Your Ag Info Center--680 KFEQ

National Center for Soybean Biotechnology Expands With Soybean Genome Mapping Facility

2006-10-02T10:34:00.000-07:00

Today the Missouri Soybean Association (MSA) applauded the opening of the Soybean Genome Mapping Facility, an expansion of the National Center for Soybean Biotechnology (NCSB) at the University of Missouri (MU) in Columbia, Mo. NCSB scientists play a national leadership role in developing improved soybean varieties to keep U.S. producers competitive in the marketplace.
“This facility is instrumental in helping Missouri soybean producers develop improved soybean varieties,” said Dale R. Ludwig, MSA executive director/CEO. “Through funding supported by U.S. Senators Kit Bond and Jim Talent, Missouri remains ahead of the class in life science research.”
Renovations supported by Bond and the MU College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources gave $2 million toward the crop genomics laboratories in the Agriculture Building. Also, a National Science Foundation grant and matching funds program provided more than $1 million for genome mapping equipment.
The University of Missouri-Columbia was recently designated by U.S. Congress as the site for the NCSB. Its foundation was the Center for Soybean Genomics and Biotechnology, previously formed at MU in support of interdisciplinary research on the genomic structure and function of soybean genes. The ultimate goal of the NCSB is to provide innovative molecular approaches that can be applied toward soybean improvement.
The NCSB is a collaborative program among scientists at MU, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service Plant Genetics Unit in Columbia and the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center in St. Louis, Mo. There are currently more than 25 researchers working together from diverse fields including agronomy, microbiology and plant pathology, biochemistry, animal science, food science, molecular biology and agricultural economics.
In addition to receiving the NCSB support, scientists working in the center continue to be highly competitive for other funding from a variety of sources, including the Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council, federal agencies and private industry.
Strategically located in the heart of the nation, the NCSB aims to foster research partnerships with institutions in the Midwestern and Southern states, regions where soybeans are a major crop. Research within the NCSB focuses on major problems that affect soybean production and use. The Center also provides educational opportunities for students and outreach services to producers, public agencies and consumers.

Kansas Soybean Update: Kenlon Johannes

2006-10-02T09:40:00.000-07:00

The Kansas Soybean Association has been involved in talks with Wal-Mart about the possibility of using biodiesel in their truck fleet. Kenlon Johannes, Executive Director of the Kansas Soybean Association, joins us for this week's update.

Saturday Farm Feature: Mike Hergert

2006-09-30T04:05:00.000-07:00

It's harvest time in North Dakota, where Mike Hergert is a farm broadcaster at the Red River Farm Network. Mike gives us an update as to how this growing season has stacked up for producers. Mike tells us about the benefits they're seeing from adequate subsoil moisture and explains North Dakota's beet harvest.
On a lighter note, Mike shares his experience running and how he's preparing for the Marine Corp Marathon in Washington, DC next month.

Missouri Soybean Update: JP Dunn

2006-09-27T09:40:00.000-07:00

JP Dunn, Manager of Field Services for the Missouri Soybean Association, gives us this week's Missouri Soybean Update. JP has more information about Paseo Biofuels, a new farmer-investor group that has partnered with Cargill's Soybean Processing facility in Kansas City to build a new 40 million gallon biodiesel facility.

Iraqi Palm Dates Making a Renaissance Revival

2006-09-26T09:54:00.000-07:00

(Baqubah, Iraq) - The date palm tree has long been the cherished symbol of Iraq. Dates are the second largest export after oil.
During the 1950s, Iraq’s palm orchards produced more than 600 varieties of dates and, by some estimates, accounted for nearly 80% of the world’s supply. During the country’s golden era there were more than 30 million fruit producing trees.

But wars, neglect, improper drainage, and the scurvy of the dreaded Dobas bug left the industry in shambles.

Particularly hard hit was southern Iraq where 16 million date palm trees were cut down, burned and transformed into battlefields during the Iran-Iraq was in the 1980s.

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) stepped in last spring and distributed 4,800 date palm offshoots that will produce commercially valuable dates. The offshoots were given to 120 farmers in Muthanna, Basrah and the Basrah Marshlands, with technical assistance from USDA to ensure proper planting and cultivation.

In four years each farmer could realize a gross income boost of $7,000 per year.

The crop was facing another critical challenge - the pesky little Dobas bug which secretes a sticky liquid that interferes with the photosynthesis process.

This past May, Coalition partners and the Iraqi Department of Agriculture began an aggressive pesticide spraying campaign.

“We contracted Moldovan helicopters, painted them with Iraqi flag colors and outfitted the Moldovan pilots with Iraqi uniforms so we could safely treat thousands of acres of trees,” said Lieutenant Colonel Chris Johnson. The results have been astounding. After only one season of spraying, the date crop yield has increased by as much as 70%.

Baqubah was the venue for a mid-September dates festival where farmers, agriculture ministers and the public gathered to celebrate 84 varieties of a bountiful harvest.

Aboud Ahdim Abbas Mohammad, 56, is continuing a family date farming tradition that began in the 1880s.
“The spraying saved 75 of my trees and I’ve seen an 85% increase in date yields over last year’s harvest,” said Mohammad through a translator.

While grateful for the harvest, Mohammad is equally grateful for his life. Gunmen attacked him while he and his sons were harvesting. Thanks to a pistol that he keeps hidden in his traditional clothing he was able to fight his way to safety but not before taking a bullet to the arm.

Attending a visible festival might intimidate some farmers. But not Mohammad.

“Please take my picture. Tell them my name. This is my country and I will not be afraid.”

Photos and story by Paul McKellips, U.S. Department of State, Public Affairs GO Team, on assignment in Baqubah, Iraq.

Missouri Corn Update: Robyn Venn

2006-09-26T09:40:00.000-07:00

Missouri Ethanol LLC celebrated their Grand Opening on yesterday with over 3000 people in attendence for tours and the festivities. Robyn Venn is plant manager of Missouri Ethanol and gives us a background on the plant, where the plant is going and the role Missouri Ethanol is plaing in their community.

Kansas Soybean Update: Dennis Hupe

2006-09-25T09:40:00.000-07:00

Applications are currently being accepted for the DuPont Young Leader Program. Dennis Hupe with the Kansas Soybean Association is our guest for this week's update and tells listeners more about the program and how producers can apply or nominate an individual.

Saturday Farm Feature: Michael Martin Murphy

2006-09-23T04:03:00.000-07:00

Cowboy Music singer and poet Michael Martin Murphy is coming to Southwest Iowa for a concert this Sunday to help S.C.O.R.E. (Spinal Cord Research and Enrichment). We had the opportunity to visit with Michael about his music, his cattle and horse ranch and how he connected with Brooke Turner to put together this fundraising event.

*Tickets are still available for the concert, starting at 7:00pm on Sunday evening at the Clarinda High School Gymnasium. Go to www.krazykowboy.com for more information.

New Water Treatment Plant Delivering Fresh Drinking Water to Major Iraqi Cities

2006-09-22T10:19:00.000-07:00

(Ifraz, Iraq) - Iraq is drained by the Tigris-Euphrates river system, even though less than half of the entire basin lies within the country. Both rivers rise in the Armenian highlands of Turkey and are fed by melting snow.
The Great Zab River is a tributary to the Tigris and flows down through the high Zagros Mountains before joining the Tigris south of Mosul.
The Great Zab has been used for irrigation, flood control and hydroelectricity.
But now - thanks to an almost $200 million investment by the United States - the Great Zab is the site of a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers water treatment plant in Ifraz. The center is pumping fresh drinking water 20-miles southeast to the city of Erbil.
"Currently, the plant is pumping 4,000 cubic meters of potable drinking water per hour," said Nousak Raouff, who is a civil engineer and the project manager. "When the electrical grid is updated in January, we’ll be able to deliver 6,000 cubic meters per hour to the one million citizens in Erbil."
Two more clarifiers can be added as Erbil grows which would bring total capacity to 10,000 cubic meters per hour.
“Currently, the plant is pumping 4,000 cubic meters of potable drinking water per hour,” said Nousak Raouff, who is a civil engineer and the project manager. “When the electrical grid is updated in January, we’ll be able to deliver 6,000 cubic meters per hour to the one million citizens in Erbil.”
Two more clarifiers can be added as Erbil grows which would bring total capacity to 10,000 cubic meters per hour.
The plant pulls water from the Great Zab River into a tank where it is pumped through one of six giant, cylindrical, concrete clarifying tanks. The clarifiers remove heavy debris from the river. The water is then pushed through a filter of fine sand and charcoal. Chemicals are added to achieve optimum levels of pH and alkaline before being pumped through 20-miles of pipeline at 1.6 million gallons per hour to Erbil.
The water is fed to a 5.2 million gallon storage tank that sits high above - and 3 miles east of - Erbil in the village of Dawajin. Gravity then carries the water down into Erbil’s 54 sectors of network piping.
The collateral benefits of the water treatment plant are numerous. In addition to fresh potable drinking water the system is increasing water pressure at the tap which in turn reduces the potential for contamination.
Residents no longer have to wash their fruits, vegetables and meats in contaminated water. And since the old, historic wells can now be capped, the natural aquifer can be rejuvenated and used exclusively for Iraqi agriculture.

Photos and story by Paul McKellips, U.S. Department of State, Public Affairs GO Team, on assignment in Ifraz, Iraq.

Missouri Beef Update: David Dick

2006-09-22T09:40:00.000-07:00

This week's MBIC report features Chairman David Dick of Sedalia who recently returned from the Beef Promotion Operating Committee meeting in Denver where the fiscal year '07 budget for the national beef checkoff was approved. Cindy Zimmerman has this week's Missouri Beef Udpate.

Missouri Farm Bureau Board of Directors Votes to Oppose Amendment #2

2006-09-22T06:51:00.000-07:00

Based upon the policy adopted at the annual meeting of its membership, the Missouri Farm Bureau Board of Directors at its September meeting voted to oppose Constitutional Amendment #2, the so-called stem cell research and cures initiative.

The policy adopted by the Farm Bureau members at its last annual meeting reads as follows: “We are opposed to the cloning of human beings. We support adult stem cell research. We are opposed to the creation and use of human embryos or blastocysts for research purposes in which they are destroyed, discarded or knowingly subjected to risk of injury or death.”

Annually, the Missouri Farm Bureau spends almost six months in a process to determine its policy positions on a variety of issues. The process concludes with over 500 voting delegates, representing every county in the state, participating in Farm Bureau’s annual meeting in December.

Concerning the position taken by the Board of Directors on Amendment #2, Charlie Kruse, president of Missouri Farm Bureau, stated, “Stem cell research was discussed extensively by our membership during our policy development process. The 2006 policy adopted by our members clearly comes down on the side of opposing Constitutional Amendment #2.

“As discussed by our Board of Directors, Amendment #2 has important implications in the creation and protection of human life. Our members have great concern with the creation of human embryos that may then be destroyed in the name of science and research as allowed by Amendment #2. Our members are further concerned that the proposal may allow for human cloning.

“However, Missouri Farm Bureau policy supports adult stem cell research. This research has shown promise treating human illnesses and is allowed by state and federal laws. Amendment #2 is not needed to continue adult stem cell research.”

House Agriculture Committee Passes Resolution Embracing New Energy Vision

2006-09-21T15:18:00.000-07:00

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The House Committee on Agriculture today approved H. Con. Res. 424, which embraces a new national vision of meeting 25% of the nation’s energy needs from renewable sources by 2025.

The 25x’25 resolution has the support of a broad coalition including agriculture, industry, and environmental leaders, as well as governors, four state legislatures, over 80 co-sponsors in the House of Representatives, and 27 co-sponsors in the Senate.

“25x’25 is a bold energy vision for this nation,” said Read Smith, Co-Chair of the 25x’25 Steering Committee. “It has the support of Republicans, Democrats, industry, and environmental leaders – and the agriculture and forestry communities are at its heart. All of the 25x’25 partners have shown great leadership in helping to forge a new energy future.”

Lead sponsors include: Reps. Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.), Collin Peterson (D-Minn), Marilyn Musgrave (R-Colo.), Mark Udall (D-Colo.), Frank Lucas (R-Okla.) and Earl Pomeroy (D-N.D.); and Sens. Charles Grassley (R-Iowa), Ken Salazar (D-Colo.), Dick Lugar (R-Ind.) and Tom Harkin (D-Iowa).

Over the last two years, support has been building for the 25x’25 initiative, which would tap renewable energy sources such as wind, solar and biofuels. More than 275 organizations have endorsed the vision, along with 18 governors, including: Governors Jeb Bush (R-Fla.), Mitch Daniels (R-Ind.), Jim Douglas (R-Vt.), Jim Doyle (D-Wis.), Robert Ehrlich (R-Md.), Ernie Fletcher, (R-Ky.), Jennifer Granholm (D-Mich.), Dave Heineman (R-Neb.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), John Lynch, (D-N.H.), George Pataki (R-N.Y.), Tim Pawlenty (R-Minn.), Ed Rendell (D-Pa.), James Risch (R-Idaho), Brian Schweitzer (D-Mont.), Kathleen Sebelius (D-Kan.), Bob Taft (R-Ohio), and Tom Vilsack (D-Iowa).

“Today’s vote is a powerful endorsement of renewable energy, and we commend the leaders on the House Agriculture Committee who supported this vision,” said Reid Detchon, Executive Director of the Energy Future Coalition, which works with 25x’25. “Setting the goal of 25x’25 is the critical first step in moving us toward an America that is more secure, more environmentally stable, and energy self-sufficient.”

Several members of the Agriculture Committee expressed support for the passage of H. Con. Res. 424:

* Rep. Bob Goodlatte, Chair of the Agriculture Committee, said, "I am pleased that the Committee today passed the 25x'25 initiative. Increased development of renewable fuels opens new markets for our nation's producers, provides consumers with a safe, sustainable, environmentally friendly, and renewable source of energy, and decreases our nation's dependency on foreign oil thereby likely lessening the negative effects of severe spikes in oil prices on consumers. The Committee will continue to work to ensure that a number of opportunities are explored to ensure that we can turn the 25x'25 goal into a reality."

* Rep. Collin Peterson (D-Minn.), Ranking Member of the Agriculture Committee, said, "Today the Agriculture Committee recognized the importance of expanding the production and use of renewable energy sources by passing the 25 by 25 resolution. This is an important priority, not just for agriculture, but for the entire country as we pursue energy independence."

* Rep. Stephanie Herseth (D-S.D.), member of the Agriculture Committee and Co-chair of the House Rural Working Group, said, "Renewable fuels like ethanol and biodiesel are the key to reducing our dependence on foreign oil, strengthening our national security and revitalizing rural American economies. With the 25x‘25 initiative we are setting an ambitious, achievable and necessary goal that will be critical to our national energy needs in the future. I'm particularly supportive of investment in research to continue to develop groundbreaking technologies that increase the efficiency of the process."

Beef and Forage Reports Set for MU Field Day in Columbia

2006-09-21T10:51:00.000-07:00

Beef and forage producers will hear and see researchresults in 17 demonstrations throughout a beef field day, Oct. 7, at theUniversity of Missouri South Farm.
"These are ideas that farmers can take home and use," said Monty Kerley,MU professor of beef nutrition. Major discussion areas are beefreproduction and nutrition, and agronomy.
The field day features present research and extension programs, Kerleysaid. There also will be a look ahead to new research at the beef farm,officially known as the MU Beef Research and Teaching Farm.
"Farm buildings, feedlots and grazing paddocks are being upgraded toallow us to do new things," Kerley said.
MU students and their professors will begin demonstrations at 9:00 a.m.,running through 4:30 p.m. Registration opens at 8 a.m.; coffee anddoughnuts will be served.
Ten demonstrations on beef feeding include forage management forefficient cows, feed-bunk management, use of ethanol byproduct feedssuch as dried distillers grains (DDGS), and optimal levels of DDGS forcalves on tall fescue pastures.
In the forage agronomy section, Rob Kallenbach, MU Extension specialist,will lead pasture walks on the new grazing paddock system. Researchersare working to provide year-round grazing for the beef herd. They alsowill tell about pasture weed management, forage systems for stockercalves and Roundup Ready alfalfa.
In beef management, producers can see "inside" a calf's body withultrasound devices used to study carcass composition.
MU geneticists will talk about the role of cattle disposition and on theimportance EPDs (expected progeny differences) in sire selection.
New methods of synchronized breeding in herds will be discussed anddemonstrated by David Patterson, MU Extension beef reproductionspecialist. His team developed methods to breed all cows in a herd onone day.
Patterson's group will tell how to join the Show-Me Select Heiferprogram that develops replacement heifers with improved genetics. Theywill share new methods of synchronized breeding of heifers developed aspart of the Show-Me Select project.
Guest speakers at noon will include Mike John, Huntsville, Mo., rancherand president of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association. He willbring industry updates.
Fred Ferrell, director of the Missouri Department of Agriculture, willtell of the importance of the beef industry to the state's economy. Healso will discuss the state's programs for quality systems assessment(QSA) and for Missouri-branded beef.
MDA officials will have a booth to register premise identifications forthe federal disease tracking program.
Ron Plain, MU livestock economist, will give a beef price outlook.
There will be drawings for door prizes during the free luncheon. Peopleplanning to attend the lunch are asked to make reservations by callingJudy Burton at 573-882-7327.
"The MU beef farm is easy to see, but somewhat difficult to reach," saidPhillip Brooks, MU farm manager. The farm is just north of the KOMU-TVtower, near U. S. Highway 63 south of Columbia. Turn east on Old MillersRoad, just south of the TV station. "The landmark for the turn is theweather radar dome," Brooks said.
"Come see us, but be careful crossing the busy four-lane highway."

The name is changing, the values aren't - Farm Credit Services of Missouri is now FCS Financial

2006-09-21T10:35:00.000-07:00

Farm Credit Services of Missouri, an organization that counts 90 years of proven expertise in rural financing, has changed its name to FCS Financial. This change will provide additional service offerings, but will not change the strong, enduring values of the organization.
"We've realigned our brand to better serve the needs of our customers on the basis of three areas: the changing rural marketplace…the competition…and the future of the industry, " says Daryl Oldvader, Chief Executive Officer of FCS Financial. "We're not moving away from ag lending, in fact, we remain fully committed to this area upon which our organization was built. We've recognized the marketplace changes and are expanding our services to reach a quickly growing new segment, while remaining focused on rural Missouri."
According to Oldvader, the name change was initiated in response to rural Missouri dynamics:
The 2002 Census of Agriculture showed a decrease in the number of traditional/full-time farmers. Unlike that group, non-traditional/part-time farmers or "rural lifestylers" are on the rise. Given this shift in the rural landscape and the corresponding change in customer needs, FCS Financial realized the need for additional financial service offerings.
Through research, FCS Financial learned that the "Farm" in their name was seen as excluding individuals who sought land in rural Missouri. By repositioning the brand identity, there is more concentration on the service offerings FCS Financial provides.
To increase brand strength and viability in the marketplace, FCS Financial has expanded its services and created two sub-brands: Ag & Business and Land & Home. The Ag & Business sub-brand will continue to focus on customers whose needs involve agriculture and agribusiness. This includes farm real estate purchases; operating expenses; equipment, machinery, and livestock loans; and risk management tools such as crop insurance, livestock risk protection insurance and life insurance. The Land & Home sub-brand will reach out to customers seeking loans for rural homes, investment properties or lots and acreages; insurance products; and equity lines of credit. Additional financial products round out the offerings along with an acute knowledge of the rural marketplace held by FCS Financial employees.
"Both customer segments represented through the sub-brands are extremely relevant and viable to Missouri Agriculture," noted Oldvader.
As for current FCS Financial customers, there will be no changes to interest rates, contract agreements or terms of service.
Oldvader concludes, "Through professionalism, integrity and expertise, we at FCS Financial offer our customers the best possible service and expertise available in the financial arena. And we will continue to fully serve all those living in rural Missouri."
FCS Financial was built on serving Missouri agriculture and is committed to delivering meaningful ideas and solutions that provide value to its customers. With the changing landscape, FCS Financial is now positioned to serve all those who want to enjoy the lifestyle that rural Missouri offers.

Ag News: Southeast Kansas Drought

2006-09-21T07:08:00.000-07:00

While much of the KFEQ listening area has had a decent weather pattern this season, some areas of the Midwest have been affected by dry conditions. Gary Kilgore with Kansas State University Extension told me the wheat crop did well, but corn and soybean yields and pasture conditions have suffered.

Farm Futures Survey Shows Corn Plantings Could Reach Highest Level in More Than 50 Years

2006-09-20T14:08:00.000-07:00

U.S. corn growers have yet to harvest their 2006 crop, but they are already thinking about a huge increase in plantings next spring, according to an exclusive survey by Farm Futures magazine. In fact, if early intentions for 2007 hold, farmers could devote the most acres to corn since before 1950.Lured by high prices already posted for 2007 corn, farmers say they’d like to plant 85 million or more acres of the crop. USDA says farmers planted 79.4 million acres of corn this year.Farm Futures surveyed more than 550 growers by email from August 24 to September 14, in the first nationwide attempt to gauge farmer plans for 2007. Farm Futures survey of corn intentions for 2006 proved the most accurate of those released prior to USDA’s March 31 prospective plantings report.According to the magazine’s latest survey, farmers said they would like to increase corn acreage by 7% to as much as 9% next spring. That means plantings could reach from 85 million to as high as 86.6 million acres, says Senior Editor Bryce Knorr, who directed the survey.“Obviously, producers have a long time to change their minds, but this is an indication that farmers are hearing bullish talk for 2007 loud and clear,” says Knorr.Farm Futures Market Analyst Arlan Suderman isn’t surprised by the big jump in farmer planting intentions.“While that may seem like a lot of corn, exploding demand for ethanol during the 2007 crop year could require that much additional production to keep stocks from falling dramatically,” Suderman said.Strong wheat prices for 2007 are also like to encourage farmers to plant more of that crop, according to the Farm Futures survey. Seeding of 2007 winter wheat is already underway in some areas.The survey indicates total wheat acreage could increase at least 4% for the 2007 crop, rising from 57.9 million to 60 million acres or more.By contrast, low prices may cause farmers to rethink their traditional rotations and devote fewer acres to soybeans next spring. The survey showed farmers are thinking about planting 4% less ground to soybeans in 2007, cutting around 3 million acres off this year’s 74.9 million acres.Published nine times annually by Farm Progress Cos., Farm Futures provides business and management information to 205,000 large-scale, high-income U.S. farm operators.

Sen. Talent Calls for Senate Hearing & Department of Justice Review Over Merger

2006-09-20T13:08:00.000-07:00

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) U.S. Senator Jim Talent announced that he is requesting a Senate hearing and full review of the proposed merger of Smithfield Foods, Inc. and Premium Standard Farms, Inc. Sen. Talent sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales calling for review of the impact the merger will have on the agriculture economy, as well assurance of fair treatment for contract growers in Missouri. Additionally, Sen. Talent sent a letter to U.S. Senator Mike DeWine (R-Ohio), Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy and Consumer Rights, requesting a hearing to review the proposed merger.
Smithfield Foods, Inc., the largest company in the pork processing and pork production industry, and Kansas City based Premium Standard Farms, Inc., one of its larger competitors, formally announced the merger plans this morning.
"I have serious concerns that this merger may significantly impact the competitive environment in the pork production and pork processing industries," said Sen. Talent, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Marketing Inspection and Promotion on the Senate Agriculture Committee. "The plan deserves a thorough review by the Department of Justice in conjunction with the Department of Agriculture and a Congressional hearing. I will review the terms of the merger to ensure that Missouri pork producers who contract with Premium Standard Farms are not harmed and that competition in the marketplace is maintained."
In the letter, Sen. Talent also raised concerns over how the merger will affect competition in the pork industry. He asked that the Department of Justice (DOJ) conduct a thorough investigation through the Antitrust Division to ensure that it complies with the law and that it will do no harm to the competitive environment.
Sen. Talent sent a similar letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Mike Johanns requesting the Department’s review of the proposed merger. Smithfield Foods, Inc. has agreed to cooperate with any forthcoming reviews or investigations from the DOJ, USDA and Congress.

Missouri Soybean Update: Karen Funkenbush

2006-09-20T09:40:00.000-07:00

Karen Funkenbush is a Rural Health and Safety Specialist with University Extension at the University of Missouri. For Farm Safety Week, she joins us with reminders of being safe--not only during harvest season--but throughout the year.

Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Celebrates 25 Years of Business

2006-09-20T06:48:00.000-07:00

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (September 19, 2006) –Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc., (BIVI) is celebrating 25 years of business in the United States animal health market. A leading animal health company, BIVI has had many successes in the past and remains committed to the future in providing innovative animal health products to customers.
Ranked in the top ten animal health product manufacturers in the United States and part of the Boehringer Ingelheim global animal health business, BIVI manufactures and markets an extensive line of high quality biological and pharmaceutical products for cattle, swine, horses and pets for a worldwide network and plans to invest more in research and development over the next five years. According to George Heidgerken, BIVI president and chief operating officer, commitment is much more than just selling a product.
“This silver anniversary milestone presents the opportunity to celebrate our great contributions to the animal health industry, and to honor the dedicated people who are the backbone of our company,” he said. “Our quality, in addition to maintaining the ability to change and grow with the demands of the industry, has been very important in facilitating value through innovation.”
The BIVI St. Joseph campus hosted a week full of anniversary celebration events during the week of September 11. Monday included an employee meeting with presentations, Tuesday BIVI employees learned about the local Missouri FFA chapters and the FFA students learned about potential career paths within the animal health industry. On Wednesday, September 13, 25 local dignitaries and media representatives toured the St. Joseph campus with an in-depth look at the state-of-the-art packaging facility. And the event finale on Saturday, September 16, includes a sky diving team, local 4-H demonstrations, National Disaster Search Dog foundation, local entertainers of magic, juggling, stilt walking and a huge fireworks display to end the events.
The St. Joseph research facilities have a long tradition in animal health products. In 1981, Boehringer Ingelheim Corporation purchased the Anchor Serum Company, which was later renamed Philips Roxane, Inc., and then became the foundation of what is today Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. BIVI has become the world’s largest provider of swine biological products during that time, and the animal health business has been the fastest growing of any pharmaceutical company in the world the last two years.
The St. Joseph campus added a state-of-the-art biological manufacturing facility, a research and development complex and new centralized warehousing facilities. BIVI employs about 700 people across the country.
Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. (St. Joseph, Mo.), is a subsidiary of Boehringer Ingelheim Corporation based in Ridgefield, Conn., and a member of the Boehringer Ingelheim group of companies.
The Boehringer Ingelheim group is one of the world’s 20 leading pharmaceutical companies. Headquartered in Ingelheim, Germany, it operates globally with 143 affiliates in 47 countries and approximately 37,500 employees. Since it was founded in 1885, the family-owned company has been committed to researching, developing, manufacturing and marketing novel products of high therapeutic value for human and veterinary medicine.
In 2005, Boehringer Ingelheim posted net sales of US $11.8 billion (9.5 billion euro) while spending approximately one fifth of net sales in its largest business segment, Prescription Medicines, on research and development.

John Block Commentary: Farm Bill

2006-09-19T10:42:00.000-07:00

This week's John Block Commentary with former Agriculture Secretary Block examines agriculture policies of the past and where the next farm bill may take agriculture in the future.

If you'd like to reach John, his e-mail is jblock@ofwlaw.com.

Missouri Corn Update: David Vogt

2006-09-19T09:41:00.000-07:00

Missouri Ethanol LLC celebrate their Grand Opening on Monday, the fourth ethanol plant on-line in the Show-Me State. David Vogt, chairman of Missouri Ethanol joins broadcaster Ken Kujawa for this week's Missouri Corn Update from the Missouri Corn Growers Association.

Iraqi Farm Tractors Repaired After 30 Years of Neglect

2006-09-18T10:20:00.000-07:00

(Erbil, Iraq) - A joint effort between USAID and the Agriculture Reconstruction and Development Program for Iraq (ARDI) is nearing completion on a $28.9 million tractor repair and renovation program. Thirty years of wars, sanctions and a tyrannical regime silenced thousands of farm tractors.
After inspecting 10,000 tractors across the country, 5,000 were deemed repairable.
Tractor owners are not charged for the repairs.
USAID has partnered with Case New Holland and Massey Ferguson - whose brands make up the largest share of agricultural machinery in Iraq - to establish 14 workshops across the country.
Staffed by 180 trained Iraqi mechanics and using American international distribution and supply channels, these repair centers are serving the wheat and barley producing regions of Baghdad, Dohuk, Ninewa, Erbil, Wassit and the Sulaymaniyah regional governorates.
U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Zalmay Khalilzad and President Massoud Barzani of the Kurdistan regional government toured the repair shop in Erbil.
"This is tremendous. We need to get these tractors back out in the fields so that Iraq’s agriculture can flourish once again," said Khalilzad.
Sangir Suad Nafie is the manager of the Modern Iraq Company for Trading Agencies in Erbil. His shop has repaired more than 430 Model 780 Fiats which is under the Case New Holland brand.
"We’ve trained several Iraqi mechanics at the New Holland factory in Turkey under this program," said Nafie. "Now they have the skills to work in this industry for a lifetime."
Tractor owners have been bringing their machines into these shops for the last 9-months. Repairs range from engine and transmission overhauls to the replacement of brakes and starters.
The program delivers multiple benefits for tractor owners and dealerships alike.
Greater production in the field is leading to increased revenue for the farmer. Many farmers are earning additional service revenue by renting out their refurbished tractors to adjacent farms.
Increased farm revenue bodes well for dealers who hope to see a rise in sales of other farm equipment, implements and repair services. This program will directly expand cultivated lands by more than 111,000 acres. Agriculture officials estimate that 5,000 working tractors will help produce more than 67,500 metric tons of additional wheat, generating $4.7 million in annual grain sales.
Photos and story by Paul McKellips, US Department of State, Public Affairs GO Team, on assignment in Erbil, Iraq.

Kansas Soybean Update: Gary Kilgore

2006-09-18T09:40:00.000-07:00

The Kansas Soybean Association's annual soybean yield contest is underway. Gary Kilgore with Kansas State University Extension says producers can enter the yield or quality contest again this year.

Saturday Farm Feature: Classic & Antique Tractor Auction

2006-09-16T04:05:00.000-07:00

The 2nd Annual Antique and Classic Tractor Consignment Auction will be held on Saturday, September 23 at the Joe Lyle Auction pavilion outside of Savannah, Missouri. Joe Lyle and Greg Clement were my guests for this Saturday Morning Get Together for a talk about the auction, antique tractors and what's on the auction listing.

Senator Jim Talent

2006-09-13T12:36:00.000-07:00

US Senator Jim Talent visited with KFEQ Farm Director Tom Brand about 2 different issues in the forefront of Missouri agriculture this afternoon...Federal Assistance for producers affected by the drought in this year and in 2005 and his proposal to prohibit the National Animal Identification System (NAIS) from being mandatory, as has been suggested by the US Department of Agriculture.

Drought Assistance

National Animal ID

Missouri Soybean Update: Brooks Hurst

2006-09-13T09:40:00.000-07:00

Meetings continue across the Show-Me State for Paseo Biofuels, a biodiesel facility in Kansas City. Paseo Biofuels will operate under a joint agreement with the Missouri Soybean Association and Cargill. Brooks Hurst, a farmer from Tarkio and past President of the Missouri Soybean Association is our guest for this week's Missouri Soybean Update. Brooks tells about the background of Paseo Biofuels, the state of the renewable energies marketplace and how farmers can get involved.

John Block Commentary: Hurricane Katrina

2006-09-12T10:42:00.000-07:00

This week's John Block Commentary with former Agriculture Secretary Block looks back at where we were a year ago with the impact of Hurrican Katrina.

Missouri Corn Update: Jayne Glosemeyer

2006-09-12T10:40:00.000-07:00

The US Grains Council just completed their annual Corn Mission to Japan and China. Jayne Glosemeyer, a Missouri Corn Growers Association board member from Marthasville was part of the delegation and joins us for this week's Misosuri Corn Update.

Kansas Soybean Update: Lawrence Sukalski

2006-09-11T09:40:00.000-07:00

The American Soybean Association's 2006 Conservation Legacy Award winner is Lawrence Sukalski from Fairmont, Minnesota. On this week's Kansas Soybean Update, Lawrence joins us to talk a little about the award, his family farming operation and how producers can apply (or nominate a neighbor) for the 2007 award.

Saturday Farm Feature: Ken Root (part 2)

2006-09-09T04:05:00.000-07:00

Ken Root from WHO radio is our guest again this Saturday as we continue our discussion about his trip to the Middle East with Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns...a whirlwind trip that took less than 3 day from DC to Baghdad and back.

Missouri Soybean Update: David Durham

2006-09-06T05:20:00.000-07:00

David Durham, past chairman of the United Soybean Board and past Missouri Soybean Association President is board chairman of Paseo Biofuels, a new farmer-investor group that has partnered with Cargill's Soybean Processing facility in Kansas City to build a new 40 million gallon biodiesel facility. On this week's Missouri Soybean Update, David gives us an update of the equity drive, explains some of the details of the facility and how producers can become involved.

John Block Commentary: WalMart

2006-09-05T10:42:00.000-07:00

This week's John Block Commentary with former Agriculture Secretary Block talks about a topic popular in politics today...Wal-Mart

Saturday Farm Feature: Ken Root (part 1)

2006-09-02T16:05:00.000-07:00

Former AgriTalk host Ken Root is at WHO radio in Des Moines, Iowa. Ken joined me this week for a talk about the Farm Progress Show and to begin a conversation about his opportunity to travel with Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns to Baghdad.

Missouri Soybean Update: John Kleiboeker

2006-08-30T09:45:00.000-07:00

John Kleiboeker, Missouri Soybean Association Director of Field Services, updates listeners about Paseo Biofuels, and how producers who are interested in the renewable fuels market can get involved.

Missouri Soybean Update: David Durham

2006-08-09T09:38:00.000-07:00

Missouri Beef Industry Council Hires New Executive Director

2006-08-01T05:30:00.000-07:00

The Missouri Beef Industry Council (MBIC) board of directors has named John Kleiboeker of California, Missouri as the organization’s new Executive Director, effective September 1. Kleiboeker is a beef producer who has served as a volunteer member on the MBIC board since 2001 and has also represented Missouri on the national level as a board member of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Federation of State Beef Councils. According to MBIC chairman David Dick of Sedalia, "John has an impressive work history with management experience and an exciting vision for the future. We are pleased to have him transition from a volunteer leader to our staff director." As the Executive Director, Kleiboeker will manage the day-to-day activities of the Council, which is responsible for administering the $1 per head beef checkoff program in Missouri. His duties will include directing staff, overseeing budgets and programs, and producer communications. He will report to a board of thirteen elected beef and dairy producers. The Missouri Beef Industry Council uses checkoff dollars to fund promotions such as a summer grilling campaign through local grocery stores, provide educational materials for Missouri school teachers, and build networks with key influencers such as the Missouri Restaurant Association and Missouri Dietetics Association.

Saturday Farm Feature: Bill Becker

2006-06-22T07:28:00.000-07:00

LifeLine Foods' Chief Executive Officer stopped by the KFEQ studios for or Saturday Monring Get Together and gave an update of where they are at in the process of building their ethanol processing facility in St. Joseph.

DuPont to Announce a New Choice in Glyphosate-Tolerant Corn & Soybeans

2006-02-23T07:40:00.000-08:00

Pioneer Hi-Bred and DuPont will be announcing a new weed management system at the Commodity Classic next week in Anaheim. Pioneer notes that the new technology system will provide a choice in glyphosate-tolerant corn and soybean seed that maximizes yield potential, improves crop safety and expands weed control options.

The press confernce with this announcement is scheduled for Thursday, March 2.

Saturday Farm Feature: Bill Becker

2006-02-11T04:25:00.000-08:00

Last Friday, LifeLine Foods in St. Joseph announced their intention to build an ethanol processing facility in St. Joseph (see the news release below). Bill Becker, Chief Executive Officer of LifeLine joins me in the studio to discuss the background of LifeLine Foods and how the history of AgraMarke led to this recent announcement.

Missouri Soybean Update: Alex Stemme

2006-02-08T09:42:00.000-08:00

Alex Stemme, Director of Identity Preserved Products at the Missouri Soybean Association, is our guest for this week's Missouri Soybean Udpate. Alex shares information about what's going on in the international marketplace for Missouri Soybeans and previews an upcoming trade trip to the Phillipines.

Missouri Corn Update: Gary Marshall

2006-02-07T09:39:00.000-08:00

The University of Missouri's Commercial Agriculture Program has unveiled the results of a study examining the impact on ethanol production in the United States and the State of Missouri. Gary Marshall, Chief Executive Director of the Missouri Corn Growers Association, outlines some of the information from the study, along with a reminder about the ongoing legislation in Jefferson City that would establish a Renewable Fuels Standard in the Show-Me State.

Call your legislators today to support the
MISSOURI RENEWABLE FUELS STANDARD
Call 1-866-66-4-CORN (toll-free)

Kansas Soybean Update: Dennis Hupe

2006-02-06T09:38:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy year with trade shows, producer meetings, farm shows and other meetings for the Kansas Soybean Association. Dennis Hupe, Director of Field Service at the Kansas Soybean Association, tells us about some of the events they've attended and brings an update from the National Biodiesel Board meeting taking place this week.

Saturday Farm Feature: Ernie Rodina

2006-02-04T04:19:00.000-08:00

KFEQ welcomes the Checkerboard Corral to Sunday morning on KFEQ. Ernie Rodina, host of the weekly broadcast joined me this morning to visit about the program, the equine area in Northwest Missouri and Northeast Kansas and how the show has continued to develop.
Catch the Checkerboard Corral each Sunday morning from 6:30 - 7:30 beginning February 12 on KFEQ.

LifeLine Foods Announces Intent to Build an Ethanol Facility in St. Joseph

2006-02-03T13:27:00.000-08:00

(St. Joseph, MO)-February 3, 2006 – Today, Lifeline Foods, LLC announced their intention to construct an ethanol production facility in St. Joseph, MO. The project is estimated to consist of $60,000,000 in investment and create 35 new jobs. The facility will include the latest in ethanol processing technology and is expected to produce in excess of 40,000,000 gallons of fuel grade ethanol per year. According to Bill Becker, CEO, there are still ongoing discussions and details to be resolved prior to the start of the project, but we are optimistic that construction can begin later this spring. Much of the process will be integrated into our existing infrastructure and is designed to enhance and expand our current corn-based food manufacturing.

Lifeline’s expansion includes investment in the company by ICM, Inc. of Colwich, Kansas. ICM is a leading design and engineering firm in the ethanol industry. “We are very impressed with the St. Joseph community and are looking forward to our involvement with Lifeline and the future of food manufacturing.” stated Dave Vander Griend CEO of ICM. In addition to becoming a part owner in Lifeline, ICM also intends to install a pilot plant within the Lifeline complex. The intention is to perform ongoing testing and analysis which will support future development and growth in the industry.

As part of the transaction, a Missouri Cooperative, AgraMarke Quality Grains, Inc. will remain a majority owner of Lifeline. The cooperative consists of approximately 400 farmers from the states of Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska and Iowa. The farmers produce and deliver specific varieties of corn with enhanced milling characteristics. Lifeline processes the corn and produces food ingredients and retail ready products for several large food manufacturers in the US and abroad. The company currently has approximately 95 employees.

"I am pleased that Lifeline Foods has made a commitment to locate an ethanol production facility and create dozens of new jobs in St. Joseph." Governor Matt Blunt said. "Missouri's enhanced business climate, new incentive programs and our strong commitment to boost ethanol and bio-diesel production is bolstering Missouri's competitive advantage to
win these types of projects. This plant will also play a very important role in our efforts to expand our rural economies and boost the amount of ethanol in Missouri's gasoline supply, further reducing our nations dependence on foreign oil."

“The state of Missouri played a major role in our ability to locate the facility,” Mr. Becker added, “we feel that the legislative leadership in Missouri is very forward thinking and it is paying off in the form of job creation and community development.” Lifeline has also received strong guidance from the St. Joseph Area Chamber of Commerce and the Missouri Corn Growers Association. Additionally, we have always been appreciative for the support received from the City of St. Joseph and Buchanan County. With the vision and support of the leadership in this community, St. Joseph has a bright future.

Mayor David Jones stated, "This is another exciting announcement for St. Joseph. It is indication that our local economy continues to expand and add jobs. My congratulations to Lifeline Foods and welcome to ICM."

Missouri Soybean Update: Show-Me Ag Classic

2006-02-01T09:41:00.000-08:00

The annual Show-Me Ag Classic is underway in Columbia. Brooks Hurst from Tarkio tells us about today's agenda.

Missouri Corn Update: Gene Hugoson

2006-01-31T09:43:00.000-08:00

As Missouri lawmakers advance legislation that would set a renewable fuel standard in the Show-Me State, Minnesota Commissioner of Agriculture Gene Hugoson has some perspective on how Minnesota has made a standard work for over 10 years now and gives some advice to Missouri lawmakers.

Kansas Soybean Update: Kenlon Johannes

2006-01-30T09:44:00.000-08:00

The Kansas Soybean Association is paying close attention to the conclusions and recommendations of a Kansas Legislature Select Joint Committee on Energy as there are some provisions that are related to biodiesel. Executive Director, Kenlon Johannes explains some of the proposals and tell us about legislation that has been introduced or is coming up soon...

Missouri Soybean Update: Show-Me Ag Classic

2006-01-26T09:45:00.000-08:00

The annual Show-Me Ag Classic is next Wednesday and Thursday in Columbia, Missouri. Haley Wansing, Communications Director at Missouri Soybean Association gives us a preview of the agenda and welcomes producers to attend this year's meeting.

Charlie Kruse: Eminent Domain

2006-01-25T15:31:00.000-08:00

The Missouri Farm Bureau held a rally at the State Capitol in Jefferson City on today. Missouri Farm Bureau President Charlie Kruse joined me to talk about the issue of eminent domain before the rally began.

MO RFS: Governor Matt Blunt

2006-01-24T16:35:00.000-08:00

Missouri Governor Matt Blunt was the keynote speaker at tonight's meeting of the Missouri Corn Growers Association. Click the mp3 audio link at the left to hear my interview with him about Missouri's Renewable Fuels Standard.

MO RFS: State Representative Martin Rucker

2006-01-24T12:55:00.000-08:00

State Representative Martin Rucker (D-District 29) is the sponsor of House Bill 1027 which would set a renewable fuels standard in place for Missouri. Rucker visited with me about the legislation and its importance to Missouri consumers.

MO RFS: Ron Leon

2006-01-24T12:40:00.000-08:00

After offering testimony at the House regarding House Bill 1027, I had the opportunity to interview Ron Leon with the Missouri Petroleum Marketers and Convenience Store Association about their concerns with the legislation.

MO RFS: Speaker of the House Rod Jetton

2006-01-24T11:05:00.000-08:00

State Representative and Speaker of the House Rod Jetton (R-District 156)joined corn growers from across the state for a luncheon in Jefferson City today. The Speaker and I talked about legislation that has been introduced in the House of Representatives for a renewable fuels standard and the timeline of getting the legislation through the House.

Missouri Farm Bureau News: A Renewable Fuels Standard in Missouri

2006-01-23T12:54:00.000-08:00

The idea of a renewable fuels standard in the Show-Me State continues to receive good publicity as corn growers from across the state pilgram to Jefferson City tomorrow and Wednesday for the Missouri Corn Roots event at the state capitol. Denny Banister from the Missouri Farm Bureau spoke with Leslie Holloway, State and Local Government Affairs Director on Farm Bureau's daily newsline.

John Block Commentary: Protecting Our Country

2006-01-23T10:42:00.000-08:00

This week's John Block Commentary with former Agriculture Secretary Block looks at the changes the United States has had to make in security and how we must protect our country today.

Kansas Soybean Update: Gary Kilgore

2006-01-23T09:48:00.000-08:00

The Kansas Soybean Association's annual yield and value contest results are in. Gary Kilgore, K-State Agronomist and Kansas Sobyean Association board member, chairs the contest and joined me this week for our report...

Saturday Farm Feature: Andrew McCrea

2006-01-20T13:24:00.000-08:00

It's been nearly ten years since the American Countryside was first heard of the radio airwaves, making its debut on KFEQ on Saturday morning...the American Countryside has since changed into a daily feature and celebrates its sixth anniversary this spring. Andrew McCrea was my guest this morning as we visited about the broadcast, his newest book and what he has has coming up in the future...

Missouri Beef Update: Steve Taylor

2006-01-19T09:42:00.000-08:00

Steve Taylor, Executive Director of the Missouri Beef Industry Council, joined Cindy Zimmerman for this week's Missouri Beef Udpate to discuss the long-range plan of the beef industry.

Missouri Soybean Update: Warren Stemme

2006-01-18T09:43:00.000-08:00

The President of the Missouri Soybean Association is Warren Stemme from Chesterfield. On this week's Missouri Soybean Update, Warren visited with me about legislative priorities the group has for the year ahead.

Missouri Corn Update: Ashley McCarty

2006-01-17T08:42:00.000-08:00

Corn Growers from across the Show-Me State are invited to come to Jefferson City next week on Tuesday and Wednesday for the Missouri Corn Growers Corn Roots Conference and the annual meeting of the Missori Corn Growers. Ashley McCarty, Director of Membership and Policy gives us a preview for this week's Missouri Corn Update.

John Block Commentary: Challenge & Opportunity

2006-01-16T10:42:00.000-08:00

This week's John Block Commentary with former Agriculture Secretary Block provides commentary about current farm prices, policy and the challenges and opportunities for agriculture today.

Kansas Soybean Update: Kenlon Johannes

2006-01-16T09:41:00.000-08:00

The Kansas Soybean Association's annual Soybean Expo was held last week during the Topeka Farm Show. Kansas Soybean Association and Commission Executive Director Kenlon Johannes gives us a review on this week's Kansas Soybean Update...

State of the State: Reaction from Missouri Farm Bureau

2006-01-13T04:08:00.000-08:00

Missouri Governor Matt Blunt's State of the State Address contained several expectations for Missouri agriculture--from Eminent Domain legislation to the renewal of the biodiesel and ethanol tax incentives to a Renewable Fuels Standard for the State of Missouri. Missouri Farm Bureau President Charlie Kruse visited with me about the Governor's remarks and how he sees Farm Bureau and its members helping with these key decisions that affect agriculture.

American Farm Bureau Convention Wrap-Up

2006-01-12T11:08:00.000-08:00

Charlie Kruse, President of the Missouri Farm Bureau visited with me this afternoon about the 87th American Farm Bureau Federation's annual membership meeting. Charlie told me he was pleased with the outcome of this year's meeting and the proposals Missouri Farm Bureau members were able to advance forward.

Missouri's RFA: Gary Marshall

2006-01-12T10:18:00.000-08:00

Missouri Corn Growers Assocation Executive Director Gary Marshall is excited about Governor Matt Blunt's proposal for a renewable fuels standard in the state of Missouri. Gary and I visited about this opportunity for Missouri lawmakers, how the opposition may be positioning themselves and how corn producers and consumers can let their voices be heard in support of fuel containing a 10% ethanol blend in the Show-Me State.

A Renewable Fuels Standard for Missouri

2006-01-11T19:43:00.000-08:00

Missouri Governor Matt Blunt is moving forward with the proposal to include a 10 percent ethanol blend in every gallon of fuel sold for cars and trucks in the Show-Me State. In his State of the State Address to Missouri lawmakers this evening, Governor Blunt noted a Missouri Renewable Fuels Standard will spur even greater economic development in rural Missouri, providing cleaner air, lower prices and greater independence from Middle East oil supplies. The Governor asked lawmakers to "please stand with me against special interests and for our farmers, consumers, the environment and new energy supplies made right here in Missouri."

Legislation introduced in the Missouri House (HB 1270) earlier this week shows the ball is already rolling to help the Governor with his request for a renewable fuels standard in Missouri.

The Governor also announced his new budget calls for full funding of Missouri's biodiesel and ethanol incentive funds.

Missouri Soybean Update: Yield & Quality Contest

2006-01-11T09:41:00.000-08:00

John Kleiboeker, Director of Field Services for the Missouri Soybean Association says the results of their annual yield and quality contest are in and that an overwhelming number of winners from the 2005 contest are from the KFEQ listening area...

Northwest Missouri Corn Growers Meeting

2006-01-11T05:05:00.000-08:00

I'm headed to the Northwest Missouri Corn Growers Meeting in Maryville today. The annual meeting, held at the Younger Auction Gallery, brings in a great line-up of speakers and presentations with some great information producers can use.

If you're headed that way, I'll look forward to seeing you there today. If not, check back here, as I'll be posting pictures and interviews from the meeting.

Missouri Corn Update: House Bill 1270

2006-01-10T09:50:00.000-08:00

Farm Broadcaster Lanie Beetsma brings us this week's Missouri Corn Udpate from the Missouri Corn Growers Association. Lanie visited with State Representative Bob Behnen (District 2) about House Bill 1270, which would require all gasoline sold in Missouri after January 1, 2007 to be an ethanol-blend containing at least ten percent fuel ethanol.

Kansas Soybean Update: Charles Atkinson

2006-01-09T09:13:00.000-08:00

The Kansas Soybean Association and Kansas Soybean Commission are holding their annual Kansas Soybean Expo on Wednesday, January 11 at the Maner Conference Center in Topeka. The event is held annuall in conjunction with the Topeka Farm Show. Charles Atkinson, a farmer from Great Bend, serves as Secretary of the Kansas Soybean Association and is chair of the annual expo...

John Block Commentary: Cabinet Secretaries Luncheon

2006-01-09T05:01:00.000-08:00

This week's John Block Commentary with former Agriculture Secretary Block tells of the annual Cabinet Secretaries Luncheon in December, where 40 current and past cabinet members attended. Block serves as chair of the event.

Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns

2006-01-07T04:20:00.000-08:00

Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns joined me on the phone to look back at his first year in office at the US Department of Agriculture. In this interview, the Secretary shares his perspective of the office of Secretary compared to a year ago, discusses the re-opening of foreign markets to US beef following the single case of BSE in America in 2003, President Bush's involvement in agriculture trade issues, the 2005 Farm Bill Forums and an outlook for the new year.

Kansas Farm Bureau Weekend: January 7

2006-01-07T03:51:00.000-08:00

Kansas Farm Bureau members and others from across the country are headed to Nashville for the 87th Annual American Farm Bureau Convention; members give their opinions on the importance of the national meeting; eminent domain in Kansas legislature; business plans for the 2006 crop and Insight from John Schlageck.

Missouri Beef Update: Alane Lidolf

2006-01-05T09:53:00.000-08:00

On this week's Missouri Beef Industry Council report, Consumer Information Director Alane Lidolf talks to Cindy Zimmerman about the upcoming Show-Me Shape Up Program. MBIC is helping to sponsor the shape up program which begins next week.

Missouri Farm Bureau News

2006-01-05T03:50:00.000-08:00

I was encouraged to hear Denny Banister from the Missouri Farm Bureau with his daily newsline featuring Missouri Governor Matt Blunt. On the newsline, Governor Blunt talks about some hopes he has for lawmakers during this session of the legislature as they head back to work this week. One of the priorities is a 10 percent requirement that all gasoline in the Show-Me State contains ethanol. Good job, Governor Blunt!

St. Joe Stockyards Customer Appreciation Day

2006-01-04T12:35:00.000-08:00

A good crowd was on hand for the weekly stocker-feeder cattle auction at the St. Joe Stockyards today. Over 4500 cattle sold and several people turned out for the customer appreciation luncheon. Special thanks to Greg, Mark and the whole crew at the Stockyards for making us feel welcome and having the right set-up to easily broadcast from the sale!

Missouri Soybean Update: District Meetings

2006-01-04T09:46:00.000-08:00

On this week's Missouri Soybean Update, John Kleiboeker, Director of Field Services for the Missouri Soybean Association says winter meetings with soybean growers are coming up quickly...

Topeka Farm Show

2006-01-04T09:27:00.000-08:00

The annual Topeka Farm Show is next week at the Kansas Expocentre in Topeka. Show Manager Steve Guenther gave me a preview...

Missouri Corn Update: Terry Hilgedick

2006-01-03T09:40:00.000-08:00

Terry Hilgedick, President of the Missouri Corn Growers Association from Hartsburg, Missouri talked with me on this week's Missouri Corn Update about the priorities the Missouri Corn Growers Association has for the new year...

Kansas Soybean Update: Dennis Hupe

2006-01-02T09:44:00.000-08:00

The Kansas Soybean Association and Kansas Soybean Commission have a new 2006 Dodge pickup they're using to promote Biodiesel across the state. Dennis Hupe, Director of Field Services joined me for this week's interview...

Kansas Soybean Update: No Till on the Plains

2005-12-22T09:42:00.000-08:00

The 10th No-Till on the Plains Winter Conference is coming up January 30 and 31st in Salina, Kansas. Brian Lindley from No-Till on the Plains joined me for this week's Kansas Soybean Update, a service of the Kansas Soybean Association and Kansas Soybean Commission.

Missouri Soybean Update: December 21

2005-12-21T09:40:00.000-08:00

Alex Stemme, Director of Identity-Preserved Products at the Missouri Soyean Association talked with me this week about the Missouri FFA Leadership Fund.
(Editor's Note: Stemme himself served as a State FFA Officer)

Missouri Corn Update: December 20

2005-12-20T09:40:00.000-08:00

This week's Missouri Corn Update checks in with Missouri Corn Growers Association Director of Communication, Becky Grisham. Becky and I discussed the Missouri Corn Growers Scholarship program, its history, and who is eligible to apply.

WTO: Gerald Tumbleson (Sunday night)

2005-12-18T19:40:00.000-08:00

Gerald Tumbleson, President of the National Corn Growers Association. Tumbleson says while it may appear that this week's trade negotiations did move slow, he's satisfied that the process continues to move in the right direction.

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WTO: Bob Metz

2005-12-18T19:35:00.000-08:00

American Soybean Association President Bob Metz is here in Hong Kong for the negotiations. Was it worth the time for him to be here this week? He answered that and other questions in this interview Sunday evening.

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WTO: Bob Stallman (Sunday night)

2005-12-18T19:29:00.000-08:00

Sunday night...and we're still waiting to hear what may be some sort of development from this set of negotiations in Hong Kong. American Farm Bureau President Bob Stallman sat down with me earlier tonight to talk about what has happened this week for agriculture during negotiations.

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What's Happens Next for US Beef Trade in Asia?

2005-12-18T18:54:00.000-08:00

On Monday (December 12), after nearly two years of waiting on the Japanese to re-open their market to United States Beef, Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns announced that US Beef would soon be returning to the Japanese marketplace. Once the largest market for US Beef in terms of total dollars, the US is not expected to recapture more than 20% of what once existed in trade...it's not because of the Japanese trust of US Beef, but rather because of their doubts on beef in general. NCBA Chief Economist Greg Doud spoke with me in Hong Kong about what happens next for US Beef in other Asian nations.

WTO: Tom Hammer

2005-12-17T08:56:00.000-08:00

Tom Hammer with the National Oilseed Processors Association isn't very confident that these WTO negotiations were supposed to succeed...and he's not all that confident that the US Congress will extend Trade Promotion Authority to the President when it expires in 2007, despite the track record of declines in trade, especially for agriculture.

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WTO: Joe O'Mara

2005-12-17T08:34:00.000-08:00

Joe O'Mara, former Chief Ag Trade Negotiator at the US Department of Agriculture, sat down with me to talk about his experiences at WTO negotiations for our Saturday Morning Farm Feature. (This interview runs about 12:00, but has a lot of good background information.)

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WTO: Greg Doud

2005-12-17T06:17:00.000-08:00

The National Cattlemens Beef Association Chief Economist Greg Doud told me that these trade negotiations are important to beef producers in the United States and that we're talking more than just trade deals here...we're also talking about the way countries are treated when it comes to trade issues like BSE.

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WTO: Bill Bryant

2005-12-17T06:03:00.000-08:00

A lot of the attention of these trade talks centers around the crops most of us are familiar with, corn and soybeans. But the "other" crops are just as important in trade negotiations. Bill Bryant, representing the American Potato Trade Alliance , spoke to me about the importance of these talks for fruit and vegetable producers.

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WTO: Shannon Herzfeld

2005-12-17T05:45:00.000-08:00

Food Aid was one of the debates between several of the nations here in Hong Kong. Shannon Herzfeld with ADM, here representing the North American Millers Association, spoke with me about the US position on food aid.

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WTO: Jay Vroom

2005-12-17T05:23:00.000-08:00

Crop Protection makers are also interested in what comes out of these trade negotiations...not only in the agriculture arena, but also in the area of industrial trade. CropLife America's Jay Vroom visited with me...

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WTO: Jack Wilkinson

2005-12-16T13:35:00.000-08:00

Canadian Farmer and President of the International Federation of Agricultural Producers Jack Wilkinson visited with me in Hong Kong...

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WTO: Steve Censky (Part 1)

2005-12-16T13:25:00.000-08:00

The Executive Director of the American Soybean Association, Steve Censky, gave me an overview of what the American Soybean Association were looking for this week in Hong Kong.

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A Club Sandwich for Lunch at the Star Ferry Pier

2005-12-16T13:15:00.000-08:00

Now I know what a club sandwich is supposed to look like...a little ham, turkey and roast beef, all combined together on toasted bread with some lettuce and tomato. In Hong Kong, though, it's not quite that way.

I think what I had on my sandwich was a combination of ham, tomato and egg...and they cut the crust off of the bread. So while I didn't get the classic three meat combo, it was still a tasty sandwich; I'd try it again.

Of all the things I didn't take a picture of, this was one of them...and I can't track down an accurate picture on-line of what the sandwich looked like!

WTO: Bob Stallman

2005-12-16T08:22:00.000-08:00

American Farm Bureau Federation President Bob Stallman joined us in Hong Kong for the WTO mid-week. Stallman visited with me about Farm Bureau's position on trade issues...

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WTO: Steve Censky (Part 2)

2005-12-16T08:12:00.000-08:00

Fourteen Agriculture Commodity Groups and Associations sent letters this week to Bush Administration Officials, Capitol Hill and US farmers and ranchers asking WTO negotiatiors to focus on the issue of market access during trade negotiations. Steve Censky, Executive Director of the American Soybean Association, visited with me about the importance of this issue.

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The Comfort of Food from Home

2005-12-15T21:28:00.000-08:00

So here it is, Wednesday night in Hong Kong...Mike spent the evening with some folks from the sugar industry and I've skipped supper, trying to do some catch-up on this site and editing some other stories. We're supposed to be on air with Mike Adams at AgriTalk after the 10:30 market update (that's 12:30am Hong Kong time), so between the combination of being hungy and justifying that I'm going to be up for at least a couple of more hours, I head down the street to find something familiar to eat.

Upon arrival to this small space McDonald's is occupying, I realize I am the only caucasian there. This must cause some level of anxiety, as I see a lot of glances coming my way and the conversations begin to diminish. I wonder if any of the workers will be able to understand my midwestern English. I order a Big Mac by number and decide to venture out of the comfort zone and try a spicey chicken sandwich also...The Big Mac (not surprisingly), tastes much like the ones at home, with the only noticeable difference being the flavor of the lettuce. The chicken sandwich? A little different...it'll never be a replacement for my favorite, the McRib!

LINK: McDonald's Hong Kong

WTO: USTR Press Briefing

2005-12-15T15:11:00.000-08:00

The highlight of the day for myself had to be the afternoon press briefing with US Trade Representative Rob Portman. In "Theatre 1" of the WTO news area, Portman held an afternoon briefing with reporters. I was fortunate enough to be one of those who asked the Ambassador a question about the WTO negotiations.

Hear my report with Ambassador Portman.

Fellow farm broadcater Mike Hergert also covered the Ambassador this afternoon and files this report.