs for corn, Johnson said. One of the primary uses for corn grown in Winnebago County is animal feed. Farmers "Our feed mills and Cooperative in Forest City sells about $8.5 million worth of corn each year to Christensen producers here create a Feed Mill. Pigs are the dominant consumer of corn feed in the area. demand here," Johnson said. "That's value added to grain farms. Grain here in North Iowa." farmers farm more acres The producers and the and livestock producers employees of a feed mill have larger facilities or or production facility contract with corporaspend money in the tions to provide animals. region, Johnson said. Broesder said livestock "They buy groceries, producers continue to gas...," Johnson said. face challenges with That's true with environmental regulaemployees at local tions that make it diffiethanol plants and the cult to build new facilifarmers that produce the ties or expand existing corn for the plants, facilities. Johnson said. For LIVESTOCK, Livestock production see page 7. has grown in size similar
YOUR COMPLETE SEED HEADQUARTERS
641-324-2010
JIM CRONE SEEDS
Robert Bosch • American Bosch • Simms • Denso • ZEXEL Roosa Master • Schwitzer • Garrett • Holset • M&W • Rajay • C A V MS-22433
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SALUTE TO CORN
News-Tribune • Summit
Britt, Iowa 641-843-3894; Mon.-Fri. 8-:30; Sat. 8-4 WEB SITE: swensondoitbest.com
In a uniquely mom-driven campaign, farm women from across the country are talking to other women about food production, food safety and farm life. Iowa is a pilot state for CommonGround, a joint project of the National Corn Growers Association and the United Soybean Board that showcases what farm families and the consumers of the food they grow have in common. The Iowa Corn Growers Association and Iowa Soybean Association are working together to coordinate the pilot project. Iowa’s three volunteer spokeswomen are Suzanne Shirbroun from northeast Iowa, Jill Vander Veen of northwest Iowa and Sara Ross of southwest Iowa. The Iowa outreach effort offi-
cially launched Saturday, Feb. 5, at West Lakes Hy-Vee in West Des Moines. The farm women talked to shoppers and answered questions about today’s food production. “We were asked very diverse questions by shoppers during our launch, and I’m impressed by the knowledge consumers have about their food, and their willingness to take a few moments from their day to ask questions,” Shirbroun said. Each of Iowa’s spokeswomen will develop their own outreach program in their area of the state that will include social media, grocery store promotions, speaking to civic organizations and other events. “The goal of the program is to share that, thanks to today’s American farmers like us, con-
sumers enjoy the safest, healthiest and most affordable food choices in the world,” Vander Veen said. "There is information reaching the consumer, but it’s not always the whole story and farmers are concerned about that,” says Ross. "We’re not out to change anyone’s mind about the food they eat, but we do want consumers to know the food we grow is safe." The other pilot states are Nebraska, South Dakota, Kentucky and Indiana. For more information about Iowa’s CommonGround project, visit http://findourcommonground.co m/.
February 23, 2011 • 7 LIVESTOCK: FROM PAGE 6 "In the last three years it's really changed," Broesder said. "Regulations are making it rougher." Broesder said his role as an elevator general manager means he will advocate for the livestock industry. People "don't get it as
much anymore as we used to," Broesder said of the public's understanding of the relationship between livestock and grain. "We are still not bad in Iowa, but in other parts of the world it's terrible."
GATOR™ XUV 825i
3.9% for 60 months
1
on Gator Utility Vehicles
Information courtesy of the Iowa Corn Growers Association
GLOBAL CORN PRODUCTION Argentina Brazil Canada China Egypt India Indonesia Mexico Nigeria Philippines Romania Serbia South Africa Thailand Turkey Ukraine EU-25 Others United States
2003-04 2004-05 15,000 19,500 42,000 35,500 9,600 8,836 115,830 128,000 5,740 5,780 14,720 13,600 6,350 6,500 21,800 22,000 5,500 6,500 4,845 5,100 7,020 12,000 3,800 6,274 9,700 12,000 4,100 4,000 2,800 3,000 6,850 8,800 39,861 53,350 51,917 55,606 256,278 299,917
TOTAL
623,711 706,263
Information courtesy of Soyatech
SHOW WINTER WHO’S BOSS.
Change the way you think about carpet... SmartStrand® with DuPont™ Sorona® renewably sourced polymer contains ingredients made from corn sugar-a renewable resource! EASY CARE: Remarkable resistance to spots & soil. DURABLE: Exceptional wear with long-lasting resiliency. SOFT: Tender touches of supreme comfort.
GATOR XUV 825i
GATOR XUV 625i
• 50 hp*, 44 mph • 812-cc, 3-cylinder DOHC engine • 16.4-cu.-ft. cargo box • 1,400-lb. payload Optional Equipment: • Certified deluxe cab w/heater • 72-in. POWERtach™ blade
• 23 hp*, 30 mph • 617-cc, V-Twin engine • 16.4-cu.-ft. cargo box • 1,400-lb. payload Optional Equipment: • Certified deluxe cab w/heater • 72-in. POWERtach blade
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ERNIE WILLIAMS, LTD. JOHN-DEERE® 2613 HWY. 18 EAST ALGONA, IA 515-295-3561 800-295-3561
2120 330TH ST. TITONKA, IA 515-928-2251 800-458-4428
715 1ST AVE. NE BUFFALO CENTER, IA 641-562-2228 877-209-0240
2603 MURRAY ROAD ESTHERVILLE, IA 712-362-7747 800-248-3369
Carpet - Ceramic - Wood - Laminate - Vinyl
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641-762-3688 Mon.-Fri. 9-5 Sat. 9-12 Anytime by Appointment MS-22067
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1 Offer valid from 10/30/2010 until 2/28/2011. Subject to approved credit on John Deere Credit Revolving Plan, a service of FPC Financial, f.s.b. 3.9% APR is for 60 months only. Excludes ProGator and Gator TX-Turf. Other special rates and terms may be available, including installment financing. Available at participating dealers. Prices and models may vary by dealer. *Engine horsepower is provided by engine manufacturer for comparison purposes. Actual operating horsepower may be less. John Deere’s green and yellow color scheme, the leaping deer symbol and JOHN DEERE are trademarks of Deere & Company.
MS-22571
Summit • News-Tribune
Iowa corn fueled this year’s Daytona 500 The Daytona 500 is not only the first race of the NASCAR season, and arguably the biggest race of the year, but it also sets the stage for the season. This year, it also sets the stage for the “greening” of NASCAR with Sunoco Green E15 ethanol. As the cars hit the track in Daytona, NASCAR fans may have noticed a new green ethanol flag starting the race and 120,000 fans with their own flags to wave and mark the occasion, not to mention the corn ethanol that will be literally fueling the cars. “American Ethanol
entered into this new partnership with the focused goal of bringing a positive ethanol message to consumers who don’t know about corn ethanol and its benefits or have heard inaccurate information.” said Craig Floss, CEO for Iowa Corn. “At NASCAR’s kickoff event, corn growers from Iowa joined nearly 40 corn growers from 15 states in attendance at Daytona who were looking for promotional opportunities, ways to relate to race fans and how to take this information back to their home states for upcoming races.”
Iowa Corn participated in a Daytona 500 watch party with the Iowa Speedway on Feb. 20. Iowa Corn Growers Association members got in for a price to watch the action. Iowa Corn was promoting American Ethanol with special giveaways. Corn Growers from across the nation have invested their hard earned dollars in ethanol research, market development and co-product development; however, the new relationship
with NASCAR, Growth Energy and the American Ethanol will put corn ethanol on a national stage in a way consumers have never seen it before. Floss said, “Through the 2011 NASCAR season, over 75 million US consumers will learn more about what ethanol has to offer by watching a race either in person, on TV or both, and it all started with Daytona this past weekend.”
Are you READY . . .
Order tickets now for ICGA Corn Indy 250 It’s that time of year again. The exclusive Iowa Corn Growers Association membership ticket offer starts today, and what a great way to say thank you or show a loved one how much they mean to you. This year the discount is greater than ever with tickets priced at only $45 for the best seats in the house and great hospitality in the Iowa Corn Member tent. The Iowa Speedway has made ordering tickets even easier this year by creating an online ticket purchasing portal on the Iowa Speedway website. The website link and offer
code are below. Don’t miss out on the 2011 Iowa Corn Indy 250 on Saturday, June 25, under the lights at 8 p.m. For more information, or to purchase tickets, go to the website www.iowaspeedway.com /iowacorn2011.
■ Your bacon and eggbreakfast, glass of milk at lunch or hamburger for supper were all produced with U.S. corn. ■ Corn is a major component in many food items like cereals, peanut butter, snack foods and soft drinks. ■ U.S. researchers have led the way in finding many uses for corn like in vitamins and
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SALUTE TO CORN
News-Tribune • Summit
Iowa farmers applaud baby step for E15 fuel use Iowa corn farmers, Bert and Kay Vandenberg, wrote a letter to President Jimmy Carter encouraging the use of corn ethanol to extend our ethanol supplies and decrease our dependence on foreign oil. That letter was dated July 1978. Today, farmers in Iowa are applauding the next small step for ethanol usage and working on the next step to increase ethanol use across the U.S. In response to a request by Growth Energy under section 211(f)(4) of the Clean Air Act, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has partially granted a waiver to allow fuel and fuel additive manufacturers to introduce into commerce gasoline that contains greater than 10 volume percent (vol%) ethanol and up to 15 vol% ethanol (E15) for use in model year (MY) 2001 and newer light-duty motor vehicles, subject to several conditions. On Oct. 13, 2010, EPA granted a partial waiver for E15 for use in MY2007 and newer light-duty vehicles (i.e., cars, lightduty trucks and mediumduty passenger vehicles). On Jan. 21, EPA granted a partial waiver for E15 for use in MY2001-2006 light-duty motor vehicles. These decisions
were based on test results provided by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and other information regarding the potential effect of E15 on vehicle emissions. Taken together, the two actions allow, but do not require, E15 to be introduced into commerce for use in MY2001 and newer light-duty motor vehicles if conditions for mitigating misfueling and ensuring fuel quality are met. EPA is in the process of completing work on regulations that would provide a more practical means of meeting the conditions.
■ An ear of corn averages 800 kernels in 16 rows. ■ A pound of corn consists of approximately 1,300 kernels. ■ 100 bushels of corn produces approximately 7,280,000 kernels. ■ Each year, a single U.S. farmer provides food and fiber for 129 people - 97 in the U.S.
■ Over 55 percent of Iowa's corn goes to foreign markets. The rest is used in other parts of the United States.
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■ In the U.S., corn production measures more than two times that of any other crop.
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MS-22177
SALUTE TO CORN
8 • February 23, 2010
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515-885-2314 • 888-545-2314 TRACTORS ‘04 Versitile 2210, 18.4x46@90%, 3674hr .................. $76,500 ‘93 Versitile 946, 20.8x42, 3 pt, 4272 hr ...................... $53,900 ‘05 Buhler 2160, 2 whl, TA46 load, 2000 hr ................. $79,250 ‘03 NH TG285, 18.4x46@65%, 5213 hr........................ $87,900 ‘98 NH 9682, 710x38, Eng & Trans OH, 5050 hr ........... $72,900 ‘67 IH 706, Gas, cab, 8113 hr .......................................... $6,500 ‘05 NH TC45DA, SS, 17LA loader, nice .......................... $22,500 ‘91 NH 876, 20.8x38, 3152 hr ....................................... $45,750 ‘05 CIH JX65, 2 whl, ROPS 750 hr ............................... $17,700 ‘63 Oliver 1600, Gas, cab, loader ................................... $4,900
PLANTERS ‘07 White 8524, 24R30 Central Till, TW ......................$104,900 ‘02 Kinze 3600, 16R30 TW, 520 G-LF ........................... $53,900 ‘00 JD 1770, 16R30, 3 BW, 250 Monitor....................... $47,500 ‘04 JD 1760, 12R30, TW, LF, Priusion P ......................... $42,500 ‘95 White 6100, 12R30, TW, 2-150G-LF........................ $15,900 White 5700, 11R30 Interplant unite ......................... $5,400 White 5100, 12R30, VF, SM 3000 ............................. $4,500
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Call 888-273-5553 to place an ad today.
SALUTE TO CORN
4 • February 23, 2011
Summit • News-Tribune
“We do get plenty of people asking if a vehicle is E85 compatible,” Peterson said. When people do buy such a vehicle, “we fill it up with E85,” Peterson said.
PHOTOS BY RAE YOST
Several area car dealerships, including Forest City Ford and Chrysler of Forest City are offering vehicles using E85 fuel, including the Ford F-150, above, and the Chrysler Town & Country, at right. Many other makes and models are available at area dealers. Gas stations carrying E85 can be found in Forest City.
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MS-22035
Although it’s not overwhelming, car dealerships are getting asked about vehicles that can use E85 fuel. “We are getting asked more,” said Scott Loges of Chrysler of Forest City. Steve Woodbury, service manager of Pritchard’s in Britt said he gets asked about usng E85 in older vehicles or converting those vehicles to run with E85. Vehicle owners also ask similar questions at Forest City Ford, Ben Peterson said. People in the region are aware E85 is an ethanol product and that production is critical to this agricultural area, car dealers said. Brian Wolfe of Lichtsinn Motors in Forest City moved from Wisconsin to Iowa. “There is much more loyal folks who support E85(here),” Wolfe said. “It’s not so much they won’t buy a vehicle if it’s not E85 but I notice that it’s one of the first questions people ask if a vehicle can use E85.” Some buyers do make their decision based on E85, Loges said. “We have farmers that will only buy the flex fuel vehicles,” Loges said. Peterson, too, said there are customer who
will buy only E85 vehicles. People who own E85 vehicles do have places to buy fuel in Iowa. The Iowa Corn Growers Association website said Iowa has 150 sites to buy the fuel. Sites in the region include the Cenex station in Forest City, Kum & Gos in Clear Lake and others. Minnesota has 364 sites, the Iowa Corn Growers website said. Drivers who use E85 are paying less at the pump but will get fewer miles to the gallon. Wolfe said drivers are willing to get that trade off, especially to support the agricultural economy. The representatives of the dealerships said interest in E85 will continue and vehicles that can use E85 will continue to be made.
February 23, 2011 • 9
Record number of grain bin accidents in 2010
Interest in fuel-efficient E85 vehicles is growing in the area By Rae Yost Salute to Corn
SALUTE TO CORN
News-Tribune • Summit
Corn MS-22038
DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Clumps of moldy corn crashed down around Lael Steinhoff, burying him above his waist for more than three hours before rescue workers could free him from a grain bin on his western Iowa farm. Steinhoff, 61, was one of the lucky survivors last year when a record number of grain bin accidents were recorded as U.S. farmers continued to increase production and deal with storage of a wet crop from 2009. A Purdue University report showed 51 grain bin accidents last year, up from 38 in 2009 and the most since tracking began in 1978. Twenty-five people died, and five of them were children under age 16. The previous record for grain bin accidents was 42 in 1993. The accidents prompted the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to send letters this week to 10,000 grain bin operators across the U.S. telling them they are responsible for preventing the deaths of their workers in grain bins. "Too many people have been killed. Too many children have been killed," said David Michaels, assistant secretary of labor for OSHA. "It doesn't make a difference the size of the operation, the risk is serious. The letters follow a batch OSHA sent last summer to 3,000 grain storage operators after three people died in two accidents at storage facilities in Illinois. One of the
accidents involved two teenagers who were sent into a grain bin at a Haasbach LLC terminal in Mount Carroll, Ill., to break up grain that had clumped together. The bin, which held up to 500,000 bushels, was about half full, and rescue workers had to cut holes in its sides and drain thousands of bushels of grain to reach their bodies. Bill Field, a Purdue University professor who has studied grain bin accidents for 30 years, said such accidents had already been becoming more common when there was a spike after the 2009 harvest.
"What we had throughout the Corn Belt was high levels of moisture and some was put into storage and began to spoil," Field said. "That caused a problem with mold and grain caking together and not being able to flow out of the bin." Storage facility workers and farmers have been climbing into bins to break up the grain and get it flowing again. Steinhoff, who lives near Hornick, said he got trapped while trying to free up corn that had clumped and was blocking the flow from the auger, a piece of machinery that moves grain out of the bin. Rescue crews
built a plywood box around him and used a shop vacuum to remove corn close to him and lift him to safety. He was flown by helicopter to a Sioux City hospital but was released after just two hours. Although he'd been stuck before, he said it was the first time he had to be rescued. Field said the huge increase in grain production in recent years and construction of more bins also has been a factor in the increase in accidents. "We've been producing
an incredible amount of grain and have more storage capacity than ever," he said. "We are growing more to make ethanol, and we're hanging on to corn longer trying to obtain the highest price we can and that increases the risk of spoilage." The bulk of the grain bin accidents have been in major corn and soybean growing states. Illinois led the country with 10 accidents last year, followed by Minnesota with eight. Wisconsin had seven, and five were reported in Iowa.
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Grain bin accidents have continue to rise as other types of agricultural accidents have decreased. Field said that's because technology in that sector hasn't kept up with improvements in other areas, such as tractor safety. Improvements are needed in design, safe access to grain bins and the ability to rescue people who become trapped, he said. He believes that will happen with a new
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10 • February 23, 2011
Summit • News-Tribune
Corn production nationwide smashes the previous record
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U.S. corn production records shattered as we see that seed technology, and efficiency continue to improve the way corn growers do their job. The USDA recently announced that U.S. farmers pulled off the largest corn and soybean crops on record, according to the Crop Production 2009 Summary released today by National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). Corn production is a staggering 13.2 billion bushels, nearly 10 percent higher than the 2008 crop year. Most impressive is even with nationwide weather challenges from hail, to rain, to snow, corn yields reached an all-time high in 2009 at 165.2 bushels
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The Poet Biorefinery near Hanlontown is one of Iowa’s many ethanol plants. The facility uses about 19 million bushels of corn each year and produces about 56 million gallons of ethanol per year.
ETHANOL FACTS
■ Right now ethanol is made from corn, but new technologies are in development that will allow it to be made from other plant material as well, such as corn stalks, wood chips, switch grass, and a variety of other sources. ■ Iowa has been the leader in the development of efficient ethanol production. The state currently has 29 ethanol refineries with the capacity to produce nearly 2 billion gallons annually. In addition, 18 ethanol refineries are under construction or expansion that will add nearly 1.4 billion gallons of annual capacity.
■ This new industry has created hundreds of jobs across the state and added billions of dollars to the state’s economy. ■ The new plants produce approximately 2.8 gallons of ethanol and 17 pounds of feed co-products, called distillers grains, from just one bushel of corn. ■ Most of the gasoline in Iowa includes 10 percent ethanol and E85, which is 85 percent ethanol and just 15 percent gasoline, is becoming more widely available.
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per acre, well above the 160.3 bushels per acre set in 2004. “With those production numbers, nationwide corn production would be equal to threefourths of a trillion pounds,” said Tim Burrack, a farmer from northeast Iowa and chairman of the Iowa Corn Promotion Board. “With the U.S population at 304 million, that’s enough corn for every person in the U.S. to consume 2,431 pounds of corn; plenty for all food, feed, fuel, and fiber needs. This once again demonstrates that the food versus fuel argument is complete false.” In Iowa, where corn is a champion in the fields, corn production numbers are up from 12.8 in
2008 to 13.4 in 2009. But, not all the corn is on the barge, in the bin, or on the rail cars. In parts of Iowa, corn remains standing in the snow waiting for a combine. “The staggering numbers released today are a true reflection of the value of new traits and hybrids available to farmers.” said Burrack, who experienced one of the latest harvest seasons in his 37 years of farming. “Never underestimate the capacity of the corn grower to produce under even the most challenging weather conditions.”
■ Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska and Minnesota account for over 50 percent of the corn grown in the U.S. Other major corn growing states are Indiana, Ohio, Wisconsin, South Dakota, Michigan, Missouri, Kansas and Kentucky.
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■ The area known as the "Pacific Rim" region (in Asia) is emerging as the world's fastest growing market for U.S. corn. There, most of the corn is fed to livestock to produce food for humans. The majority of the world's population is located in the Pacific Rim region.
■ The "Corn Belt" includes the states of Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska, Minnesota, Indiana, Ohio, Wisconsin, South Dakota, Michigan, Missouri, Kansas and Kentucky.
■ Exports are critical to the well being of American agriculture. Nearly one third of our nation's corn crop is targeted for exports.
■ Corn is produced on every continent with the exception of Antarctica.
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■ Ethanol is a high-octane fuel made from renewable sources that reduces air pollution, replaces imported oil and improves automobile performance.
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SALUTE TO CORN
2 • February 23, 2011
Summit • News-Tribune
This year’s planting season should be right on track Farmers predict a good start to the 2011 corn growing season following one of the wettest years on record By Megan VerHelst Salute to Corn Last year’s corn-growing season may have been full of extremes, but it shouldn’t have any effect on farmers when they climb into their tractors for the first time this year. A warm, wet summer preceded by an unusually dry fall made for a quick, successful harvest for area farmers last year. Although many factors make it difficult to predict the outlook for area crops, many are confident this year’s growing season will begin as smoothly as the last one ended. “Each year is different,” said Randy Broesder, manager of the Farmers Cooperative elevator in Forest City. “But with the weather we’ve had recently, we should have adequate subsoil moisture going into this year, which is a plus. “After that, though, it’s anyone’s guess.” Last summer marked one of the wettest area farmers have seen in awhile, said Kevin Propes,
agronomist with North Central Cooperative in Woden and Hutchins.This caused above average nitrogen loss in some corn crops, a natural process that takes place to ensure the crop makes it through the season. Moisture amounts varied throughout a small area, Propes said. “It brought some challenges to growers,” Propes said. “It reduced some yields in areas south of Highway 18, but in our neck of the woods, we didn’t experience as much of that. “We probably didn’t get the moisture they experienced in areas south of here.” Broesder called this area the “garden spot.” “Last year actually was very good,” he said. “Crops were good quality, and yields in this area were good.” As fall approached, area weather became increasingly dry. Farmers went straight to corn once they finished harvesting beans to avoid the crop losing more moisture, Propes
said. “I don’t think there were any breaks taken as far as harvest goes last year – and I don’t think I’ve ever seen that before,” he said. As farmers brought their corn to area cooperatives, little of it required additional drying. “I’m not sure there was any that actually had to go through a corn dryer,” Propes said. The loss of moisture did have an effect on some yields, Propes said, but it Farmers in North Iowa typically begin planting corn in mid-April and harvest it in early was still an “excellent October, although weather plays a key role in the actual date. harvest,” even allowing farmers extra time to complete a variety of typically comes to a close the beginning of October. other tasks on their land. Broesder said last year’s Corn planting usually “Big & Small, begins in mid-April, growing season should We Have Them All” have little impact on this Propes said, provided year’s season. ground conditions are C Propes agreed, adding good and the forecast shows warm, favorable each season usually is weather. In the latter part dependent on area weathof May, farmers will apply er. “As far as this spring, herbicides to their corn my prediction is we’re crops. looking at a normal one as Some farmers choose to of right now, ” Propes said. apply fungicides around “I don’t foresee anything July 4, usually the same that would cause it to be time the corn is tasseled. The corn growing season different.”
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which measures global supply and demand for grains, oilseeds and other crops, said its projections for wheat and soybean stocks remained unchanged at historical low levels for reserves. Corn prices have already doubled in the last six months, rising from $3.50 a bushel to more than $7 a bushel. Consumers won't see the broader impact right away. It takes months for higher grain costs to work their way through the food system and show up at the grocery store. The cost of corn and soybeans represents just 10 percent of the total cost of food, and big processors such as General Mills Inc. are hesitant to pass along those costs quickly to consumers. Still, companies such as Hormel Foods Corp.
have already announced price hikes for 2011 to cover the increases. Hormel said prices will rise by about 3 percent on a variety of products, from Spam to canned soups. Rising grain costs hit meat producers first. Tyson Foods, the nation's biggest meat company, says it is aiming to cut $200 million in operational costs to offset higher corn and soybean costs. CEO Donnie Smith calls that the "new normal" price range. Tyson said chicken, beef and pork prices are expect to rise, if only slightly, this year as producers seek to cover costs. Shares of meat producers like Tyson, Smithfield Foods and Pilgrim's Pride opened lower Wednesday, falling less than 1 percent in early trading.
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ST. LOUIS (AP) — U.S. reserves of corn have hit their lowest level in more than 15 years, reflecting tighter supplies that will lead to higher food prices in 2011. Increasing demand for corn from the ethanol industry is a major reason for the decline. The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported Feb. 9 that the ethanol industry's projected orders this year rose 8.4 percent, to 13.01 billion bushels, after recordhigh production in December and January. That means the United States will have about 675 million bushels of corn left over at the end of year. That's roughly 5 percent of all corn that will be consumed, the lowest surplus level since 1996. The USDA report,
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Farm meeting is March 8 glyphosate tolerant weeds and herbicide selection by Robert Hartzler, Extension weed management specialist; and grain price outlook and changes in crop insurance products for 2011 by Kelvin Leibold, Extension farm management specialist. The annual meeting of the Northern Iowa Research Association will be conducted from 11:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Membership in the Association is not required to attend this meeting. Certified crop advisor CEU credit has been requested. A $15 fee will be charged for CCA credit. This meeting is free and open to the public. Contact your local ISU Extension Office for additional information.
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AMES, Iowa (AP) — Iowa State University has won a $20 million grant to conduct and oversee research on how climate affects corn crops. Iowa State says it will coordinate the work of 42 scientists from 10 universities and two U.S. Department of Agriculture research institutions in nine north-central states. The five-year project will collect and analyze data from fields that produce nearly 65 percent of the nation's corn. The researchers will combine field and climate data to formulate models and evaluate crop management practices.
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generation of farmers taking over. "The social contract that farming has with the general public is changing and what was once tolerated and acceptable in agriculture is not acceptable to the general public who say 'We want to move away from those high death rates,'" he said. "As a new generation comes up there will be a different expectation." Meanwhile, OSHA has been taking a tougher stance on violations of current safety standards. Haasbach LLC was fined $555,000 for two dozen safety violations after the accident that killed the teenagers in Illinois, and Michaels said it will con-
sider pursuing criminal charges against grain handlers involved in accidents. "None of these would have occurred if simple procedures would have been followed," he said. "You don't blame the grain." The letter OSHA is sending grain storage operators outlines seven steps that should be taken to reduce the risk of injury or death, including turning off augers and other power equipment before entering bins; prohibiting walking on grain; providing a body harness with a lifeline for anyone going into a grain bin; and making sure there's someone outside the bin who can
help if something goes wrong. Small farmers who store their own grain also need to take the proper precautions before entering bins, Michaels said. "I'd say think twice, then think again before you considering endangering yourself or your family," he said. But Steinhoff said he doesn't think the push for increased safety will make much difference. "I don't know any farmer that would tie himself off, they go in just like I did," he said. "They know the chances, but you know it's never going to happen to you. I'm not saying it's right, but it's human nature."
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CORN 2011
The annual meeting and educational program of the Northern Iowa Research Farm will be held March 8 at the Heartland Museum in Clarion. Coffee and refreshments will be served at 8:30 a.m., with the program beginning at 9 a.m. There is a sponsored lunch at 12 p.m. and the program will conclude at 1:45. The Heartland Museum is located at 119 Ninth St. S.W., Clarion. Please call 641-923-2856 or 515-5323453 to pre-register for this meeting by March 3. Topics and speakers include corn development and management by Lori Abendroth, Extension agronomist; background and management of soybean sudden death syndrome by Alison Robertson, Extension plant pathologist;
CORN 2011
12 • February 23, 2011
February 23, 2011 A supplement to