SUMMER 2020
LIVESTOCK IOWA
INSIDER
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GAB’S GREETINGS
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LIVESTOCK 101
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NEWS RELEASE
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THE INTERN UPDATE
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HANSEN FAMILY OF AUDUBON COUNTY RECEIVE THE WERGIN GOOD FARM NEIGHBOR AWARD
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CSIF IN-DEPTH: GREEN FARMSTEAD PARTNER PROGRAM
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ALBRIGHT FAMILY OF CALHOUN COUNTY RECEIVE THE WERGIN GOOD FARM NEIGHBOR AWARD
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IOWA PORK PRODUCERS
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IOWA BEEF INDUSTRY COUNCIL
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IOWA CORN GROWERS ASSOCIATION
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IOWA FARM BUREAU
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IOWA SOYBEAN ASSOCIATION
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IOWA CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION
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MIDWEST DAIRY
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IOWA TURKEY FEDERATION
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IOWA POULTRY ASSOCIATION
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IOWA LIVESTOCK INSIDER SUMMER 2020
GAB’S GREETINGS By the time this hits your (E)mailboxes, summer will nearly be over! Don’t fret! We’ve still got some summer fun in store for you! During a normal year, we would have already given away a beautiful YETI cooler at the Iowa state FFA convention in April. HOWEVER, since Miss ‘Rona altered those plans, we’re adding the YETI cooler to our annual photo contest prize package! We’ll be giving away this YETI Roadie 24 cooler, other YETI brand products, CSIF swag + other goodies to our top three. Look for more info on the contest in the coming days. Thank you for your continued support + if there is ever anything we can do for you, don’t hesitate to reach out! Enjoy the rest of summer with some ice cream or an ice cold glass of milk!
Gabby Glenister IOWA LIVESTOCK INSIDER SUMMER 2020
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LIVESTOCK 101
Brian Waddingham // Executive Director
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SOUND SITING DECISIONS A CORNERSTONE OF SUCCESSFUL LIVESTOCK FARMS
here are numerous decisions that have to be made before putting up a new livestock facility. While assessing regulatory compliance and finding a good site are only pieces of that decision-making process, they are extremely important to the long-term success of your farm.
Iowa has rules that apply to all livestock operations, no matter the size. It is important to know those requirements up-front. And it is crucial to have an outside set of eyes look at your site to help ensure there aren’t any other considerations you may have overlooked. It is imperative to take neighboring residences, businesses, towns and public use areas into consideration. Just because you own the ground, doesn’t necessarily make it a good place to build.
The Coalition stands ready to help farm families with siting new livestock facilities + assessing their farms compliance with rules + regulations – all at no charge + completely confidential.
For more insight into siting considerations, check out this article or call the Coalition directly at 800.932.2436.
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IOWA LIVESTOCK INSIDER SUMMER 2020
NEWS RELEASE
MEET THE INTERN
CARLSON JOINS COALITION TEAM AS COMMUNICATIONS INTERN WEST DES MOINES, Iowa – May 22, 2020 - The Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers (CSIF) welcomes Kelsi Carlson as their 2020 communications intern. While working with CSIF, Carlson will create content for social networks and the website, assist in writing releases and blogs, and identify new strategies that can help the Coalition reach a larger audience. Throughout her internship, she will work with livestock farmers across Iowa to provide support and increase awareness of their efforts to care for their animals while being good stewards of the land. Carlson will be a senior at Iowa State University this fall majoring in Agricultural Communications. She is involved with organizations on campus including Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow, Block and Bridle, Beef Interest Group, Iowa Corn Collegiate Club, Professional Agricultural Students, and the 2020 Livestock Judging Team. Finding a passion for both animal agriculture and people is what led her to choosing her degree and what activities to get involved with. “Farming is a lifestyle and farmers dedicate their lives to responsibly caring for their animals and ultimately providing us with a variety of safe, healthy food choices. I am excited to work with CSIF in assisting farmers in making changes to their operation and helping to build trust and understanding with consumers,” Carlson says.
About The Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers was created in 2004 by farmers to help farmers raise livestock successfully and responsibly. CSIF is a partnership involving the Iowa Beef Industry Council, Iowa Cattlemen’s Association, Iowa Corn Growers Association, Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, Iowa Pork Producers Association, Iowa Poultry Association, Iowa Soybean Association, Iowa Turkey Federation and Midwest Dairy. The non-profit, non-partisan organization provides assistance to farmers at no cost. CSIF does no lobby or develop policy. Farm families wanting a helping hand can contact the Coalition at 800-932-2436 or visit supportfarmers.com.
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STAFF Brian Waddingham Executive Director Kent Mowrer Senior Field Coordinator Gabby Glenister Assistant Field Specialist Kelsi Carlson Communications Intern
PARTNERS Iowa Beef Industry Council Iowa Cattlemen’s Association
HELLO
Iowa Corn Grower’s Association Iowa Farm Bureau Federation Iowa Pork Producers Association Iowa Poultry Association Iowa Soybean Association Iowa Turkey Federation Midwest Dairy
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IOWA LIVESTOCK INSIDER SUMMER 2020
5400 University Ave. West Des Moines, Iowa 50266 800.932.2436 supportfarmers.com
THE
INTERN UPDATE
by Kelsi Carlson // Communications Intern When I accepted this internship with the Coalition, I never imagined things would end up like this. I was supposed to be in the office every day and attending events that I got to help coordinate and plan. But instead of that, myself as well as many others had plans altered by the pandemic. Since beginning my internship in the middle of May, I have still managed to stay busy even though it wasn’t what was planned for me. While working from home, I have worked on projects for social media including a meet the intern post and stories along with continuing our Iowa Ag Intel social campaign. I have been updating some templates with our new logo and making sure that they follow our new standards. We have been fortunate enough to hold two Good Farm Neighbor Award events with limited people and social distancing implemented. Even then, I loved every minute of being able to get out from behind the computer screen and meet and reward some of the people that make this industry great. Though I haven’t been able to get the full internship experience I had hoped for, I am still learning a lot and have great coworkers that help me with anything necessary along the way. The future might be up in the air, but I am lucky to have found the Coalition to work with this summer to continue expanding my horizons within the booming agriculture industry.
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Hansen
FAMILY
OF AUDUBON COUNTY RECEIVE THE WERGIN GOOD FARM NEIGHBOR AWARD
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SECRETARY NAIG AWARDS FAMILY FOR OUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP IN AGRICULTURE DES MOINES, Iowa (June 3, 2020) – Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig presented the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award to the Hansen Family yesterday. Charlie and Greg Hansen are cattle and hog producers in Western Iowa. “COVID-19 has highlighted the importance of taking care of our neighbors and our communities,” said Secretary Naig. “I’m excited to honor the Hansen family for their ongoing dedication to livestock care and environmental stewardship, especially at a time when COVID-19 is impacting the food supply chain and farm economy.” Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the award presentation ceremony was limited to 10 people. Secretary Naig and the Hansen family practiced social distancing while receiving the award live on WHO Radio’s The Big Show. “With numerous events canceled during the pandemic, we thought it was important to continue to highlight outstanding leaders in agriculture and continue the tradition of the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award,” said Brian Waddingham, Executive Director of the Coalition to Support Iowa Farmers. “We worked together to change the award ceremony in order to practice social distancing while thanking the family for their leadership in agriculture.” The Hansen family runs a diversified cattle and swine farm in Audubon County. They practice no-till farming and have a crop rotation of corn and soybeans as well as some acres of alfalfa. Over the last couple of years, the Hansen family has been experimenting with a cereal rye cover crop for a secondary feed source. They get their fields sampled every four years and use variable rate technology to supply their crops with the proper amount of nutrients.
THEIR CATTLE AND HOG MANURE ARE UTILIZED AS ANOTHER FERTILIZER SOURCE FOR THEIR CROPS AND IS APPLIED IN ACCORDANCE TO THEIR NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT PLAN. THE HANSENS HAVE ALSO INSTALLED TERRACES AND WATERWAYS TO HELP MANAGE RUNOFF FROM RAINWATER. Charlie is on the Soil Conservation Board for Audubon County. Greg is on the Audubon T-Bone Committee and participates in the Audubon FFA Alumni Association. They are both involved in Pheasants Forever, Audubon Cattlemen and the Audubon Pork Producers Associations. The Wergin Good Farm Neighbor award is made possible thanks to financial support of the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers. This award recognizes Iowa livestock farmers who take pride in caring for the environment, their livestock and being good neighbors. It is named in memory of Gary Wergin, a long-time WHO Radio farm broadcaster who helped create the award. ### About the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship Led by Secretary Mike Naig, the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship serves the rural and urban residents that call Iowa home. Through its 12 diverse bureaus, the Department ensures animal health, food safety and consumer protection. It also promotes conservation efforts to preserve our land for the next generation. Learn more at iowaagriculture.gov. Media Contact: Keely Coppess Communications Director (515) 326-1616 Keely.Coppess@IowaAgriculture.gov IOWA LIVESTOCK INSIDER SUMMER 2020
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CSIF IN-DEPTH:
GREEN FARMSTEAD PARTNER
PROGRAM 9
IOWA LIVESTOCK INSIDER SUMMER 2020
The Green Farmstead Partner program was created in 2009 to bridge the gap between farm families who want to plant trees + the nursery professionals who have expertise in tree plantings on farms + in rural areas. It’s offered by the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers with the help of Trees Forever + the Iowa Nursery + Landscape Association. The program provides information on tree + shrub plantings for livestock farms + offers the expertise of 28 nursery professionals around the state. There are many reasons to plant trees – from snow control to wind protection to improving relationships with neighbors. Although there will be an up-front cost, have you considered the ways a properly designed tree planting could pay for itself? If you don’t have to scoop snow out of feed bunks, off pit fans or a roof, trees pay for themselves quickly! Additionally, trees can provide visual screening, reduce odor + improve relationships with neighbors. The cost of establishing trees is much cheaper than defending yourself in a nuisance lawsuit. The type of trees you should plant depends on what you want to accomplish with a planting. The first step is to determine what you want the trees to do. If you want visual screening, you may want to consider a hybrid willow (or austree). They are a very cost-effective + fast-growing tree + provide more immediate results. If you want to improve aesthetics +/or neighbor relations, consider additional ornamental trees + flowering shrubs in highly visible areas. For snow control + wind protection, think about evergreens. With a properly designed plan, the hybrid willow also can provide very effective snow + wind protection. If you have room, a multi-row, multi-species planting is an option. We typically recommend to plant trees on the north and west sides of a livestock or poultry barn + to keep the trees 70-100 feet back from the barn. That distance allows for adequate airflow + provides room for snow drop (if there is going to be any – it all depends on the density of your tree planting). On farms with minimal room to work with, we have seen trees planted closer. Tunnel-ventilated sites are usually less sensitive to the distance recommendations than naturally-ventilated facilities. Most summer breezes come from the south or southeast in Iowa. As a general rule of thumb, dense tree plantings on the south + east sides should be avoided for naturally-ventilated barns. However, a few strategically placed ornamental trees + flowering bushes for aesthetic purposes may work well on these sides. The cost of planting trees are highly variable, depending on how extensive the plan is, the size of trees you plant, + if you plant yourself or hire someone. Smaller, bare root plants will typically have a lower initial cost than larger, potted plants, but usually will then require more maintenance + will take longer to mature. Any of the nurseries participating in the GFP program can give you a cost estimate specific to your farm. The Coalition recommends the best place to begin your windbreak plan is to personally assess your farm, determine your goals + develop a timeline of when you want to start + complete the project. The Coalition is here to help you through the process, answer questions + would be happy to come to your farm, at no charge, for a personal consultation. You can reach the Coalition at 800.932.2436 or bwaddingham@supportfarmers.com. Once we have established your goals for your tree planting, we will refer you to one of the 28 nurseries participating in the GFP program + they can give you a cost estimate specific to your farm. For a complete list of nurseries + their contact information, please visit our website. Once your planting is complete, you will qualify for a personalized Green Farmstead Partner program sign to display on your farm.
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GOOD FARM
NEIGHBOR
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IOWA LIVESTOCK INSIDER SUMMER 2020
A
AWARD
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Secretary Naig awards family for outstanding leadership in agriculture DES MOINES, Iowa (June 26, 2020) – Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig presented the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award to the Albright family in Lytton, Iowa, today. The farm is run by Ben and his wife, Susan, Ben’s younger brother, Nick, and father, Alan. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the award presentation ceremony was limited to the family. Secretary Naig and the Albright family practiced social distancing while receiving the award live on WHO Radio’s The Big Show. “The members of the Albright family are great conservation leaders. They realize there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to improving soil health and water quality and have invested in a variety of practices to determine what works best for their land,” said Secretary Naig. “These investments not only help to improve the soil and land now, they help preserve it for future generations. It’s my honor to present them with the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award.” The family has a diversified crop operation, where they have implemented numerous water quality practices. The Albrights use buffer strips, grassed waterways, no-till, settling basins, manure management, nitrogen stabilizers, conservation tillage, and Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) windbreaks. In addition, they have increased the amount of cover crops from 20 acres to 320 acres since 2012. For several years, Ben was involved in a research study about the economics behind grazing cover crops. Within the community, he served as president of the Calhoun County Farm Bureau and is now a voting delegate. Albright is also an Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF) Ag Leaders Institute graduate, former IFBF Young Farmer Advisory Committee vice-chair, Practical Farmers of Iowa member and Soil Health Conference presenter, Garfield Township clerk, and a Calhoun County Cattlemen board member. The Wergin Good Farm Neighbor award is made possible thanks to financial support from the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers. This award recognizes Iowa livestock farmers who take pride in caring for the environment and their livestock, and being good neighbors. It is named in memory of Gary Wergin, a long-time WHO Radio farm broadcaster who helped create the award.
Albright
About the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship Led by Secretary Mike Naig, the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship serves the rural and urban residents that call Iowa home. Through its 12 diverse bureaus, the Department ensures animal health, food safety and consumer protection.
FAMILY
OF CALHOUN COUNTY RECEIVE THE WERGIN GOOD FARM NEIGHBOR AWARD Media Contact: Keely Coppess Communications Director (515) 326.1616 Keely.Coppess@IowaAgriculture.gov IOWA LIVESTOCK INSIDER SUMMER 2020
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WE ARE IOWA PORK PROUD These are challenging times for Iowa’s pig farmers, and that can make it difficult pride they have in their work to produce a wholesome and safe protein that people table.
to talk about the choose to put on their
Iowa Pork Proud is an online campaign to rally support for our state’s pig farmers and boost morale as they work through COVID-19 issues that disrupted the food supply chain. Despite the hardships, Iowa pig farmers – who raise one-third of the pigs in the United States – have worked tirelessly to provide safe, nutritious pork for Americans. Iowa’s pig farmers are resilient. The Iowa Pork Proud campaign requires no financial support—instead, it’s an opportunity to showcase that resilience and futurefocused mindset as we navigate this unprecedented time.
WHY YOU’RE IOWA PORK PROUD
Record your own short videos and post on social media channels to highlight why pork is important to you personally, or to share a word of encouragement for Iowa’s pig farmers. Be sure to use the hashtag #IowaPorkProud and tag @IowaPork. Also, adjust your settings to allow the video to be shared publicly. (Facebook mobile app Beneath your name at the top of the “Create Post” box, a drop-down menu allows you to “Select Privacy” —click “Public.” Desktop: In the lower portion of the Create Post box, where “News Feed” is likely selected, look to the right of “News Feed” and click the drop-down menu. Select “Public.”) Look over: Tips for Recording Your Iowa Pork Proud Video Here are some thought-starters: • I’m Iowa Pork Proud because I’m a third-generation pig farmer. • I’m Iowa Pork Proud because I grew up in Iowa and understand the importance of the pork industry to the health of Iowa’s economy. • I’m Iowa Pork Proud because I love bacon!
CONTENT SOURCE >>> IOWA PORK PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION
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“UNITED WE STEAK” ENCOURAGES IOWANS TO GRAB THEIR FAVORITE BEEF CUT AND FIRE UP THE GRILL
Contact: Kylie Peterson, Director of Marketing and Communications, Iowa Beef Industry Council, 515.296.2305 The Iowa Beef Industry Council is partnering with Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner., funded by the Beef Checkoff, to launch “United We Steak,” a new summer grilling campaign showcasing 50 steaks and all 50 states. “United We Steak” celebrates not only a shared tradition of grilling delicious steaks, but also what makes each state unique when it comes to this beloved pastime. The idea comes to life at UnitedWeSteak.com with an interactive map of the United States made from 50 hand-cut state-shaped steaks. The interactive map is packed full of grilling spirit, state-specific recipes and fun facts that can help consumers nationwide “beef up” grilling season this summer. Underpinning the campaign is a recognition that across all 50 states, there is a universal love of beef sizzling on a summer grill. According to research conducted by Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner., which is managed by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, nearly one-third of consumers say that they plan to grill more this summer than they have in the past.1 WHILE EVERY STATE HAS SPECIAL TRADITIONS AND RECIPES WHEN IT COMES TO GRILLING BEEF, SOME OF THOSE UNIQUE TO IOWA, AND FEATURED ON UNITEDWESTEAK.COM INCLUDE: BEEF STEAKS WITH SWEET-SOY DRIZZLE: BEEF AND BROCCOLI COME TOGETHER IN A DISTINCTIVELY ASIAN WAY. CUMIN-RUBBED STEAK TACOS: A SIMPLE SWEET AND SPICY RUB GIVES TOP SIRLOIN STEAK DELICIOUS FLAVOR WHILE HOMEMADE GRILLED CORN SALSA ADDS A SMOKY FINISH. TOP WITH AVOCADO CREAM FOR A SMOOTH FINISH. RIBEYE STEAKS WITH BLUE CHEESE BUTTER AND MUSHROOMS: RIBEYES AND PORTOBELLO MUSHROOMS ARE GRILLED AND SERVED WITH A COMPOUND BUTTER. BONUS RECIPE FOR SANDWICHES USING LEFTOVERS INCLUDED.
Image: Iowa Beef Industry Council
BALSAMIC MARINATED BEEF TOP SIRLOIN: ASPARAGUS AND STEAK ARE A GREAT COMBINATION FOR A QUICK YET IMPRESSIVE MEAL. SERVED WITH A TANGY BALSAMIC VINEGAR AND DIJON-STYLE MUSTARD SAUCE.
“There’s nothing like the sound and smell of beef sizzling on the grill during the summer grilling season,” said Kylie Peterson, Iowa Beef’s Director of Marketing and Communications. “United We Steak’ not only celebrates a love for grilling that brings families together, but also the beef farmers and ranchers who work hard every day to keep beef on grills all summer long.” As part of the campaign, the state and U.S.-shaped steaks will be featured in national advertisements, including still images and videos that will be shared on digital and social media platforms. The advertisements will also be shared on video platforms including YouTube and Connected TV in an effort to inspire Americans to grill up their favorite beef meal no matter where they live. Iowa is getting in on the fun too with localized advertisements that will reach proud Iowans at the grill. The campaign follows the kickoff of summer grilling season, which Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. marked with a new video released Memorial Day Weekend showcasing the dedication of farmers and ranchers to raising safe, sustainable and nutritious beef. It concludes with the simple declaration: “Summer Grilling Season Brought To You By Beef Farmers and Ranchers.” More beef grilling inspiration and information can be found at United We Steak and BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com.
### About the Iowa Beef Industry Council: The Iowa Beef Industry Council has funded the $1-per-head National Beef Checkoff Program and the $0.50-per-head Iowa State Beef Checkoff. Checkoff dollars are invested in beef promotion, consumer information, research, industry information and foreign market development, all with the purpose of strengthening beef demand. For more information, visit iabeef.org. About the Beef Checkoff: The Beef Checkoff Program was established as part of the 1985 Farm Bill. The checkoff assesses $1 per head on the sale of live domestic and imported cattle, in addition to a comparable assessment on imported beef and beef products. States may retain up to 50 cents on the dollar and forward the other 50 cents per head to the Cattlemen’s Beef Promotion and Research Board, which administers the national checkoff program, subject to USDA approval. 1 Grilling Survey, April 2020
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Since 1934, The Iowa Farm Bureau Spokesman has been Iowa’s leading agriculture news source, and today it is the largest circulation ag newspaper in Iowa. While the Spokesman newspaper is available exclusively to Iowa Farm Bureau members, The Spokesman Speaks podcast is available publicly, reaching farmers on-the-go with stories that matter to them. You can find episodes of the podcast here or subscribe and listen in your favorite podcast app, such as Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Stitcher, TuneInRadio, or Radio.com. New episodes are released every other Monday.
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The Iowa Soybean Association accepted a U.S. Water Prize award from the U.S. Water Alliance for most outstanding nonprofit organization. (Photo Credit: Joseph L. Murphy/Iowa Soybean Association)
IOWA SOYBEAN ASSOCIATION
RECIPIENT OF 2020 U.S. WATER PRIZE
BY KATIE JAMES // PUBLIC RELATIONS MANAGER, IOWA SOYBEAN ASSOCIATION The Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) has been named a winner of the U.S. Water Alliance 2020 U.S. Water Prize. ISA was awarded Outstanding Nonprofit during the virtual ceremony Tuesday. “We are keenly aware of farmers’ important role in water management,” said Roger Wolf, ISA director of innovation and integrated solutions as he accepted the award on behalf of ISA. “Our programs at the Iowa Soybean Association are designed to strengthen soybean farmers’ ability to adapt to challenges, build stronger soils and achieve cleaner water.” The U.S. Water Alliance selected ISA for the innovative solutions that benefit farmers, watersheds and communities. “Solutions such as watershed analyses and planning
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bring Iowa’s agricultural community and water stakeholders together,” said the U.S. Water Alliance in its selection for the award. The ISA Research Center for Farming Innovation promotes management practices that allow for both productive yields and long-term environmental sustainability. The research and results are the first step in collaborating to cleaner water, but it’s the willingness from farmers to continuously innovate that spurs positive change.
“A SPECIAL THANK YOU GOES OUT TO OUR FARMERS LEADERS WHO PROVIDE OVERSIGHT AND GUIDANCE IN THESE EFFORTS,” SAID WOLF. “AND, OF COURSE, OUR FARMER CHAMPIONS AND PARTICIPANTS IN THESE WATER QUALITY INITIATIVES. WE ARE UNABLE TO DO THIS WORK WITHOUT YOUR PARTICIPATION AND ENGAGEMENT.” As Iowa’s soybean farmers prepare to celebrate August as Soybean Month in Iowa, ISA also celebrates August as National Water Quality month. As the U.S. Water Prize award displays, soybeans and water quality certainly go hand-in-hand. The award was one of six granted nationally in six different categories. The U.S. Water Alliance annually recognizes people and organizations leading innovative approaches to water management and a more sustainable water future.
Partially funded by the soybean checkoff
For media inquiries, permission to republish articles or to request high-res photos, please contact Katie James, ISA Public Relations Manager at kjames@ iasoybeans.com. © 2020 Iowa Soybean Association. All rights reserved.
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IOWA CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION CONTACT: KATIE OLTHOFF, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS, IOWA CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION - 515-296-2266 For the first time in its 38 year history, the annual Governor’s Charity Steer Show (GCSS) will not be held at the Iowa State Fair. Due to the cancellation of this year’s fair, Iowa State University will host the event. “We are very honored to host the 38th Annual Governor’s Charity Steer Show at the Jeff and Deb Hansen Agriculture Student Learning Center here at Iowa State University,” said Dr. Dan Thomson, chair of the Department of Animal Science at Iowa State University. “This event is a great opportunity to showcase how the people of the Iowa cattle industry care about our neighbors in need of help by fundraising for a very worthy cause. We are so excited to help continue this tradition to support the Ronald McDonald Houses of Iowa.” Dr. Thomson will serve as this year’s Showmanship Judge. The event, which raises money for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Iowa, will be held on August 15, 2020. Organized by the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association and Iowa Beef Industry Council, the GCSS has raised over $3.8 million to help provide a home away from home for families of children who are being treated in nearby hospitals. Ronald McDonald Houses are located in Des Moines, Iowa City, and Sioux City. “The Iowa City Ronald McDonald House has had widespread support from University of Iowa celebrities over the years,” says Dr. Thomson. “In good fun and competitive spirit of the CyHawk rivalry, we’re looking forward to showing our friends to the East how it is done at Iowa State to benefit Iowa families in need.” Twenty-five steers from across the state will compete for the championship designation, showmanship honors, and the People’s Choice award. The steers have been raised by Iowa youth involved in the cattle industry, and celebrities will accompany the young steer owners in the ring. Immediately following the competition, the steers will be sold at auction with proceeds going to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Iowa. Last year’s auction raised more than $284,000. The event will be invite-only, and participants will be encouraged to follow the university’s social distancing guidelines. The show and auction will be streamed live online, and fans can donate to the cause and vote for the People’s Choice award at www.iowagovernorscharitysteershow.com. Editor’s note: Please feel free to use the photos here along with this press release. -30About the Iowa Beef Industry Council: Producer-directed and consumer-focused, the Iowa Beef Industry Council is funded by the $1.50-per-head beef checkoff. Checkoff dollars are invested in beef promotion, consumer information, research, industry information and foreign market development, all with the purpose of strengthening beef demand. For more information visit www.iabeef.org. About the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association: The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association represents nearly 10,000 beef-producing families and associated companies dedicated to the future of Iowa’s beef industry. ICA’s mission is “Grow Iowa’s beef business through advocacy, leadership and education.” www.iacattlemen.org About the Iowa State University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences: Iowa State University is home to the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, one of the world’s premier institutions for agricultural education, research and extension and outreach. Its diverse portfolio represents people and programs working for the good of Iowa and the world, and the betterment of agriculture. Iowa State’s agricultural researchers and extension staff work across the state to help Iowans more efficiently and sustainably produce food, energy and everyday materials; protect plant, animal and human health; and care for the environment. For more information, visit cals.iastate.edu.
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2020 GOVERNOR’S CHARITY STEER SHOW COMES TO IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY
(Photo: Iowa Cattlemen’s Association)
(Photo: Iowa Cattlemen’s Association)
Iowa Governor, Kim Reynolds, leads her steer to the show ring for the 2019 Governor’s Charity Steer Show. (Photo: Iowa Cattlemen’s Association)
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The event virtually united members of the dairy supply chain to gain valuable insights and prepare for the postCOVID-19 future St. Paul, Minn. – Midwest Dairy hosted the third annual Dairy Experience Forum on July 15, convening more than 400 members from the entire dairy supply chain to discuss trends, opportunities, innovation and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The theme, “A Disruptive Forum on Today’s Consumer and Dairy’s Opportunity,” built upon the past two years of learning and closely examined how current events have created unique circumstances influencing consumer behavior in 2020 and beyond. “Although the Dairy Experience Forum took a different form this year by going virtual, we’re thrilled to bring the dairy community together once again to facilitate important discussions and collaborate to strengthen our collective position,” said Molly Pelzer, CEO, Midwest Dairy. “This year’s challenges have also provided opportunities for dairy, and we’re fortunate this conference allows us to explore how we can maximize them together.” The forum kicked-off with a live consumer focus group before moving into a line-up of industry speakers and panels and concluded with a keynote address from a motivational speaker.
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The live consumer panel identified consumer perceptions surrounding health benefits, animal care and sustainability. While consumer panelists shared specific concerns, they also shared enthusiasm for dairy and habits which showcased opportunities for the dairy industry. Among these were increased yogurt consumption, exploring new cheeses and cooking with dairy foods like buttermilk and sour cream.
A COMMON THREAD THROUGHOUT EACH PRESENTATION WAS ANALYZING HOW COVID-19 HAS AFFECTED CONSUMER SHOPPING BEHAVIORS, ESPECIALLY AS IT RELATES TO DAIRY: •
As of June 21, retail dairy sales in the U.S. are up 17%in 2020, outperforming other edible category increases during this time.
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During COVID-19 restrictions, those buying more dairy (+25%) were increasing their consumption the most at breakfast and snack times.
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Based on the results of a survey commissioned by Midwest Dairy, consumers indicated they plan to increase their yogurt usage in the post-pandemic world, more so than cheese, milk or butter.
DAIRY EXPERIENCE FORUM DELIVERS CONSUMER INSIGHTS TO HELP DRIVE DAIRY DEMAND •
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Online dairy shoppers are not motivated by the same elements as in-store dairy shoppers, and 70% of those who began purchasing dairy online during COVID-19 say they will continue. Dairy drivers are the same as before (taste, nutrition/ health, comfort, familiarity) but have increased in importance in the eyes of consumers.
“Now, it will be up to the dairy community to tap into this expanded market share and retain consumers’ enthusiasm for the category,” said Allen Merrill, chairman, Midwest Dairy. “We can do this by focusing future innovation on products that meet consumers needs for taste, affordability, nutrition, convenience and accessibility.” Attendees also heard from a panel consisting of a dairy farmer, a cooperative processor and a consumer branded product manufacturer about what they are doing to reach the industry’s 2050 Environmental Stewardship Goals. Each of the panelists agreed that sustainability starts on-farm, while also nodding to the outstanding efforts and practices that farmers do each day to decrease their carbon footprint, improve water quality and reduce and optimize water usage. Discussion focused around how the entire dairy supply chain needs
to remain committed to sharing dairy’s sustainability story to continue to build trust in dairy. While there is still work to be done and challenges to overcome, the dairy industry is ready to address them. Motivational speaker, Harris III, left some impressionable words with the group: “Worry is a waste of imagination.” Taking the insights gained from the forum, members of the dairy supply chain can use their imaginations to move dairy forward, innovate, be creative and enter the postCOVID era stronger than ever before.
CONTACT CALLI SMITH, MANAGER CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS CSMITH@MIDWESTDAIRY.COM 651.703.1712
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SPICY TURKEY TENDERLOIN FAJITAS Mix together: ½ teaspoon chili powder ½ teaspoon ground cumin ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper Rub mixture into 2 turkey tenderloins. Cook turkey on a preheated grill to 165 degrees F. Place on a plate and cover with foil for 5-10 minutes. Cut into strips, place on soft tortillas and roll up. Serve with: sour cream guacamole Pico de Gallo fresh cilantro lime wedges
BLACK BEAN SALSA This salsa is superb with the Fajitas! In medium non-stick skillet, over medium-high heat, sauté: 1/3 cup onion chopped 1 jalapeno pepper seeded and minced Stir in and cook 5 to 10 minutes, or until mixture is heated throughout: 1 can (15 ounces) black beans rinsed, drained 1 can (8-3/4 ounces) corn drained 1/3 cup chopped tomato 1/2 teaspoon chili powder ½ teaspoon cumin ½ teaspoon salt 2 Tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped Serve with tortilla chips.
CONTACT IOWA TURKEY FEDERATION 515.232.7492
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CONTACT IOWA POULTRY ASSOCIATION 515.727.4701
2020 FALL FESTIVAL AND ANNUAL MEETING UPDATE The Iowa Poultry Association Board of Directors, along with the Fall Festival and Annual Meeting Committee, are transitioning this year’s Fall Festival and Annual Meeting to a virtual conference! While this is a key source of revenue and the premier event for the Iowa Poultry Association, the consensus was the health of our members, staff, and the poultry community is the priority. Iowa Poultry Association is moving forward with the Bob Springer Poultry Scramble and Chicken and Pigeon’s Clay Shoot tournaments in person, on September 16th. Social distancing, masks during check-in, and use of hand sanitizer will be in practice (golfers will have their own carts--registration limited to first 100 golfers). Pre-registration for these events is required. Registration proceeds from golf and clay shoot events will go to the Iowa Poultry & Egg Scholarship Fund. Our awards celebration and educational program will be held online, and dates and times will be announced soon. Registration information for all events will be released in late July. Sponsors will continue to receive recognition throughout the program and in related communications, and our Early Birds will be acknowledged all year in our member directory and resource guide, and on our website. This decision was not an easy one. The health and safety of all of our members is, and will continue to be, a top priority. We hope to see many of you both for the golf and clay shoot tournaments, but also for our virtual events. Thank you,
Iowa Poultry Association
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