Issue 50

BECAUSE YOUR TRACTOR DESERVES THE BEST.

Is your tractor ready for the season ahead?

Trust only high-quality John Deere parts from your John Deere dealer, as well as the best support and advice from our qualified technicians.

Romans

What

A Letter from the Editor

You know the saying, “life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re going to get.” The more I experience life, the more I relate to the simple yet, truthful statement. No matter how long we tirelessly sit, ponder, and try to map out the way we want our life to go it rarely ever does.

I used to be one of those long time planners to map out my goals, my “plan of life or action,” but in the latter part of my thirties I’ve come to the revelation that no matter how hard I plan- I’m wasting my time mapping out things when I could just enjoy life and roll with it.

Like the mysterious box of chocolates when I never know if something good or something nasty will happen like those horrid surprise Chocolates you get that make you want to spit it out.

I’ve learned that instead of wasting my time planning I should be investing my time into the people that enter my life, my experiences; the good and bad, and quality time enjoying the beauty in this world.

Some days are harder than others, but I try to focus on the now and not the future. What I also focus on is knowing God allows people good and bad to be part of my life, allows good and bad things to happen, and his plan is always in my best interest. Sometimes it’s hard to see that, hard to trust that, but the fact remains God will always take care of his children.

I encourage you to stop planning so much and try to focus on the present. Your future maybe only tomorrow, maybe 50 years... our time is limited and every day is a gift. So enjoy the gift, smile, give to others, and live in the present.

Cover photo by: Social Media Photo Contest

Year 9, Issue 50

Winner Christopher Davis

Cotton Prices Reflecting Economic Uncertainty

BY JOHN MILLER

The cotton market has been held back recently by the seemingly global challenge of rising inflation that makes almost every product or service we use more expensive. The most recent release of Consumer Price Index lauded a ‘decrease’ in inflation despite the 6.4 percent estimate against the prior months 6.5 percent. When all goods and services are considered, and not just a narrow selection chosen by the Fed, inflation would be reported at even higher levels. While cotton finds its way into thousands of products, the large items made from fabric such as clothing are just not moving like it was even a few months ago before interest rates began to rise as part of the Fed’s effort to reverse inflation.

Despite seeing a recent uptick in Asian demand, you can see from the “US Cotton Total Use” chart below that overall demand

has declined for a second year. In addition, the recent earthquakes in Turkey that have been so devasting for the people there has heavily damaged spinning mills and curtailed shipments. Add the recent currency problems negatively affecting Pakistan, also an important customer, in a serious way and it is not hard to understand that the negatives are outnumbering the positives. And if we consider that any positive news about the US economy will have the Fed raising interest rates even higher, which will hurt the consumption of all goods. As the cotton price chart below shows, the December 2023 contract which Valley famers will depend on has struggled to exceed 85 cents per pound, a number that most farmers would have to work very hard to trim costs to make the crop profitable at normal yields.

The ‘ICE Cotton Prices the Last 5 Years’ chart below illustrates that cotton prices have fallen to the average of the past 5 years. Farmers will tell you that their input costs (prices paid for products and services needed to grow their crops) have not fallen in kind. It is true that some costs, even big ticket items such as fertilizer, chemicals and fuel, have fallen some. But inflation coupled with the higher cost of borrowing will make this a key

year to experience improved yields and price rally’s. The ‘ICE Cotton Price Seasonal’ chart provides some measure of optimism since cotton prices have tended to increase in the late spring and early summer. This is a fairly common occurrence given the uncertainty about the planting season for US Cotton, and the health of the crop as it heads into summer.

As we approach planting season, there is always speculation over how many acres might be planted across the US cotton belt. A much-followed National Cotton Council survey-based acreage estimate was recently released suggesting that the upcoming season could see 11.4 million acres planted which would be a 17 percent decrease from the past season. The ‘Cotton Planted vs Harvested Acres’ chart below shows the large disparity between planted and harvested acres last season. So much of that difference was explained by the adverse weather across Texas. A closer look at that chart

shows how both planted and harvested acres in the US have been in decline since about 2017. This ongoing uncertainty about the ultimate health of the US crop will likely keep this market volatile for the better part of the year. As the final chart shows, US cotton production has decreased substantially since 2017, keeping the US excess in the 3.5 to 4.5 million bale range. Even the favorable fall weather over the Mississippi Delta that boosted the overall US average yield could not compensate for the losses here in Texas.

This season will be a long game with respect to markets. It seems that the cotton market has found a home trading in the 80 to 85 cent range for some time. Most farmers will say that they need to see futures prices at least in the low 90’s to have a chance at scoring a profit this year, so any move in that direction will be highly welcomed. The bottom line for cotton is that the US and world market remains held back by reduced demand related to the so many economic and political issues facing governments and consumers across the globe.

Fortunately, there have been some indications of slight improvement, and we have to hope that continues. Over the next few weeks, you will likely see Valley farmers planting cotton now that the corn and grain crops are well on the way to getting in the ground. Be reminded that farming cotton is a critical component of the Valley economy that employs a wide array of local products and services. Let’s hope that favorable weather and stronger prices help farmers here find even better success than last season.

AgriLife Research Looks at Gene Expressions in Sugarcane

Aphid Resistant Sorghum

Gene expression in sugarcane aphid-resistant sorghum varieties at times when they are most prevalent in the Texas Panhandle were the focus of a recent Texas A&M AgriLife Research study.

ugarcane aphids remain the most significant threat to sorghum production, and their outbreaks can arise quickly and un expectedly, especially in the Southern High Plains where infestations commonly coincide with sorghum bloom, said Dr. Ada Szczepaniec, AgriLife Research entomologist in Amarillo.

Sugarcane aphid outbreaks in sorghum were first reported in 2013. Previous research has illustrated that the outcomes of interactions between sugarcane aphid and sorghum — and thus the severity of the outbreaks — depend on the sorghum hybrid and potentially the phenology of the sorghum, Szczepaniec said.

To dig further into the mechanisms that drive the severity of aphid attacks and the role planting timing has in management protocols, she designed a study to understand the physiological changes in a commercially available resistant variety and a susceptible variety of sorghum. The varieties were studied at two weeks and six weeks post-emergence and were exposed to sugarcane aphid infections.

“In prior years, we demonstrated that using resistant sorghum varieties is the most effective way to manage these pests,” Szczepaniec said. “We also documented that when sugarcane aphids colonize flowering sorghum or just prior to bloom, their numbers increase extremely fast. This can pose a challenge to timely insecticide applications.” The effects of sorghum age and genotype on the daily change in aphid densities were also evaluated in separate greenhouse experiments in her study.

“We found that the seedling sorghum expressed significantly more genes involved in natural plant resistance to pests than sorghum at the cusp of panicle emergence. This was true across varieties,” Szczepaniec said.

“More importantly, we found a suite of transcriptional changes in the resistant variety that were weak or absent in the susceptible sorghum. Specifically, the aphid-resistant variety exposed to sugarcane aphids bolstered several genes involved in natural plant resistance to pests, and this response was particularly robust in the two-week plants.” She said her new research links the sugarcane aphid population dynamics noted in the field studies with gene expression data, which provide strong support for previous management recommendations.

“We found specific pathways in the plants that explain how resistant sorghum can mount powerful natural defenses against the aphids, and we discovered mechanisms responsible for greater susceptibility of sorghum in

reproductive stages,” Szczepaniec said.

“These findings further support our recommendations for planting early, using resistant sorghum varieties, and intensifying scouting and sampling, particularly when sorghum is flowering.” Szczepaniec said outcomes of this research were also of interest to other scientists as research on sugarcane aphid association with sorghum is still fairly new. Prior to this publication, she said, not much had been known about the molecular mechanisms that drive their interactions and result in sugarcane aphid outbreaks.

The gene expression changes in the younger resistant sorghum included induction of powerful plant hormones that govern how sorghum responds to pests, and more effective deployment of genes that help sorghum alleviate the harmful effects of oxidative stress following sugarcane aphid herbivory.

“The suite of physiological changes we quantified in sorghum was mirrored in the aphid population growth, which was significantly faster in the susceptible and older sorghum than in the resistant and younger plants,” Szczepaniec said.

“We believe this research is providing the first insights into molecular mechanisms underlying lower population growth of sugarcane aphids on the resistant sorghum variety,” she said. “It also appears that the younger resistant sorghum was able to mount a robust defense response following aphid infection, which was much weaker in the older sorghum.” She said there are several pathways and specific genes that provide specific clues into the mechanisms underlying host-plant resistance to this invasive insect, and that will be a part of her continued study.

“We believe this knowledge will inform future sorghum breeding programs and contribute to the development of more varieties that can combat sugarcane aphid infestations,” Szczepaniec said. “It also helps us understand the mechanisms responsible for sugarcane aphid outbreaks and provides further support for specific integrated management tactics producers can take to help reduce the economic costs of these pests.” This research was published in BMC Genomics and presented at several national and international conferences.

Funding came in part from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture, USDA-Agricultural Research Service, Areawide Pest Management of the Invasive Sugarcane Aphid in Grain Sorghum and Texas A&M AgriLife Genomics and Bioinformatics Center.

CAN YOU NOW REPAIR YOUR OWN JOHN DEERE EQUIPMENT?

The “right to repair” issue has been a topic of debate both in and outside of agriculture. A memorandum of understanding signed by Deere & Co and the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) means farmers will be able to repair their own equipment. The MOU was announced during AFBF’s annual meeting in Puerto Rico on Sunday. According to both Deere and AFBF, the MOU formalizes the availability and access to parts, tool, software and documentation to perform repair and maintenance.

his will enable you and your independent mechanics to identify and fix problems, Farm Bureau president Zippy Duvall said during his AFBF address. “You will have access to the diagnostic tools and information you need. And you’ll get it at a fair and reasonable price.”

“The says the agreement with the American Farm Bureau Federation formalizes the longstanding commitment Deere has made to ensure our customers have the diagnostic tools and information they need to repair their machines,” Deere stated. “We look forward to working alongside the American Farm Bureau and our customers in the months and years ahead to ensure farmers continue to have the tools and resources they need to diagnose, maintain and repair their equipment.”

With the MOU, farmers can either repair equipment on their own or go to an independent technician. It also helps dodge legislation around the issue. Several states had introduced their own “right to repair” legislation, but as stated in the MOU released this week, the agreement will happen “through a voluntary private sector commitment to outcomes rather than legislative or regulatory measures.”

The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) represents agriculture equipment manufacturers. The association says it welcomes the MOU between Deere and AFBF and supports their goal of having issues like “right to repair” resolved without legislation. “The Association of Equipment Manufacturers and its member companies have always supported a farmer’s right to safely maintain, diagnose, and repair equipment,” says Curt Blades, senior vice president of AEM. “We remain committed to helping farmers reduce downtime and maximize productivity through solutions that keep them safe and protect our environment. The success of the agriculture industry is also the success of the equipment manufacturing industry, and we welcome every opportunity to work together to secure the future of American agriculture. The agreement between Deere & Co. and the American Farm Bureau Federation is a positive step in resolving a long-standing issue and reinforces our belief that successful resolution does not require onerous legislative action.”

The Complicated Issue of “Right to Repair”

The issue of “right to repair” is one the entire industry has faced, but John Deere is the equipment manufacturer who is typically the target of both news coverage and policies introduced. As one equipment industry source stated, John Deere is the company with the most to lose.

“Right to repair” is a complicated issue with no easy solution. The latest models of equipment come with sophisticated and high-tech combinations of hardware and software. While the technology allows farmers to be even more precise, one of the downsides is it can be more prone to breakdowns or issues than older models without technology. This can cause more downtime during critical times of the year, such as planting and harvest.

At the same time, protecting the software and intellectual property is of high importance, especially with the rise in cyberattacks in agriculture. If an agricultural company hasn’t built the proper cloud-based or offline systems, then it puts farmers- and the entire agriculture industry- at risk. The MOU is aimed to protect the software, while also aiding farmers’ efforts to repair their own equipment as quickly - and efficiently - as possible.

MOU Protects Safety or Protocols

The MOU states equipment owners and independent technicians cannot compromise any safety measures and protocols on the equipment, which includes Deere’s intellectual property, including its software, are protected from infringement; and no federal and state emissions control requirements can be compromised because of modifications made to the machinery.

The MOU also states this access will not be allowed for the purpose of overriding safety features or emissions criteria. “This MOU shall not be interpreted or construed to require a Manufacturer to: a) divulge trade secrets, proprietary or confidential information; b) allow owners or Independent Repair Facilities to override safety features or emissions controls or to adjust Agricultural Equipment power levels; or, c) violate any federal, state, or local laws or regulations,” states the MOU.

Will More Equipment Manufacturers Sign On?

While the initial MOU is just with John Deere, Duvall invited other equipment manufacturers to also sign on. He also said Farm Bureau officials will meet at least semi-annually with John Deere to discuss the “right to repair.”

“This is a positive step in the right direction. NAEDA will be working to learn more about how the MOU will affect dealers and state legislation going forward and will continue to keep dealers informed,” says Kim Rominger, CEO of the North American Equipment Dealers Association (NAEDA).

Q&A Ag Mag

Summary of the South Texas Grassland Restoration Incentive Program or STX GRIP

Tell us some bullet points about the South Texas Grassland Restoration Incentive Program

• The South Texas Grassland Restoration Incentive Program (STX GRIP) is a multi-organization effort aimed at achieving grassland bird objectives in focus areas throughout the south Texas plains. Currently our focus area includes all or part of the following 14 counties: LaSalle, McMullen, Live Oak, Jim Wells, Duval, Brooks, Hidalgo, Kleberg, Kenedy, Willacy, Webb, Zapata, Jim Hogg, and Starr.

• The goal of this Program is to partner with private landowners to improve degraded native grasslands and grass-dominated shrublands to help provide improved habitat for Northern Bobwhite, Scaled Quail, grassland birds and pollinators.

• Since 2017, STX GRIP has provided funding in the form of direct payment to landowners as an incentive for conducting approved grassland bird habitat improvement practices on their property.

• Payments are made to landowners for approved practices after completion of work is certified by coordinating partner organization staff.

Who can participate?

Any landowner within the designated counties who meets the following criteria:

• Wishes to treat at least 25 acres for Northern Bobwhite or 160 acres for Scaled Quail projects. (Smaller treatment areas/ combinations may be considered.) These acreage minimums are based strictly on the reproductive biology of those species

• Can provide at least a 1:1 in-kind match (in-kind means use of their own staff, use of their own equipment, cash, etc).

• Will allow periodic geospatial, vegetative and bird data to be collected at project sites (with advance notice and coordination, entrance onto property subject to landowner approval) This is done to evaluate the effectiveness of the applied land management practices as well as the response of bird populations to the improved habitat.

• Who is committed to maintaining the improved state of the habitat in the treatment area for at least 5 years after project completion.

What does the program try to focus on?

The program focuses on native grassland restoration to improve and promote sustainable grazing and livestock raising operations, as well as to benefit Bobwhite, other grassland birds, and Scaled Quail.

What are some things that make this program so unique?

• Landowners work in coordination with a project manager (their choice of local Pheasants Forever & Quail Forever, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, or Natural Resources Conservation Service biologists) who provides technical guidance to prepare and submit a STX GRIP Project Proposal, making the process relatively painless.

• The application process is relatively straight forward and not as cumbersome and complicated as that of some federal and state agencies.

Why is restoring grassland so important?

• Thousands of bird species across the Americas are in decline, including more than half of all U.S. bird species. Grassland birds have suffered the biggest declines of any terrestrial biome since 1970.

• Birds are critical components of natural ecosystems, and by managing for a diversity of birds, we will also protect many other species and the habitats on which they rely.

• Both Bobwhite and Scaled Quail are popular game birds that have experienced serious declines since the 1970s, in the range of 70% of their populations (PIF 2016 Landbird Plan) Habitat restoration is one of the best ways to slow their rate of decline.

Are there any restrictions?

Practices such as switching pristine native brush to grass configurations, heavy brush conversion, non-native plant reseeding (grass or other), and research are not eligible.

When did this program start?

2017

Where can people go to find more information on this program?

Visit the RGJV website Projects and Tools for Landowners page and/or download the 2023 STX GRIP factsheet. https://rgjv.org/for-landowners/

Are there any restrictions on land?

No restrictions. We just ask for a couple of things:

• That the landowner allow periodic geospatial, vegetative and bird data to be collected at project sites (with advance notice and coordination, entrance onto property subject to landowner approval). This is done to evaluate the effectiveness of the applied land management practices as well as the response of bird populations to the improved habitat.

• That the landowners commit to maintaining the improved state of the habitat in the treatment area for at least 5 years after project completion.

Does a landowner have to have a certain amount of acres to participate?

Yes, minimum 25 acres to be treated for Bobwhite and minimum 160 acres to be treated for Scaled Quail. These acreage minimums are based strictly on the reproductive biology of those species.

What happens to the native brush?

This depends on the project. Where appropriate, native brush

is maintained, supported and improved for Scaled Quail projects. Bobwhite projects focus more on grassland restoration, which could include prescribed fire and removal of some invasive brush. Each project design takes into account the unique combination of specific site conditions and the prescribed land management prescription is carefully crafted bsed on the site needs, the landowner objectives and the accompanying biologist technical guidance.

Minus the wildlife benefits what other benefits can the landowner expect?

In conservation circles, it’s often said that “What’s good for the bird is good for the herd.” STX GRIP projects will result in improved grassland, with removal or control of invasive plants, which will result in increased forage for cattle. An improved, sustainable grazing operation will provide long-term economic benefits to the participating landowners.

What inspired this program?

The severe decline of grassland bird populations, generational changes in landownership, increased land and habitat fragmentation, and a proliferation of non-native, invasive species were some of the drivers that inspired the creation of an innovative grassland restoration program. This program was created by the Oaks and Prairies Joint Venture in central Texas. From there it has grown into other areas in the rest of the state and beyond.

Established in 2005, the RGJV is one of 25 highly successful Migratory Bird Joint Ventures working across North America to conserve our native birds for more than three decades. Partners of the RGJV include private nonprofit conservation groups and state and federal resource management agencies. Partners share resources and focus on common conservation goals using a collaborative, non-regulatory approach. The RGJV focuses on grasslands, wetlands, brushlands and riparian, and habitats in both the Tamaulipan brushlands and the Chihuahuan Desert.

Does it cost the landowner anything…?

The STX GRIP economic incentives are based on NRCS’ payment rates which roughly cover about 50% of the cost of implementing the approved land management practices. Therefore, the out of pocket cost to the landowner is about 50% of the total cost.

Will it affect the cattle if the land owner is running a cattle operation on the land?

Depending of the type of land management practices cattle might have to be moved around to implement the practices, allow pasture recovery, etc, etc.

Where’s the Water?

BY KYLIE SELLMAN

The Rio Grande Valley is abundantly known for its farming culture, but a lack of water could cause a decrease in farmed acres in the coming seasons. The depleting water supply will not suffice the needs of valley farmers much longer before they are forced to go on an irrigation allocation. General Manager of the Delta Lake Irrigation District, Troy Allen, indicated concerns as a lack of rainfall and Mexico’s inconsistent diversion of water pose a threat to farmers across the RGV.

South Texas has been faced with extreme drought for the past 3 to 4 which has put a strain on water resources. Allen said that the average annual rainfall in his district is about 24 inches, but the area has seen extremely irregular weather patterns over the past few years. Local rainfall in June and July has reached anywhere from 8 to 24 inches for 3 of the past 5 pears. While the water is coming during the heavy irrigation season, it still threatens to wash out crops and force farmers to replant or wait until the next growing season. This mass amount of rainwater typically dries up within three weeks and often does not make it into the watersheds. Allen stated that a tropical event is necessary to fill a watershed, so going 3 to 4 years without one is damaging.

The RGV relies heavily on Mexico to divert allocated water to the United States under The Mexican Water Treaty of 1944. With this treaty, Mexico is required to divert 1.75 million acre feet of water to the US every five years for an annual average of 350,000 acre feet of water. The US is required to divert 1.5 million acre feet of water from the Colorado River to Mexico annually without fault. However, Mexico does not consistently divert the allocated water, and will often go into the next five year cycle before fulfilling the previous one. This makes it difficult for irrigation districts and farmers in the RGV to plan out irrigation since they do not have a set number of how much water they will receive. Allen said Mexico needs to acknowledge the US as users so they are obligated to set aside 350,000 acre feet of water annually and the US can rely on it.

The current five year cycle started in October 2020, and Mexico had only diverted 70,000 acre feet of water until September 2022. Mexico’s high demand for water plays a vital role in the lack of diversion since they often have their own farmers protest against diverting water during the severe droughts that they face.

Sugarcane is the most affected industry since they irrigate 5 to 8 times a year, followed by the hay industry which irrigates 4 to 5 times a year. Citrus growers use drip irrigation, but while they only use small amounts of water at a time, they sometimes drip irrigate up to twice a week. Under allocation, farmers are allowed to irrigate each acre one time. They are also able to move their water to different plots of land if they choose to do so. There are no other cost-effective ways available to get the water needed to the RGV, so the US continues to rely on Mexico.

Unfortunately, the end of this issue is nowhere in sight. Allen said that while The Mexican Water Treaty of 1944 is not perfect, it may end up worse if the US and Mexico try to change it. Until Mexico chooses to acknowledge the US as a water user, farmers and irrigation districts in the RGV will have to continue on with the uncertainty of when they will receive their water next.

The US has tried to find ways to penalize Mexico by withholding water from them, but Allen expressed that there would be concerns with other US border states in regards to the water that they receive from Mexico. Allen suggested that losing a percentage of storage in the Falcon and Amistad Dams could be viable penalties for lack of diversion until Mexico recognizes the US as a water user. This would give the US more storage in the dams which will provide peace of mind in knowing that there is plenty of water banked. However, Allen believes that the diversion issue will never change unless we force Mexico to do so.

Irrigation in the RGV has been majorly affected by the lack of water which has caused some farmers to change the crops that they plant, put their land in a no till, or not farm it for the year. There are government subsidies to prevent growers from planting on their land, but it is not the same amount of money a farmer would receive on a good crop.

While all crops are affected by water deprivation, those who grow sugarcane, hay and citrus are often hit the hardest in the event of an irrigation district going on allocation.

2023 Calendar OF EVENTS

March 25, 2023

Shooting Sports Trap, Skeet & WhizBang Shoot

10am Location: TBD

April 1, 2023

Fashion Sensation -

Fashion Show, Duds-toDazzle, Natural Fiber

10am Location: TBD

April 1, 2023

Roundup - Educational Presentations +

11am Location: TBD

April 1-10, 2023

Photography

2pm Location: Virtual

April 13, 2023

RoundupLivestock Judging

2pm Location: TBD

April 22, 2023

Shooting Sports 3-P & Silhouette Rifle Match

10am Location: Benavides

June 13-23, 2023

Leadership Lab

10am Location: TBD

June 16, 2023

Election Convention

Candidacy, Voter

Registration & Election

10am Location: TBD

July 11, 2023

Record Book Judging

10am Location: Virtual

July 28-30, 2023

Council Officers

Retreat

10am Location: TBD

Q&A Ag Mag

Tell me a little bit about yourself and your history. Where did you grow up, family, etc?

Let’s start from the beginning, just to give a bit of background on where the Osmers family in South Africa come from. My great grandfather, Julius William Osmers, was born in Bremen, Germany 27 July 1870. He immigrated to South Africa from Germany when he was 23 years old and arrived by ship in South Africa on 28 December 1893.

He married my great grandmother, Marie Mathilde Birkholz on 23 October 1894 and had 10 children, 5 daughters and 5 sons, of which my grandfather, Willem (Boet) Osmers, was the youngest.

My grandfather, Willem Osmers, was married to my grandmother, Hendrik Balthazar Klopper and had 3 sons, of which my dad, also named Willem (Willie) Osmers, was the eldest.

My dad, Willem Osmers, married my mom, Cecilea Magdalena Wilhelmina Christina Kruger, and had 2 children, my sister and I, of which I am the eldest. I am thus part of the 3rd generation of the Osmers Family in South Africa. My great grandfather and great grandmother settled in Tzaneen in 1924, a smallish town in the then Transvaal (now Limpopo Province of South Africa). My grandfather grew up in the Tzaneen area as well as my dad and I. Currently me and my family are living in Hoedspruit, a smallish town about 1 hours’ drive south-east of the town Tzaneen. My grandfather and two of his brothers, (all tradesman in the welding, boiler making and mechanics professions), were well known hunters in the area, known for their extraordinary marksmanship and hunting skills, and they also loved fishing. They mainly hunted for meat but also hunted a lot of damage causing lion in the area. These lions preyed on livestock on farms and in local and tribal communities in those days. They also hunted elephant in Mozambique when it was still under Portuguese rule. (They however never hunted professionally, as at that time there were not really a hunting safari industry in South Africa. That only came in later years. Hunting was mainly for meat as well as protecting of livestock and people from predators like lion, leopard, etc.)

My dad and his two brothers also hunted a lot in their days, and hunting was part of our upbringing and part of what we are. I thus grew up with a strong hunting and wildlife knowledge, as did my son Zandré and my daughter, Richelle, in the Lowveld, or also called Bushveld region of South Africa. More about me, I, (Siegfried Osmers) was born in Tzaneen, a smallish sized town in then the eastern part of Transvaal, now called the Limpopo Province of South Africa. I was raised on a farm in the Tzaneen/Letsitele area and was always interested in nature and the outdoors.

I went hunting and fishing with my grandfather and my dad on the family farm in the Musina area, thus coming from a strong hunting and conservation background. I learned the necessary hunting skills and firearm safety from them and also tracking game and sign in the African bush from our local trackers when following up on game. During this time, I also developed a deep love for the wildlife of Africa, the outdoors and basically nature as a whole, from a very young age. I matriculated in 1992 from the High School Ben Vorster in Tzaneen and continued to study for a National Diploma in Nature Conservation. During this time, I also completed various other guiding and conservation related courses and also qualified as a national field guide, registered with SATOUR, the South African Tourism Board. In 1994 I met my wife Elize, a Nature Conservation Officer at the time at the Hans Merensky Nature Reserve, working for the Limpopo Department

of Environmental Affairs. We were married in 1997 and we have 2 children, our son Zandré Arno Osmers, that is now working with me and Elize and is part of our safari company, Greater Africa Safaris (Pty) Ltd. and also part of our environmental consulting company, ESZRO Environmental Consulting (Pty) Ltd. both based in South Africa. Our daughter Richelle Osmers finished high school at the end of 2021 and is currently busy studying BSc. Life Science, with Zoology, Botany and Geography as majors at UNISA (University of South Africa). In 1998 I started my safari company, Dalerwa Ventures for Wildlife. At that stage mainly doing photographic safaris in the Limpopo Province of South Africa, and the Kruger National Park. During this time, I also worked on a part time and voluntary basis, assisting the then Limpopo Department of Environmental Affairs, with damage causing animal control and other conservation related tasks. I qualified as a Professional Hunter in 2001 at the SA National Professional Hunting School in South Africa. The same year I received my Professional Hunting License, unlimited for guiding clients hunting dangerous game (elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, rhino, and hippo), as well as my Hunting Outfitters License to operate as a hunting outfitter.

Then, during this time the focus of my safari company changed from doing photographic or sightseeing safaris, to now doing hunting safaris and the sightseeing and photographic safaris mainly as add-ons for clients to the hunting safaris. In 2003 I was appointed as Honorary Nature Conservation Officer with the Limpopo Department of Finance, Economic Affairs, Environment and Tourism, mainly assisting the department with damage causing animal control, elephant, lion, hippo, and buffalo in the communities bordering the Kruger National Park. During this time, I gained extensive knowledge and experience in hunting dangerous game and also in the tracking, follow-up and disposing of elephant, lion, hippo and buffalo. From 2001 till now I actively and on a full-time basis operated as Hunting Outfitter and Professional Hunter, successfully guiding numerous clients hunting plains - as well as dangerous game with rifle and bow. I have also hunted and followed up on numerous plains as well as dangerous game animals myself, not only through guiding clients.

In 2022, Zandré Osmers, that is also an enthusiastic and experienced hunter himself, joined the safari company, that is now known as Greater Africa Safaris (Pty) Ltd., as co-owner on a full-time basis. He is now working alongside me to build on the safari company and to make it possible for clients wanting to hunt Africa, to fulfill their dreams and to also get to experience the still wild places of Africa.

Tell me about your business and the services offered. For many years I operated the hunting safaris under the old safari company, Dalerwa Ventures for Wildlife, that I started in 1998 known as Dalerwa Ventures for Wildlife cc. The planning and main aim at that stage was doing local photographic and sightseeing safaris in South Africa, and then later-on overland safaris into some of the neighboring African countries, mainly concentrating on safaris for overseas tourists. After I qualified as Professional Hunter and got my Hunting Outfitters and Professional Hunters Licenses, the whole focus and aim of the safari company changed. Now concentrating and aiming at becoming a well-established Hunting Safari Outfit, based in South Africa. Over the years the name of the safari company, Dalerwa Ventures for Wildlife, was always a point of concern. It was difficult for clients to pronounce, and also did not reflect or depict the true nature and meaning of the company. Some clients were also asking and wondering why it does not include the word “Safari” or “African Safari” in the name, as do most other Africa Hunting Safari Companies. Then in 2022, when Zandré Osmers joined the company on a full-time basis, after long and careful consideration, and also with two years of the Covid Pandemic in the past, that led to a near collapse of the international tourism industry and basically forced all international travel to a standstill, Zandré and I decided to change the safari company and to start operating under a new name that more truly reflect the real nature and aim of the company. Thus, in the beginning of 2022, Greater Africa Safaris (Pty) Ltd. came to life as the new safari company, with Siegfried Osmers and Zandré Osmers as

as co-owners. Siegfried in the role as Managing Director and as the licensed Hunting Outfitter and lead Professional Hunter of the company, handling all hunting, client, and marketing related aspects, and Zandré taking on the role of Director of Operations, handling all logistics and financial related aspects, but also assisting with clients and hunting on the ground. Greater Africa Safaris is a well-established Africa Safari Outfit, of which the main operation is based in the Northern and Northeastern part of the Limpopo Province of South Africa. We offer a wide portfolio of hunting, fishing and photographic safaris to our clients, from the most basic to some of the most exclusive and specialized safaris to some of the most remote destinations in Africa.

Tell me about the hunting side of the business. Our company conducts exclusive and custom Hunting, Fishing and Photographic Safaris throughout Africa and offer a diverse portfolio of safaris to the international client, from the most basic hunting, fishing and photographic safaris to some of the most exclusive safaris deep into the untouched wilderness areas of Africa.

Hunting Safaris: We offer a diverse portfolio of exclusive, custom, and private hunting safaris throughout various countries on the African continent. All safaris are tailored and adapted to our clients’ specific needs, abilities and hunting interests. Whether it is dangerous game, plains game or a wing shooting safari you are looking for. From the most basic Africa Hunting Safari for the first-time hunter to Africa, looking for a safer and great plains or dangerous game hunting safari experience, to some of the most exclusive Hunting Safaris to some of the most exclusive and remote wildlife areas and hunting destinations Africa has to offer, for the veteran Africa Safari Hunter looking for the more specialized and exclusive dangerous and plains game species.

Fishing Safaris: We offer a wide range of fishing safaris on various rivers and lakes, including exciting offshore and beach fishing safaris to various destinations in Africa. Whatever fresh or saltwater species you are going after, like the well-known Tiger Fish or some of the more exclusive freshwater trophy fish species like the Nile Perch in Uganda, or maybe the locally feared Goliath Tiger Fish in the Republic of the Congo, or maybe one of the many saltwater sport fishing species. Whether you just want a fishing Safari as an add-on to your Hunting Safari or are an experienced and specialized angler looking for an exclusive Fishing Safari for specific trophy fish species in Africa. We build a custom safari specifically adapted to the clients’ needs, abilities and angling interests for each client or group of clients.

Photographic Safaris: We offer a wide diversity of opportunities and a diverse selection of activities and Africa destinations for the photographic and sightseeing enthusiast for private and dedicated photographic or sightseeing safaris to some of the most beautiful, un-spoilt wildlife, wilderness, and cultural destinations in Southern, Eastern Western and Central Africa. These safaris are all custom and private and are all tailored and adapted to suite every client’s specific needs and interests.

Tell me about the agriculture side of things.

During 2009, Elize, (then employed by the provincial government) decided to resign from her post to join the safari company but also to do private environmental consulting work for the farmers and game breeders in the area. This business entails the compilation of management plans for wildlife management areas, captive breeding operations, environmental risk assessments, environmental auditing, vegetation monitoring services to determine the carrying capacity of farms and also environmental impact assessments required for mainly agricultural and tourism developments. The consultation business gradually grew to a point where we decided to establish ESZRO Environmental Consulting (January 2020).

We are mainly operating in the Limpopo and Mphumalanga Provinces of South Africa but have done environmental consulting work in most of the provinces of South Africa.

What are some challenges you face in both businesses?

Firstly, the COVID pandemic was probably our biggest challenge thus far as it had a major impact on the safari business, but also the tourism related work done in the environmental side of the business. Secondly, the pressure of green and animal rights organizations on the hunting industry. Then also the constant attacks from local and foreign governments trying to impose unnecessary regulations like import bans on trophies of legally hunted animals, mostly elephant, lion, leopard and rhino, but also other game. The misconceptions and false information spread by the mainstream media, social media platforms and animal rights and green organizations in connection with hunting and in particular trophy hunting in Africa, as well as the endless false information regarding the conservation status and population numbers of certain species in certain areas in Africa, like elephant and giraffe. This topic however is a whole other can of worms on itself and have so many facets that I cannot discuss all of it here. Maybe someday, after getting back to camp from a hard day of hunting in the African Bush, we can sit around a campfire somewhere in Africa and we can discuss this and maybe, you never know, we might find the solution….

Tell me about the successes you’ve had in both businesses. Both businesses come from small beginnings but with dedication and hard work we conducted many successful safaris and sent clients home with fond memories of an unforgettable experience. From the environmental side of the business assisting clients to resolve environmental issues and to obtain the required authorization to establish businesses such as lodges, agricultural developments, and breeding facilities.

Where do you plan to take your business in the next couple years?

From the safari side, to further expand our business locally and into other African countries to ensure that we can offer our clients a wide selection of trophy animals in high quality hunting areas, and to be able to offer clients, young and old, the ultimate tailored Africa safari experience. From the environmental side, to expand the business into other African countries and to also offer environmental management services to assist landowners to manage their farms in an environmental, sustainable way to prevent habitat degradation and loss of biodiversity.

What is a difference you see in the United States vs Africa where you live when it comes to hunting or agriculture?

Issues relating to the environment will be similar in different countries and the legislation relating to the environment would also be similar in certain aspects in the USA and Africa, however, the implementation and the enforcement of the compliance thereof can differ. I would also say that the Conservation models and regulation of the hunting of game differ quite a bit. For instance, in the USA wild game meat cannot be sold in butcheries and to the public as far as I know however in South Africa and most of the other African Countries it is legal to sell game meat under certain criteria and regulations. The hunting permit and license structure also differs quite a bit. We also do not have “Public Land” over here that anybody with a hunting license can go hunt. All hunting blocks, concessions, game farms and game reserves in most of the African Countries are managed areas and cannot be accessed by the public without permission of the landowner or managing authority like the concession owner, outfitter, reserve management, etc. At the end of the day, I think the conservation approach of Africa is much different to that of the USA because of a lot of other environmental and social factors like the livelihoods of the local people and communities that have to be taken into consideration, etc.

Where can people find more info about your business?

For Greater Africa Safaris, information is available on the website, www.greaterafricasafaris.com. Or contact Siegfried or Zandré at: Siegfried Osmers (Hunting Outfitter): siegfried@greaterafricasafaris.com

Mobile and WhatsApp: +27 82 436 4412

Zandré Osmers (Operations): zandre@greaterafricasafaris.com

Alternatively: info@greaterafricasafaris.com

BY NOEL GARCIA, CCA

VP-Operations and Senior Consultant, TPSLab

Enhancing Plant Performance Using Amino Acids

Every farmer’s dream is to achieve the goal of maximizing his plants’ genetic potential resulting in improved yields and quality for better profitability.

However, even with today’s agricultural technology advancements in fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides, it is still quite challenging to achieve that goal. Many of the limitations on plant productivity are based in the plant’s metabolism - essentially the fundamental biological and biochemical processes plants must carry out to grow. So let’s have a look at some of the biochemical and biological aspects of plants.

Plants, like any organism, require certain components for sustainable growth beyond soil, light, water, and oxygen. The basic component of all living cells is protein, the building blocks of which are amino acids - proteins are formed by sequences of amino acids.

Plants synthesize amino acids from primary elements, the carbon and oxygen from the air, hydrogen from water in the soil, forming carbohydrates by means of photosynthesis and combin-

ing it with the nitrogen which the plants obtain from the soil and through leaves, leading to synthesis of amino acids, by collateral metabolic pathways. Of the two chemical mirror image structures of amino acids, only one form - L amino acids are part of these proteins and have metabolic activity. Amino acid requirements in essential quantities are well known as a means to increase yield and overall quality of crops. Application of amino acids foliarly is based on its requirements by crops in general and are most effective at critical physiological stages. Plants absorb amino acids through the stomata and is proportionate to environmental temperatures.

Amino acids are fundamental ingredients in the process of photosynthesis. There are approximately 20 amino acids which are involved in the cell’s metabolic processes. Proteins have a structural function, metabolic function (enzymes), a transport function and a stock of amino acid functions. The other mirror image of the molecules, D-Amino Acids, are not recognized by enzymes and therefore cannot participate in protein synthesis.

Studies have proven that supplementing amino acids can directly or indirectly influence the physiological activities of the plant.

•

They are supplied to the crop by foliar sprays or by incorporating them into the soil. They help in improving the biota of the soil thereby facilitating the assimilation of nutrients. Unlike most organic fertilizers, amino acid-based fertilizer nutrients are readily available to the plant and are not dependent on microbial activity for digestion and release.

Abiotic (physical) and biotic (biological) stresses such as high temperatures, high or low humidity, low sunlight, frost, pest, hailstorm, high salt, floods and disease pressures have a negative effect on plant metabolism with a corresponding reduction in crop performance. The application of amino acids, before, during and after the stress conditions supplies the crops with amino acids which are directly related to stress physiology and thus have a preventing and recovering effect.

While Amino Acids play vital roles when it comes to many plant functions, they are in short supply in plants due to stresses that render them less able to perform when it comes to certain basic functions:

• Glycine and Glutamic Acid are fundamental metabolites in the process of forming vegetative tissue and chlorophyll synthesis. These amino acids help increase chlorophyll concentrations in the plant leading to higher degree of photosynthesis. Glutamic acid also acts as a cytoplasm osmotic agent of the guard cells. Thus, favoring the opening of the stomata. This regulation enhances water use efficiency which is critical in times of drought.

• Amino acids have a complexing effect on micronutrients. When applied together with micronutrients, the absorption and transportation of micronutrients inside the plant is easier. Glycine and Glutamic acid are known to be very effective complexing agents.

• Amino acids are precursors or activators of phytohormones and growth substances. Methionine is a precursor of ethylene and other growth factors. Tryptophan is precursor for auxin synthesis. L-Tryptophan is available only if an enzymatic hydrolysis of protein was carried out. Arginine induces synthesis of flower and fruit related hormones.

• Proline helps in the fertility of pollen. Lysine, Methionine, Glutamic acid are essential amino acids for pollination. These amino acids increase the pollen germination and the length of the pollen tube.

• Equilibrium of the soil’s microbial biota is fundamental for improved mineralization of nutrients from organic matter which improves soil tilth and fertility in the rhizosphere. Methionine is a precursor that stabilizes the cell walls of the microbial biota.

• Glutamic acid and Aspartic acid, by transamination (interconversion), give rise to the rest of the amino acids.

• Alanine,

Valine, Leucine improves quality of fruits.

Histidine helps in proper ripening of fruits.

Amino acid complexes also affect calcium uptake, especially complexing by utilizing glutamic acid and glycine. In nature, calcium reacts with phosphates forming insoluble tricalcium phosphate which leads to major calcium deficiencies. Complexing with amino acids not only enhances the uptake of calcium but also phosphate. This also prevents irrigation issues when injected

into drip lines where hard water plugs up emitters.

Historically, micronutrients have been applied as sulfates or as synthetic chelates, such as EDTA, DTPA, etc. However, a number of companies have come out with natural amino acid-chelated iron, copper, zinc, magnesium, manganese and the secondary nutrient, calcium, in recent years. Humic acid is also used to chelate molybdenum and manganese.

But the benefits of amino acids are hardly limited to micronutrients. Here is a short summary of some of the advantages:

● Amino acids alone are beneficial to plants and soil microbiology.

● They will complex with other nutrients present and make them much more efficient and rapidly plant-available. This allows lower application rates because of increased uptake with equal or greater plant performance.

● Amino acid chelates (and sulfates) do not require plant resources and energy to convert them to usable forms, as is necessary for the synthetic chelates – a factor in overall efficiency.

● The organic coating around the chelated nutrient allows it to penetrate the wax that covers the leaves of some plants thus assisting leaf absorption.

● They penet rate leaves easily, so are very much more plant-available than other chelates and the metal ions are immediately absorbed.

● They enhance growth and increase yield – taller plants with more branches.

● They improve the vigor and quality of the crop.

● They reduce toxicity.

● They perform better than other nutrient compounds in problematic (calcareous) soils.

● They are biostimulants which have positive effects on plant health, growth and yield.

● They can significantly mitigate injuries cause by abiotic stresses – including those caused by salty water.

● By reducing stress, they increase the plant’s natural resistance to diseases and in some cases, can mitigate disease progression in a plant already infected.

● They act as buffers which help maintain favorable pH within plant cells, particularly when salty irrigation water is used.

● They have a “cascading benefits” effect, moving from the plant to the soil to the soil’s microbiology effectively improving the quality of the plant-soil environment.

It is essential to have the necessary amino acids and energy available to the plant throughout the growing season to help it thrive even during adverse conditions – and especially at the onset of noticeable problems. It’s an insurance strategy that is even more critical and will pay back dividends as periods of prolonged environmental stresses become more common.

NCC Survey Suggests U.S. Producers to Plant11.4 Million Acres of Cotton in 2023

U.S. cotton producers intend to plant 11.4 million cotton acres this spring, down 17.0 percent from 2022, according to the National Cotton Council’s 42nd Annual Early Season Planting Intentions Survey. (see table attached)

Upland cotton intentions are 11.2 million acres, down 17.3 percent from 2022, while extra-long staple (ELS) intentions of 184,000 acres represent a 0.5 percent increase. The detailed survey results were announced today during the 2023 National Cotton Council Annual Meeting.

Dr. Jody Campiche, the NCC’s vice president, Economics & Policy Analysis, said, “Planted acreage is just one of the factors that will determine supplies of cotton and cottonseed. Ultimately, weather and agronomic conditions are among the factors that play a significant role in determining crop size.”

Using five-year average abandonment rates along with a few state-level adjustments to account for current dry conditions, Cotton Belt harvested area totals 8.8 million acres for 2023 with a U.S. abandonment rate of 22.6 percent. Using the five-year average state-level yield per harvested acre generates a cotton crop of 15.7 million bales, with 15.2 million upland bales and 466,000 ELS bales.

The NCC questionnaire, mailed in mid-December 2022 to producers across the 17-state Cotton Belt, asked producers for the number of acres devoted to cotton and other crops in 2022 and the acres planned for the coming season. Survey responses were collected through mid-January.

Campiche noted, “History has shown that U.S. farmers respond to relative prices when making planting decisions. Relative to the average futures prices during the first quarter of 2022, cotton prices are lower while the prices of most competing commodities are relatively unchanged. Price ratios of cotton to corn and soybeans are at the lowest level since planting the 2009 crop. In addition, production costs remain elevated.”

Southeast respondents indicate a 9.5 percent decline in cotton acreage to 2.4 million acres. In Alabama, the survey responses indicate a 12.9 percent decrease in cotton acreage to 379,000 acres. In Florida, respondents indicated 27.9 percent less cotton. Georgia growers expect to plant 1.1 percent less cotton, while the survey indicates a 25.0 percent decline in North Carolina’s cotton area. South Carolina growers expect to plant 7.8 percent less cotton, with Virginia growers reducing cotton acreage by 14.6 percent. According to the survey responses, the expected

decline in cotton acres is due to an increase in corn, soybeans, wheat, and peanuts. Mid-South growers intend to plant 1.7 million acres, a decline of 16.2 percent from the previous year. In Arkansas, acreage is expected to decline by 17.7 percent, while Louisiana growers expect to plant 19.8 percent less cotton. In Mississippi, cotton acreage is expected to decline by 29.4 percent. Missouri growers expect to plant 0.7 percent less cotton, while Tennessee acreage is expected to decline by 7.0 percent. Survey responses suggest an increase in corn, soybeans, wheat and ‘other crops’

Growers in the Southwest intend to plant 19.6 percent less cotton. Kansas growers expect to plant 1.7 percent more cotton, while Oklahoma producers expect to reduce cotton acreage by 5.8 percent. Texas acreage is expected to decline by 21.2 percent. Southwest respondents indicated an increase in corn, sorghum and wheat for 2023.

In the West, upland cotton acreage is expected to decline by 33.7 percent. If realized, this would be the lowest level on record for Arizona and California. Drought conditions and water availability issues continue to affect growers in the West. Upland cotton acreage is expected to decrease 10.9 percent in Arizona, 43.3 percent in California, and 61.7 percent in New Mexico. According to the survey responses, the expected decline in upland cotton acres is due to an increase in corn, ELS cotton, wheat, and ‘other crops’.

ELS acreage is expected to increase by 0.5 percent in 2023. Arizona growers expect to plant 15.9 percent more ELS cotton, while California growers expect to plant 8.5 percent less ELS cotton. New Mexico ELS cotton acreage is expected to increase by 12.0 percent, while Texas growers expect to plant 18.2 percent more ELS cotton. Overall, U.S. cotton growers intend to plant 184,000 ELS acres in 2023.

NCC delegates were reminded the expectations are a snapshot of intentions based on market conditions at survey time with actual plantings influenced by changing market conditions and weather. Producers will continue to monitor changes in commodity prices and input costs before finalizing their 2023 acreage decisions. Many producers will continue to face difficult economic conditions in 2023 with lower cotton prices and high production costs.

Prospective 2023 U.S. Cotton Area

Texas dairy producers face challenges amid good milk prices

Texas dairy producers continue to face challenges despite favorable milk prices over the past year, according to a A&M AgriLife Extension Service

Jennifer Spencer, Ph.D., AgriLife Extension dairy specialist, Stephenville, said milk prices remain historically good for producers, and demand continues to be strong for milk and milk products from cheese to ice cream. But higher input costs are eating into profitability, she said.

Texas dairies produced 15.1 billion pounds of milk as of Dec. 1 which was 6% above the same time last year. Spencer expect ed the 2022 total to be near 16 billion pounds by year’s end compared to 15.6 billion pounds in 2021, according to the Department of Agriculture.

Prices remained above $23 per hundredweight after fluctuating between $23-$25 per hundredweight in 2022, she said. The average price per hundredweight was $23.67. But dairy producers faced more challenges this year as higher costs cut into potential profits, Spencer said.

Feed costs represent about 60% of dairy producers’ expenses in an average year, she said. This year, drought and high fertilizer costs impacted forage yields, and prices for grains and supplemental feed like cotton seed increased dramatically as well.

Fuel costs and labor shortages also hindered dairy operators more than a typical year, Spencer said. “There was more opportunity for dairy producers to be profitable in 2021 because they didn’t have to struggle to keep up with feed and other rising costs,” she said. “It was a challenging year despite the good prices.” Texas dairies continue to follow industry trends that show dairy size and overall production are rising as the number of operations declines.

AgriLife Extension district reporters compiled the following summaries:

CENTRAL

Most of the district received 0.5-1.5 inches of rain. Recent precipitation improved soil moisture, but pastures were still in poor condition due to the hard freeze and drought. Warmer temperatures should improve pasture conditions. Livestock were receiving heavy supplemental rations. Hay supplies were extremely low. Wheat and oat conditions were improving. The moisture should help the upcoming corn plantings.

to heavy rains. Temperatures remained cool. Soils remained saturated with good subsoil moisture. Grain producers prepared equipment for planting while others finished fertilizing. Some fields were soggy, and producers held off on planting corn until they dried out. Winter pastures were producing well. Some oat pastures neared the point of grazing. Pastures remained mostly dormant, and livestock producers fed hay and protein. Extra supplemental feeding was still necessary as hay remained in short supply. Cattle were in good condition, and prices were steady.

EAST

Field and pasture conditions were soggy. Many counties reported pastures and fields were too wet to work in and equipment was getting stuck. Subsoil and topsoil conditions were adequate. Stock ponds and creeks were full. Pasture and rangeland conditions were fair. Livestock were in fair to good condition with supplementation taking place. Some producers were beginning to feed more cubes due to limited hay supplies. Flooded bottoms pushed feral hogs into more visible locations, and their activity had increased.

SOUTH PLAINS

Final cotton totals were extremely low. Heavy winter moisture, including snow, sleet and rain was reported. Livestock were in good condition, but the weather was hurting wheat production.

PANHANDLE

The Panhandle received some snow flurries, but no major accumulation was reported. The district remained very dry. Soil moisture levels were very short to short. Winter wheat was struggling due to the lack of moisture. Pasture and rangeland conditions were very poor to poor. Supplemental feeding of livestock continued.

NORTH

Soil moisture levels were short to adequate. Most areas were short on moisture, but producers in other areas were dealing with extremely wet conditions. A light freeze occurred. Some counties were struggling to recover from the hard freeze earlier this winter. Most ponds were filled by the rainfall. Wheat and oat conditions were improving. Hay was still in short supply in some areas. Cedar tree pollen was high. Livestock conditions were good. No insect or disease outbreaks were reported.

FAR WEST

Days were cold and wet then warm and dry. Daytime temperatures ranged from the mid-50s and lower 60s with lows in the mid-20s. Fieldwork picked up throughout the district as growers began discing or throwing up beds in preparation for corn or cotton planting. Orchard floor cleanup and pruning continued for pecan operations. Some farmers were hitting orchards and remaining alfalfa fields with irrigation still available from the water district. Irrigation was expected to increase in the coming weeks. Pastures were still bare with just a few weeds emerging. Livestock were in poor to fair condition and receiving supplemental hay and feed.

WEST CENTRAL

Topsoil moisture was decent following rain showers and the ice storm. Some field cultivation occurred before the most recent rainfall. Some small grain fields were top dressed with fertilizer before the rain and should respond favorably. Warmer, sunnier days were in the forecast. Pastures were still short on grazing, and producers were feeding livestock hay and supplements.

SOUTHEAST

Temperatures were milder. Soil moisture levels were adequate to surplus. Water was still standing in some fields following heavy rains. Conditions were muddy. Warmer conditions and improving pastures resulted in a stronger calf market. Wheat planting was behind schedule due to rain and soggy fields. Rangeland and pasture ratings were very poor to excellent. Conditions were favorable for planted wheat, ryegrass and other forages. Some green up was noted in pastures, including broadleaf weeds. Corn planting should start soon but wet fields could delay. Rains replenished stock ponds.

SOUTHWEST

Moisture conditions improved, but some areas remained dry. Trees were damaged by ice, and orchard operators were pruning trees and removing debris. Corn planting was expected to begin soon. Wheat and oats looked fair to good under irriga-

tion, and very few winter weeds were emerging. Supplemental feeding for livestock continued but decreased.

SOUTH

Soil moisture levels were very short to short in most areas with some southern areas reporting adequate soil moisture. Temperatures were cooler, with windy conditions and some scattered rainfall reported. Daytime high temperatures reached near 80 degrees. Producers were preparing for planting and monitoring soil moisture levels. Corn planting should begin when soil moisture becomes adequate for germination. Corn, sunflowers and sorghum were being planted in southern areas of the district with adequate moisture, but a rain would help those fields. Some planted fields were irrigated. Vegetable producers were harvesting cool-season crops. Onion yields looked good. Citrus and sugarcane were also being harvested. Pasture and rangeland conditions were poor, and grazing was limited in most areas, but some decent grazing was reported in southern parts of the district. Hay and feed prices continued to increase as producers continued to supplement livestock rations. Producers continued to cull bulls and cows, and market prices were strong to steady. Livestock were in decent shape. Mesquite trees were putting on leaves, and black brush were blooming. Wheat and oat fields were in good condition but dry conditions and freezing temperatures were showing in some fields.

It Takes a Village

WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM NRCS, A PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN NRG ENERGY AND TEXAN BY NATURE IS PROVIDING FRESH FOOD TO A TRI-COUNTY FOOD DESERT IN EAST TEXAS.

Food deserts are areas where a substantial proportion of the population doesn’t have access to supermarkets or large grocery stores, or where there is limited access to a variety of healthy and affordable food. While many assume food deserts exist mainly in urban areas, that is not always the case. Freestone, Leon and Limestone Counties in East Texas are considered food deserts, with many residents living more than 10 miles from the nearest grocery store. Statistics from Feeding America show there are 3.7 million Texans suffering from food insecurity. Although some residents in the tri-county area receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, those benefits do not stretch far enough to cover the needs for an entire month due to rapidly rising food costs. Gaining access to additional food is a problem, and access to fresh, healthy food is an even bigger problem because of the lack of grocery stores in the area.

Thanks to a partnership between NRG Energy and Texan by Nature (TxN), with a little help from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), that is changing. In 2019, NRG Energy, the leading power company in the United States, headquartered in Houston, Texas, contacted Joni Carswell, CEO and President at Texan by Nature (TxN) hoping to collaborate on a con-

servation project on a 10-acre tract of land that was formerly part of a lignite mining site. According to Mike Altavilla, the senior project manager at the NRG Jewett Mine, NRG is a steward of the land, so when mining is completed, the company looks for ways to return the land to a condition better than it was prior to the mining.

TxN began researching ideas for appropriate conservation projects in the area. After learning about the food insecurity in the counties surrounding the reclaimed mine site, Carswell approached NRG with the idea of a “service garden.” A service garden provides what is harvested to local organizations, rather than directly to individuals like a community garden.

Along with the 10 acres, NRG donated repurposed materials such as PVC and tanks. TxN got to work initially preparing one acre of land to begin what is now known as the “NRG Dewey Prairie Garden.” With financial assistance from NRCS through the Texas Urban and Rural Conservation Project (TURCP) grant program, TxN was able to leverage funds to install pollinator habitat, raised beds and a rainwater harvesting system at the garden. The TURCP was created in an effort to challenge community organizations, educational institutions and Indian tribes to focus on local

grassroots conservation efforts that allows hunger to be addressed in food deserts. Through the garden’s partnership with NRCS and the funds provided through TURCP, TxN was able to integrate conservation practices into the operation of the garden from the start. Due to the decline in bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects, planting pollinator habitat is a valuable conservation practice used across Texas to help increase pollinator populations. Native Texas plant species that attract pollinators include Maximilian sunflower, milkweed, Indian blanket and bee balm.

Raised beds were installed where soil conditions are degraded to increase plant health and productivity. The garden manager, Debbie Glaze, a certified master gardener, has been very successful using the raised beds to grow a variety of vegetables including tomatoes, bell peppers and jalapenos.

The rainwater harvesting system that was installed at the garden keeps energy costs down by capturing rainfall and directing it through pipes to a storage tank. The water captured can be used to irrigate crops which reduces the demand on the existing water supply and reduces run-off and erosion at the garden.

“This year alone, 1,000 pounds of fresh produce has been harvested from this one-acre garden and shared with five local food pantries in the three-county area,” Glaze said. It is estimated that between 1,500 and 3,000 Texans will benefit from healthy food from this garden each year.

For food pantry customers, fresh produce is a luxury item. “When our clients come each month and see fresh produce that they normally do not have access to, they leave with a huge smile,” said Novalene Thurston with the Oakwood Community Food Pantry. “There are no big box stores in the county, so opportunities to get fresh produce are very limited.” Peggy Wright with The Lord’s Pantry agrees. “Our clients are so appreciative to be able to supplement their monthly food box with the healthy produce from the NRG Dewey Prairie Garden. To have this produce to give means the world to us as well.”

“Grateful” is the best word to describe how clients of the food pantries feel about receiving fresh produce each month. So grateful, in fact, that several clients give back by volunteering at the garden and/or the local food pantry.

“Working in partnership with Texan by Nature, NRG Energy is able to positively impact community members in the tri-county area from a small parcel of land,” said Altavilla.

Jay Knight, an urban conservationist with NRCS agrees. “It’s easy to see the impact a farmer is making when growing hundreds or even thousands of acres of crops such as rice, soybeans, and corn, but to see the impact of a small one-acre garden on the immediate community is astonishing.”

It truly takes a village these days. When communities benefit from partnerships like the one at NRG Dewey Prairie Garden… everybody wins!

Bringing Insurance to Texas Fruit & Vegetable Growers

BY DANTE L GALEAZZI, Texas InTernaTIonal Produce assocI aTIon

n February 2021, the Texas fruit and vegeta ble industry lost nearly $380 million to the Valentine Freeze. Many farmers, packing houses, and sales firms across the state were devastated by that storm. Supporting industries such as chemical, transportation and packaging were hard hit as well since their businesses depend on the fruit and vegetable industry to have crop that will need their services. In many ways, the state industry is still building back from the impacts of that 2021 freeze (aka “Winter Storm Uri,” since naming every storm system that comes across the doppler radar is a thing now).

Part of the reason the recovery has been so slow is the tremendous amount of exposure the industry suffered as a result of limited insurance products for “specialty crops” – the government term that includes fruit and vegetable commodities.

As many farmers know, aside from onions, cabbage, and citrus, the remaining fruit and vegetable crops are left with only the USDA’s Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP).* With an AGI cap, payment limits of $125,000 per year, and a restrictive planting report system, the NAP program does very little to provide the financial coverage that is needed to Texas growers.

And in recent years, the U.S. Congress has pushed U.S. Department of Agriculture to tie receipt of any disaster payments to farmers to either having pre-purchased insurance, or to a committal to buy insurance for a number of years following receipt of the payment. This applies to programs such as WHIP and the new ERP (Emergency Relief Program), Phase 1 and Phase 2.

Now, for the news you likely did not know.

The Texas International Produce Association (TIPA), the Texas Vegetable Association (TVA), and the Texas Citrus Mutual (TCM) hosted a group in early December of 2022 from USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) and Farm Service Agency (FSA) divisions in South Texas. During the second part of their trip, the associations held a stakeholder meeting in which growers from across the valley shared their challenges, observations, and general opinions with regards to the lack of insurance products available to the fruit and vegetable growers in the area.

For example, growers talked about the challenges associated w/ NAPs timeline to report plantings and how difficult that could be when a grower is handling herb plants of less than 0.5ac per planting, with plantings happening every 48-72hrs.

Growers also shared how limited staffing at the FSA offices made scheduling timely appointments with staff nearly impossible. They noted that it was not for lack of trying on the part of the FSA’s staff either; the issue is the level of need in certain regions/counties exceeds the number of staff available to sufficiently address the needs of the area’s producers in a timely fashion.

Later that day, the group from USDA was taken on a tour of several grower and shipper operations in Hidalgo County, so that they could see in-person what many of the challenges discussed during the stakeholder meeting looked like first-hand. They visited fields and packing houses, spanning multiple commodities. Many had never visited a produce operation, which only further helped to provide the education and experience these agents needed to understand what the growers had been attempting to explain – that the insurance options currently available to fresh produce growers either did not exist or failed to provide the coverage that fit their operation.

In the weeks that have passed since their visit, these teams at USDA have shown a commitment to help the Texas fruit and vegetable industry look at a potential solution in this space.

The first request has been a call for data. The USDA RMA will undertake the efforts to create what is hopefully to become a pilot program for insurance of vegetables and fruits in South Texas. In order to begin such an effort, they are looking better understand the dynamics of the industry.

The information being requested is NOT going to be tied to individual companies. TIPA, TVA & TCM will collaborate to gather the data, to remove any information specific to singular companies, and to present the information as an “industry snapshot.” It will look at the types of products grown, the growing and harvest seasons, the time to reach maturity, and so forth.

Thank you in advance!

If you are interested in supporting this request for data and helping to bring insurance options to the Texas fruit and vegetable growers, please contact the TIPA staff at info@texipa.org.

KEEP EATING BEEF

BY KYLIE SELLMAN

he United States beef industry is in crisis coming into the 2023 production season. Increasing commodity prices, drought, and fear of recession is causing cattle producers and finishers to liquidate portions of their herd in an effort to survive.

Inflation has had an immense impact on the price of commodities over the past year. In an interview with Rio Beef Feedyard President, Mike Risica, he said, “commodity prices are the highest we’ve seen in 35 years.” However, inflation is not the only factor to this price increase. Risica expressed the difficulty in sourcing commodities needed to finish out the cattle in his feedyard as well. Due to the recent drought in North America, production of corn and cotton decreased, but the demand for them increased. Risica said his past average to feed a calf for 220 days was $700, but now that price has increased to around $1000 per head.

The multi-year drought has been brutal for farmers and the beef cattle industry as major reservoirs continue to deplete. Water is the most important nutrient to cattle, so this drought coupled with the intense heat the nation saw this past year has caused many American ranchers to lose their cattle. This loss of cattle has caused a decrease in cattle production which has made it difficult for feedyard operators like Risica to source their cattle.

While ranchers are liquidating their herds to survive, finishers are still having trouble sourcing their cattle due to the high prices at the sale barn. The impending recession could also cause the fat cattle market to stay high. Risica said, “finished cattle normally sell for $1.20 per pound, but now it is selling for $1.57 per pound,” as he expressed his concerns about the challenges they will face going forward.

More often than not, beef is the highest priced protein at the grocery store and is the first protein that people stop purchasing during a recession. Countries like Argentina and Brazil have picked up some slack for the United States beef industry, but the beef being imported from those countries are primarily grass-fed while US beef is primarily grain fed. When asked how the United States grass-fed beef industry has affected his operation, Risica said he has “seen little to no effect.” Grass-fed beef only accounts for about 1% of all beef produced in the United States. This is because it takes three times longer to produce grass-fed beef versus grain fed beef.

Grass-fed beef also has a different flavor and fat color than the typical grain fed beef which causes American consumers to often opt for the grain fed option. The future of the United States beef industry is still uncertain, but Risica said the most important factor in helping the industry is to “keep eating beef!”

Thank You!

I just want to say THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart for the opportunity to have the Ag Mag. First, I thank GOD for giving me the idea, my husband for never questioning my choice to quit my job with $200.00 and start the magazine, and of course to my backbone of the magazine, my graphic designer, Alfonso (Al) Benavides.

On top of that I would personally like to thank all those who have advertised with me throughout the years, to all my readers- even if I have grammatical errors (hey, no one is perfect,) and to all my support systems from mentors and friends that have listened to the good and bad, and helped me create this journey.

I would not be able to have this publication which has grown into a nationwide publication as well as TV show, if it weren’t for all of you! Thank you. I wish there was a way I could express my gratitude, because words simply don’t justify my gratefulness to every single one of you.

You all have helped change my life and I can only pray that I can bring you 50 more editions of Ag Mag while spreading the word of AGRICULTURE. I know my graphic designer Al and myself are so proud and honored to be able to provide you with 50 editions thus far.

May God bless you! Thank you again.

MORE THAN JUST INSURANCE!

We award $8,500 scholarships a year to graduating seniors that are Cameron County Farm Bureau members.

We spent over $11,000 at the Livestock Show on animal bids

Texas Farm Bureau has a mobile learning barn. H H H

We donated $7,500 to the Cameron County Fair & Livestock Show to build a new barn.

We donate to Sunny Glen Children’s Home in San Benito.

HYour Farm Bureau membership provides a lot of services to youth and community

Why you should join your Cameron County Farm Bureau

Mem

Farm Bureau promotes today’s farmers and ranchers! Support us today!

Anyone can become a member and take advantage of all these services for only $49.00 a year Cameron

335 N. Oscar Williams Rd. San Benito, TX 78586 (956) 399-8183

National voice of agriculture, working through our grassroots organizations to enhance and strengthen the lives of rural Americans and to build strong, prosperous agricultural communities.

Meeting your needs as they grow

www.texasfarmbureau.com

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From Grass to Glass:

VOLLEMAN’S FAMILY FARM

The Volleman Family dairy heritage traces back to 1890 in Holland and Luxembourg; however, in 1993, Frank and Annette Volleman decided to move their family to Texas to live out the American Dream. The Volleman Family Farm was established in Gustine, Texas 30 years ago and started with 50 head of dairy cattle. The dairy is still family owned and operated from start to finish, and today they run over 4,000 head of dairy cattle. It is their mission to provide fresh, high quality milk to families across the State of Texas by producing all of their products with the environment, sustainability and traceability in mind.

The family wanted to get closer to the consumer, so they began co-packing their milk and launched in the summer of 2020, where they were added to 80 stores in just 6 months. In January of 2021, they began bottling milk out of their own plant. Through the big winter freeze in 2021, the Volleman Family was able to provide milk to grocery stores that were not able to get it from their usual source. This showed grocers across the state that they could depend on them, and Volleman milk bottles can now be seen on the shelves of over 400 grocery stores in Texas.

Traceability plays a huge role in the dairy operation. The forages used to feed the dairy cattle are grown right on the farm using sustainable farming practices. Every aspect of producing the cattle and crops used is part of a tedious cycle that the family is always trying to improve through new practices and technology. The Volleman Family finds that the use of sustainable, environmentally friendly practices is critical to leaving the world better than they found it. By running 4,000 head of dairy cattle, the farm produces 7 tanker loads of milk a day. This equates to a whopping 15 million gallons of milk per year.

The bottling service is merely scratching the surface of production by utilizing 4 tanker loads per week with the rest of the product being marketed through a milk coop. The Volleman Family finds it rewarding to be sustainable, traceable dairy producers as they continue to bridge the gap from grass to glass. They are truly living the American Dream as they continue to provide Texans with high quality dairy products.

For more information on the Volleman Family Farm, the products, or to locate a store visit the website at: https://vollemansdairy.com/

Record Numbers not the Only Striking Thing About 2022 U.S. Ag Trade

2022 was another record year for U.S. agricultural trade, with both export and import values reaching new peaks. Export value topped $196 billion, which, relative to 2021, was an increase of $19.5 billion or 11%. The 2022 increase comes after a nearly 18% – or $26.8 billion – jump from 2020 to 2021. For context, the average year-over-year increase in ag export value over the last decade has been 3.3%. On the other side of the ledger, ag imports by value also increased significantly over 2021, up 16% or nearly $28 billion. Again, strong 2022 imports followed a strong increase in 2021 as well. The 2022 increase comes after a nearly 17% – or $24.3 billion – rise from 2020 to 2021. The average year-over-year increase in ag import value over the last decade has been 6.7%. The U.S. ended 2022 with an agricultural trade deficit of $3 billion. This is the second time it has done so in the last 10 years, during which the 10-year average has been a trade surplus of $12.5 billion.

Export Markets

In 2022, U.S. exports remained concentrated in the top six markets. Sixty-seven percent of U.S. ag exports were to China ($38.2 billion), Mexico ($28.5 billion), Canada ($28.3 billion), Japan ($14.6 billion), EU-27 ($12.3 billion) and South Korea ($9.5 billion). As shown in Figure 3, exports by value to all six of these markets increased in 2022 relative to 2021, though a very strong dollar and elevated ocean freight rates took a toll, particularly, in Japan and South Korea, where exports by value only increased by 3% and 2%, respectively. It is worth noting the long trend of growth in U.S. agricultural exports to developing countries (12%), which outpaced export growth to developed countries (9%).

Exports by Product

Despite these rosy high-level numbers, 2022 trade data deserves deeper digging to uncover the interesting story lines sitting below the glossy surface. The first significant narrative is the sharp contrast between changes in export value versus changes in export volume. As noted above, export value across all products increased by 11% year-over-year, but export volume actually declined by 6%. Despite substantial increases in value across almost all categories, many categories of agricultural exports declined in volume in 2022. In Figure 2, we see that of the 14 included product categories, eight declined in export volume, while six increased. Starting on the positive side, cotton had the largest increase in volume – a whopping 16% - led by a 68% increase to China, U.S. cotton’s largest market in 2022. Soybeans also experienced an 8% increase in export volume, though the increase was attributable to a larger group of trading partners. U.S. soybean sales by volume were up by 11% to China, 21% to Mexico, 12% to Egypt, 17% to Japan, 37% to Germany and 30% to Taiwan – and those are just the 1-million-metric-tons-or-higher markets. Several livestock and livestock-related exports increased by volume. Poultry meat and products (excluding eggs) increased by 2.5%, beef and beef products increased by 2.8% and dairy products increased by 5.6%. Rounding out the six products with increased export volume, tree nuts increased 2.8%.

In 2022, China topped the list as the major market with the largest year-overyear increase in U.S. ag exports by value at 16%. Last year U.S. agricultural exports to China were nearly $10 billion higher than the next largest market, Mexico. Despite this significant growth, U.S. market share in the Chinese market remained relatively stagnant in 2022 at 18.8%. It was 18.5% in 2022. Meanwhile China’s ag exports from all destinations topped $216.9 billion in 2022, an increase of 5.5%, or $11.4 billion, from 2021. It is worth pointing out that Brazil’s market share increased to 24.2% in 2022, up from 22.1% in 2021.

Economic Pressure Remains

BY COTTON T. NELSON

National Cotton Council economists point to a few key factors that will shape the U.S. cotton industry’s 2023 economic outlook.

This past year can be characterized as a year with significant uncertainty and volatility in the global economy and the world cotton market. The U.S. cotton industry continues to navigate an environment characterized by increased production costs, slumping consumer de-

mand, and supply chain disruptions. Although modest economic growth is projected for the next two years, the projected growth represents a slowdown from the prior two years.

In her analysis of the NCC Annual Planting Intentions survey results, Dr. Jody Campiche, the NCC’s vice president, Economics & Policy Analysis, said the NCC projects 2023 U.S. cotton acreage to be 11.4 million

acres, 17.0 percent less than 2022. While production costs remain elevated, cotton harvest-time futures prices are currently 16.5 percent less than a year ago and the prices of most competing commodities are relatively unchanged. The current economic signals are reflected in the 2023 survey results as many growers indicated a shift away from cotton to other competing commodities.

Using five-year average abandonment rates along with a few state-level adjustments, Cotton Belt harvested area totals 8.8 million acres for 2023 with a U.S. abandonment rate of 22.6 percent. Using the five-year average state-level yield per harvested acre generates a cotton crop of 15.7 million bales, with 15.2 million upland bales and 466,000 extra-long staple (ELS) bales.

Campiche said world production is estimated to increase

during the 2023/24 marketing year. As one of largest markets for U.S. cotton, U.S. mills continue to be critically important to the health of the cotton industry. In the face of rising textile imports from Asian suppliers, the U.S. textile industry has focused on new investment and technology adoption in order to remain competitive. Preserving important trading arrangements in the Western Hemisphere is also critical to the U.S. textile industry’s health.

A projected increase in world consumption for the 2023/24 marketing year along with a larger U.S. supply results in a higher U.S. export projection as compared to 2022/23. When combined with U.S. mill use, total offtake is lower than expected supply, and ending stocks are projected to increase to 5.3 million bales. World ending stocks are projected to decline slightly in the 2023/24

slightly to 115.9 million bales in 2023/24 due to an increase in harvested acreage. Overall, the outlook for world cotton demand for the 2023/24 marketing year takes on a more positive tone as compared to 2022/23 with the expectation of improving global economic conditions. For the 2023/24 marketing year, world consumption is projected to increase by 4.7 percent to 116.1 million bales. The removal of COVID-19 restrictions in China should provide a boost to cotton consumption in 2023. The International Monetary Fund has projected an increase in China’s growth rate from 3.0 percent in 2022 to 5.2 percent in 2023. With expanded consumption in key importing countries, world trade is projected to increase to 44.2 million bales in 2023/24.

Regarding domestic mill cotton use, the NCC is projecting an increase in U.S. mill use to 2.3 million bales

marketing year to 89.9 million bales, resulting in a stocks-to-use ratio of 77.5 percent.

The current economic outlook for the U.S. and global economies should be viewed with caution as several downside risks are present. Continued impacts of tighter monetary policy, high inflation, the Russia-Ukraine war, potential for severe COVID-19 health impacts in China, geopolitical tensions, currency pressures in key importing countries, and slower economic growth could affect cotton demand in 2023 and put downward pressure on cotton prices.

Additional details of the 2023 Cotton Economic Outlook are on the NCC’s website

What is data analytics in agriculture?

BY DEREK EMERINE

What is data analytics in agriculture?

The answer to this question ultimately depends on who you are asking. Equipment manufacturers tend to think about monitoring and understanding fuel efficiency, operating efficiency, maintenance intervals, and wear and tear. Prominent seed companies tend to think about how their varieties or hybrids perform across different geographies, soil types, climates, and fertility levels. Agronomists tend to think about soil fertility levels and plant tissue levels and the relationship they have to each other, different growth stages, crops, and ultimately yield. Today’s progressive growers generate massive amounts of data that can include machinery telemetry, georeferenced yield maps, georeferenced soil samples, plant tissue samples, and general application and as applied records.

Why is this important?

Today everyone with a smart phone, internet browser, social media account, or credit card is generating data that is constantly being analyzed to drive advertising and algorithms that supposedly match us based on our specific data. Most of the time this is done in the background without awareness of the user. Agricultural producers have an opportunity to decide which data they want to share and with which partner they are willing to share this data with (equipment dealer or manufacturer, ag. input retailer, seed company, etc.). Important questions to consider before sharing your data with a partner include the following:

• Will my data be shared with or sold to other companies?

• What kindof benefit can I expect in return for my data?

Sharing data with partners that clearly outline the details of data ownership is usually preferable. Although opinions vary on the usefulness, legality, and moral integrity of how data analytics is employed in our daily lives; there are some promising ways utilizing data analytics with agronomic data can be valuable and useful. For decades now, agricultural retailers have been recommending and taking part in precision soil sampling, collecting yield monitor data, and collecting plant tissue samples in season.

There are also many precision agriculture software products that monitor current and historical rainfall, temperature, relative humidity, etc. These are exciting times in the world of agronomy and precision agriculture because we are beginning to look at all these data sets holistically and how they relate to each other. Historically agronomists have looked at each of these data sets individually and helped growers improve production.

The value of precision soil sampling, plant tissue sampling, yield monitor data collection, etc. are still important on their own. This is especially true with current fertilizer prices and the volatility surrounding them. However, there is a lot of untapped potential in looking at these data sets together and the relationships between them. The value of collecting agronomic data will continue to increase and will most likely play a role in future fertility recommendations that could be constrained by environmental and sustainability regulations.

As growers and producers, it makes sense to question and identify which businesses you currently work with will be the best partners to share data with in the future. Lastly, it is never too late to start collecting agronomic data on your operation. The greater the quantity, quality, and diversity of data types from your operation the better the outcome will ultimately be by improving recommendations and efficiency that improves ROI on agronomic inputs.

If you want labor Q1 2023, you need to ACT NOW!

TEXAS FARM BUREAU FILES LEGAL CHALLENGE TO NEW WOTUS RULE

Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) filed a legal challenge today to the new Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule recently announced by the Biden administration. TFB joined Matagorda County Farm Bureau, American Farm Bureau Federation and 15 other organizations representing agriculture, infrastructure and housing in filing the lawsuit against the rule issued by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

“Texas farmers and ranchers cannot know whether their property or project contains WOTUS, because the rule is hopelessly vague,” TFB President Russell Boening said. “The rule reaches far too broadly to

cover wet patches and areas that are usually dry or remote from navigable water. The rule violates the Clean Water Act and the Constitution, as well as Supreme Court case law, and it should be struck down.”

Boening said the rule will require landowners to hire environmental consultants, attorneys and engineers to ensure they are in compliance while trying to farm their land. He said the rule will have broad impacts throughout the country.

“It will slow down or halt projects, increase costs, eliminate jobs, all without improving water quality, which Congress trusted states and localities to regulate where navigation is not involved,” he said.

GROCERY SALES SLOWDOWN, BUT GROWTH IN PICKUP A

n aging U.S. population and declining household size could weigh down online and in-person grocery sales in the next five years.

U.S. online grocery sales are forecast to grow at a compound average growth rate of 11.7% in that time, increasing online’s share of overall grocery spending from 11.2% in 2022 to 13.6% in 2027, according to a news release from the 2023 Brick Meets Click/Mercatus 5-Year Grocery Sales Forecast.

Persistent price inflation, ongoing concerns about illnesses — such as COVID, RSV and the flu — and a maturing online segment are factors contributing to the outlook.

“This forecast reflects that the projected growth of online grocery sales is slowing after the significant gains of the last two-plus years,” Brick Meets Click partner David Bishop said in the release. “Now more than ever, grocers need a grounded view of the future market while simultaneously strengthening the customer experience to protect their base business and improving the profitability of this higher cost-to-serve mode of shopping.”

INFLATION EFFECT

Excluding the impact of price inflation, total grocery sales — or combined online and in-store sales — are projected to grow at a 2.5% compound average growth rate over the next five years, driven by a 1.7% increase in household spending and 0.8% gain in the number of households. An aging population and declining household size are weighing down both measures.

Related news: More than 50% of U.S. households ordered groceries online in December

Persistent grocery-related inflation is expected to continue at a five-year compound average growth rate of 4.8%, starting from 2022’s rate of 10.9% versus the prior year and tapering down to 2.8% by 2027.

The impact of this ongoing price inflation is not evenly distributed. Inflation fuels nearly three-quarters of the projected gains for in-store sales but accounts for less than half of the gains expected for online sales.

Health concerns drive the demand for online grocery to some degree, and this is likely to continue, according to the release. Concerns about contracting COVID-19 motivate about 10% of online grocery’s monthly active users, according to the October 2022 Brick Meets Click/Mercatus Grocery Shopping Survey. The recent rise of other respiratory illnesses, such as RSV and the seasonal flu, is also motivating customers to shop online for groceries.

ONLINE-SHOPPING RECEIVING METHODS

In terms of online grocery segments, pickup sales are expected to grow at a five-year nominal compound average growth rate of 13.6% compared to 10.8% for delivery and 8% for ship-to-home. And pickup’s share of online grocery sales is forecast to expand from 45.4% in 2022 to 50.3% during 2027, at the expense of the other two segments.

Pickup is positioned to expand more than the other two receiving methods primarily because of expected increases in market availability. This is because a small portion of U.S. households lacks convenient access to any pickup service, and many U.S. grocery retailers are still in the process of rolling out pickup services across their base of stores, according to the release. In contrast, delivery is already saturated, with most customers having the choice of multiple home delivery options across a wide range of retail banners. Also, use of delivery is more sensitive than pickup to financial and health concerns.

SPENDING PER ORDER AND ORDER FREQUENCY

Spending per order and order frequency rates are both anticipated to increase but to varying degrees across the three online segments.

Average order values over the next five years are projected to grow at a compound average growth rate between 4.2% and 6.4% (inclusive of inflation) with ship-to-home coming

in at the lower end, delivery in the mid-range, and pickup on the higher end. At the same time, order frequency among active users is anticipated to increase from 1.9% to 3.3%, again with ship-to-home at the lower end, delivery in the mid-range, and pickup on the higher end.

“When it comes to achieving online channel profitability, my advice to grocery retailers is: Work smarter, not harder, and focus on the fundamentals,” Mercatus President and CEO Sylvain Perrier said in the release.

“Know who your customers are and the value you provide them. Use that insight to deliver a more personalized brand experience that is consistent and frictionless. Take steps to improve margins using simple tactics like offering lower cost pickup services, engaging with multiple third-party delivery providers, and leveraging first-party retail media to offset the cost to serve online customers.”

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