A Weekly Update from the Red River Farm Network
Monday, October 02, 2023
Last-Minute Stopgap Spending Bill Passes – Congress ended a chaotic week with a surprising weekend vote on a short-term spending bill. The House passed the continuing resolution with a vote of 335-to-91 with 90 Republicans and one Democrat voting against it. The same bill passed the Senate with an 88-to-nine vote Saturday night. President Biden signed it into law before the fiscal year ended at midnight, avoiding a government shutdown. For agriculture, that means next week’s USDA supply/demand report will be released as scheduled and thousands of USDA employees are still on the job.
Three Spending Bills Pass, Ag Approps Does Not – Congress has rejected an appropriations bill that would have funded agriculture, rural development and the Food and Drug Administration. The vote was 237 against passage and 191 for the bill. All of the Democrats voted against the bill. They were joined by 27 Republicans who opposed language dealing with mail access to an abortion pill. There was an effort to pass an amendment to remove that provision from the bill, but it was ruled out of order. Funding for the State Department, Defense Department and Homeland Security Department passed late Thursday night. The agriculture bill was the final vote of the night.
Amendments Offered in Ag Appropriations Debate – The full House worked until the early hours of Wednesday morning on the agriculture appropriations bill. A variety of issues were debated, ranging from climate change to animal identification. Indiana Republican Victoria Spartz introduced an amendment demanding more transparency in the mandatory commodity checkoff programs. Kentucky Congressman Thomas Massie said the checkoff programs may have begun with good intentions, “but, it is pretty well known in Washington, D.C. that this program has gone rotten and no longer services farmers.” House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson opposed to the amendment. Thompson said this issue should not be addressed in the appropriations process. “I’m a strong supporter of research and promotion programs and will wholeheartedly advocate for their continued existance,” said Thompson. “I believe any debate surrounding the integrity of these programs should be reserved for farm bill deliberations.”
Checkoff Amendment Defeated – A large group of livestock, crop and forestry groups sent a letter to House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in opposition to Indiana Representative Spartz’s anti-checkoff amendment. The amendment was ultimately defeated. National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Senior Director of Government Affairs Tanner Beymer said there was vigorous debate over the amendment, but there was a lot of opposition. “The checkoff program has strong bipartisan support. The letter we sent was signed by 31 national ag organizations and over 100 state organizations.”
Attack on Sugar Avoided – Pennsylvania Congressman Scott Perry had an amendment prepared that would have eliminated the sugar loan program for sugarbeets and sugar cane. The sugar industry responded with a full-court press lobbying effort and the amendment was ultimately not brought up during the floor debate. “Typically, these kinds of amendments do not get much support, but they feel they have to put them forward and wave the flag for constituents back home,” said Luther Markwart, executive vice president, American Sugarbeet Growers Association.
Farm Bill Expires – While a government shutdown was averted, the farm bill expired over the weekend. Agriculture committee leadership has said the farm bill will likely be wrapped up in December. That timeline may be complicated by the next debate on government funding. The new stopgap spending measure is in place until November 17, setting up another battle over budget cuts.
‘Cautiously Optimistic’ for Farm Bill Movement – The farm bill expired with the end of the fiscal year. National Association of Wheat Growers Vice President of Policy and Communications Jake Westlin said the date is significant, but it’s more important to get the legislation done before the end of the year. “There are some programs that would be impacted if there isn’t a farm bill in place before the end of the year, you can get into some sticky areas.”
Crop Insurance Critics Seek Change – Oregon Congressman Earl Blumenauer and South Carolina Congressman Ralph Norman have introduced a bill requiring USDA to publicly disclose the names of the farmers receiving crop insurance payments and the amount received. If this bill passed, crop insurance payments would max out at $125,000 per year and coverage would be denied for farmers with more than $250,000 in annual adjusted gross income. The harvest price option would also go away if this proposal was approved.
Foreign Farmland Purchases Under Scrutiny – Foreign ownership of U.S. farmland is being described as a threat to national security. At a Senate Agriculture Committee hearing, South Dakota Senator John Thune said USDA should have a larger role in overseeing foreign ownership of farmland. Earlier in the week, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said that is a difficult job. “Every county has their county recorder and on any given day somebody may walk into that recorder’s office and file a deed and there’s no way of knowing precisely whether or not that is a Chinese purchaser,” said Vilsack. “We would need to work on how we might be able to collect the information and be able to analyze that information in a timely way.” After the hearing, Ranking Member John Boozman said the Agriculture Department should be represented on the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, especially when foreign companies are buying land near military bases. That is a reference to the proposed Fufeng corn processing project in Grand Forks.
Weather Worries – All eyes are on South American weather. Nutrien Ag Solutions Senior Science Fellow Eric Snodgrass says at least two inches of rain is needed before planting can begin. “The long-range forecast says they should have enough moisture to get it in the ground.” For the U.S. Snodgrass is worried about transportation on the Mississippi River. “It’s going to take a lot of water to fill those rivers back up and keep things moving for fall application.” Snodgrass was one of the featured speakers at the North Dakota Bankers Association Ag Credit Conference.
Fewer, But Bigger Corn Kernels – There are reports of larger-than-normal corn kernel size this fall. NDSU Extension Agronomist Clair Keene said larger kernel size doesn’t necessarily mean more yield. “If your corn was drought stressed during the pollination and grain fill period, you probably have fewer kernels on the cob which leaves those left more space to get bigger.” On the flip side, Keene said bigger kernels could mean a higher test weight.
Harvest Moves From One Crop to the Next – Hendrum, Minnesota farmer Andrew Jossund was surprised with the bushels seen during the small grain harvest, but the soybean results very. “Some we’ve been real happy with and some it probably got a little dry late in the season and just didn’t have a chance to put on any more pods.” Sugarbeets were able to find good moisture. The main harvest has been postponed due to high temperatures, but pre-pile continues. “Once we’re done with beets we’ll roll right on into corn. It looks like it’s going to dry down pretty nice here.”
Pioneer Agronomy Update – In this week’s Pioneer Agronomy Report, Field Agronomist Kevin Sinner outlines the importance of prioritizing the corn fields to minimize harvestability issues.
Corn and Soybean Harvest in East Grand Forks – The corn crop has been variable for East Grand Forks, Minnesota farmer Matthew Krueger. “We’re seeing yield swings of almost 50 to 200 which is a pretty big range that we normally wouldn’t see.” There have been stand issues on certain hybrids during dry years prompting a back-and-forth between corn and soybean harvest. “Thankfully from a combine standpoint it’s pretty simple.” Moisture is a little high on both corn and beans. Krueger says recent rains will help recharge the soil and even out the last of their soybean crop.
Monango Soybean Crop Recovers Dry Start – Monango, North Dakota farmer Mark Wagner is just starting his soybean harvest and the crop looks promising. “We had some late emergence that never came up until we got rain at the end of June, but they seem to have caught up.” Corn is coming off the field for silage. “We have noticed the it’s been really up and down due to the dry spells we got through the year, but it looks like we’re going to have an average to above average corn crop.”
Hurry Up and Wait – Columbia Grain grain merchandizer Tyler Stegman says harvest is in a hurry-up-and-wait mode. “Guys are anxious to go, but holding off from what I can tell.” Stegman has not seen much corn at his location in Arvilla, North Dakota yet. “The corn that we have seen has been home-dried.”
Temps Keep Beet Harvest at Bay – The start of American Crystal Sugar Company’s full harvest campaign is uncertain at this point. General Agronomist Joe Hastings expects root temperatures to remain too warm. “Temperature is so important when we start piling these beets for long-term storage.” Pre-pile harvest will continue until root temperatures cool down. “We’re going to keep monitoring temps as it warms up this week when it would be our usual harvest time.”
Rain Gives Minn-Dak Beet Crop a Boost – Minn-Dak Farmers Cooperative Vice President of Agriculture Mike Metzger says the recent moisture was welcomed. The quality of this year’s crop appears to be excellent with Minn-Dak estimating a 26.5-ton crop. “Hopefully, this rain will solidify that number, but we need to get into main harvest and see what we have by the tail.”
Sugar Content Improves – Southern Minnesota Beet Sugar Coop Vice President of Agriculture Todd Geselius says the sugarbeet crop is looking good. “We have decent tons, but that definitely slowed down in late-August and September, but that started pumping up the sugar.” Currently, the crop is estimated in the low 30-ton per acre range.
Harvest Progress Made in Ada, Minnesota Area – The sugarbeet pre-pile harvest continues for Rebecca Sip near Ada, Minnesota. The soybean crop has been uneven. “When you’re combining, there’s some green in with the soybeans, but the soybeans themselves can be at like ten percent moisture.” Corn harvest has started on drier fields. Moisture is averaging around 17-to-18 percent.
Register for NCI Market Update Webinar – The Northern Crops Institute is hosting a Market Update: Weather Edition webinar Wednesday at 8 AM. This webinar will feature Daryl Ritchison, director, North Dakota Agricultural Weather Network, who will be presenting on the current weather trends and predictions for both the region and the world. This webinar series focuses on providing new market insights. For more information or to register, go online.
Good Quality Spuds in Red River Valley – Northland Potato Growers Association President Donavon Johnson credits the recent rains for a good harvest season this far. “We eat with our eyes first so you don’t want those potatoes dinged up.” According to Johnson, potato harvest is approaching 75 percent complete. At this point, Johnson says it is a satisfying potato crop.
Great Conditions for Potato Harvest – According to Karlstad, Minnesota farmer Justin Dagen, harvest has been stop-and-go with frequent rains. Rain totals from May through August was below normal, but crops have done well. “Our farm received approximately 55 percent of normal precipitation, but it came at a great time.” Potato harvest has been underway for about a month and conditions are great. Dagen is grateful for how the potato crop is turning out nationally. “We’ve had a couple of years of shortages and this year I think it’s going to be a good quality and quantity crop so consumers will have a great choice and get a good value.”
Canola Minute – In this week’s Canola Minute, Northern Canola Growers Association board member Tim Mickelson talks about the difficult canola harvest.
A Slow Grind – The harvest in the Bottineau, North Dakota area has been a slow grind. Dan Marquardt says the weather is not allowing the canola crop to dry down. “We’ve been getting a lot of fog and wet mornings.” Yields have been dependent on the summer rains. “I’ve been hearing yields are ranging in that 2,000-3,000 pounds.”
Nuseed’s Trygg Olson: Canola & Sunflower Update – The canola harvest is winding down. Yield results vary widely due to weather conditions. Nuseed Field Sales Manager Trygg Olson, who is based in Carrington, says sunflowers are being desiccated. “The nice part about sunflowers is they’re a little more drought-tolerant, drought-hearty crops so even in dry weather, they do usually perform very well.” At a minimum, Olson expects 2024 canola and sunflower acreage to maintain current levels. “The canola is going to be pretty much normal with the contracts decent at this point. I haven’t seen any new crop ’24 sunflower contracts yet or heard pricing yet and that’ll be part of the driver.” Olson sees demand influenced by global factors, such as the ongoing Russian-Ukraine war.
A Buggy Report – NDSU Extension Entomologist Janet Knodel identified grasshoppers as the biggest pest problem in wheat, barley and soybeans. “We expected as much with the drought last year; grasshoppers were at economic (treatment) levels more so in the central and western areas of the state.” Knodel noted aphids were seen in pockets of the state, but estimates less than 20 percent of fields had them.
Talking Trade in Mexico – South Dakota Lieutenant Governor Larry Rhoden and Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources Secretary Hunter Roberts were in Mexico this past week for a trade mission. Mexico is South Dakota’s second-largest trade partner.
SD Corn Comments – In this week’s edition of South Dakota Corn Comments, Stockyards Ag Experience Executive Director Abby Bischoff talks about Harvest Night coming up on October 19th.
Promoting Trade Opportunities in Chile – North Dakota Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring was part of a USDA trade delegation in Chile this past week. In a call from Santiago, USDA Undersecretary Alexis Taylor said there are opportunities to export meat, dairy products and grain. Goehring added soybean meal and dry edible beans to that list.
Mercosur Bloc and Vietnam Consider Trade Deal – Vietnam is reportedly interested in securing a trade deal with the Mercosur bloc which includes Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay. This follows an attempt by the Mercosur nations to finalize a trade agreement with the European Union. Work has been underway on that deal since 2019, but it has stalled over environmental concerns.
Dry Bean Scene – Minnesota Dry Bean Research and Promotion Council Chair Mark Dombeck talks about a recent trade trip to Japan on this week’s Dry Bean Scene. The Dry Bean Scene is sponsored by the Northarvest Bean Growers Association, Johnstown Bean Company, Sharpen Fungicide from BASF, SRS Commodities and Heads Up Plant Protectants.
Profit Margins Tighten – Looking ahead, Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City Senior Vice President Nate Kauffman sees farm profit margins tightening. This scenario is happening after a time of strong profitability. “They’re in a good position to be able to withstand some of the pressures.” Kauffman says the Fed is looking for signs that inflation is nearing its target of two percent before ending interest rate increases. “Increases in rates are a challenge for a lot of businesses that need to contend with financing costs.” Kaufman addressed the North Dakota Bankers Association Ag Credit Conference.
Farmland Prices are ‘Patsy Cline Crazy’ – The economy, interest rates and input costs were part of the conversation at last week’s Ag Credit Conference in Bismarck. One of the speakers, Virginia Tech Professor Emeritus Dr. David Kohl said agriculture is experiencing what he calls ‘a triple play’. “For the first time since the early 1980’s, farmers are having to manage prices, inflated costs and interest rates all at the same time.” In Kohl’s view, farmland prices have been rising due to baby boomers using land as an investment. “It’s Patsy Cline crazy. I tell people we will not have another farm crisis unless farmland values collapse.”
What’s Hot, What’s Not in the Markets – “The crude oil market and the dollar seem to have the most strength of all the commodities we look at,” said Randy Martinson, president, Martinson Ag Risk Management. A warm, dry forecast in the U.S. and rain in the outlook for South America is bearish for soybeans. What’s Hot, What’s Not in the Markets can be found online.
Fall Equipment Market Is Hot – With a better-than-expected crop, Steffes Group President Scott Steffes is looking for farm equipment prices to remain strong this fall. “We still have a shortage of equipment so what’s going to be out there is going to be pretty well sought after.” The pattern for the best time to sell equipment is shifting. “The fall markets for the last several years have been the stronger market and it always used to be spring.” Steffes spoke at the North Dakota Bankers Association Ag Credit Conference.
Barge Traffic Hampered by Low Water Levels – Due to low water levels on the lower Mississippi River, new draft and tow-size restrictions have been implemented for barge traffic. American Commercial Barge Line is reporting parts of the river channel are down to nine feet. Delays of 48-to-72 hours can be expected due to the low water.
Peterson Farms Seed: IDC Research – Peterson Farms Seed Soybean and Corn Product Manager Dennis Schultze sees IDC as one of the biggest challenges in racing soybeans in this region. “The number one way to combat it is through soybean genetics.” In this update, Schultze outlines the importance of research.
Storing Soybeans is a Challenge – When you start harvesting, NDSU Extension Ag Engineer Ken Hellevang says farmers need to be aware there might be maturity issues in the soybean crop. Another big challenge is the rapid change in moisture content. “Damage to the beans goes up as the moisture content decreases, so do whatever you can to make sure you’re harvesting as close to 13 percent as possible.”
Corn Drying Issue Caused By Drought – Red River Sales and Agronomy Pioneer sales agronomist Leah Johnson says corn coming off the field near Elbow Lake, Minnesota is just under 20 percent moisture. While corn grain quality looks great, there could be a challenge drying it down. “Because of the stress on those kernels they’re just a little harder texture. We’ll see as harvest progresses the next couple weeks but it seems like it might take a little more fuel to dry corn.” Yields have been very spotty according to Johnson. Some townships in Johnson’s area have only received three to four inches of rain this growing season.
Anhydrous Values Push Higher, Other Fertilizer Prices Decline – Most retail fertilizer prices are dropping with one major exception. During the third week of September, the average retail price for anhydrous was $763 per ton. That’s 21 percent higher than a month ago. Three fertilizer categories had a significant price decline with 10-34-0 down 14 percent from a month ago. The weekly report from DTN said potash values are down ten percent and DAP is down six percent.
Sunflowers Enter Seasonal Slide – Sunflower prices continue to move a little lower. National Sunflower Association Executive Director John Sandbakken describes it as a seasonal slide. ‘We’re transitioning into our 2023-2024 market year. As we get closer to harvest, those premiums aren’t there.” The carryover from last year’s crop is also weighing on prices.
ERP Payments Finally On The Way – The USDA announced that it will begin issuing Emergency Relief Program payments soon. Minnesota Soybean Growers Association President Bob Worth explains that some farmers had issues with how Phase 2 eligibility was determined. “Those payments are strictly based on your financials from your tax returns and some farmers were quite upset about having to show them.” Worth said farmers have also expressed concerns about how long the programs have taken to roll out. “There’s a lot of young farmers who could have used this money a year ago or two years ago. We have to try to figure out a way to make it better.”
Closing Out Emergency Livestock Relief Programs – North Dakota FSA Executive Director Marcy Svenningsen explains that Emergency Relief Programs are closing out for livestock producers. In 2021 North Dakota livestock producers received $68 million in Emergency Livestock Relief Program payments. “In 2021, the entire state was in drought.” This final round will be 20 percent of payments already received.
Pilot Insurance Program Available for Cow-Calf Sector – USDA has announced a new insurance option for cow-calf producers in four states. Weaned Calf Risk Protection offers Actual Production History coverage to ensure revenue from spring calving. This program will be available in South Dakota, Colorado, Nebraska and Texas for the 2024 crop year. Coverage levels between 50 percent and 85 percent will be available along with catastrophic coverage.
Cow-Calf’s Turn to Take Profits – Bagley Livestock Exchange co-owner Billy Bushelle says some producers are considering selling calves straight from the cow this fall to take advantage of high prices sooner. Buyers are still willing to pay a premium for calves that have been weaned and vaccinated. Bushelle suggests that unless something happened on the production end or you are short of feed, stick to your weaning and vaccination protocol. “Don’t sell yourself short just because you’re afraid things are going to go downhill.” Bushelle also says cow-calf operators have a better opportunity to rebuild herds if they intend to keep replacement heifers from their own herd this year. “Their steer calves will make a bigger portion of all their expenses.” Listen to the full interview with Billy Bushelle here.
MN Beef Update – Minnesota Beef Council CEO Kelly Schmidt talks about a recent trade trip to South Korea and Japan in this week’s Minnesota Beef Update.
Dairy-Beef Cross Demand Fresh Thinking – A different mindset is required for dairy farmers who want to feed dairy-beef crossbred calves. Purina Animal Nutrition Director of Nutrition Services Tom Earleywine says these calves need to be handled differently from purebred dairy calves. “There’s been years and years of history on the dairy side of the business where the Holstein bull calf was not a high-value calf and as a result, we’ve built systems to raise a low-cost calf.” The dairy-beef cross is now more valuable and deserves more investment. “If you don’t take advantage of that hybrid vigor because you don’t provide enough nutrition, you’re not going to get much of a gain out of that feed efficiency but if you provide enough nutrition to allow them to efficiently gain you can actually reduce your cost per pound by feeding them more.” A traditional dairy calf may be fed two quarts of milk replacer twice a day, while the young dairy-beef cross would require three quarts. Earleywine will participate in this week’s World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisconsin.
DMC Payment Triggered Again – The August milk margin triggered the eighth consecutive payment for dairy farmers with Dairy Margin Coverage for the 2023 program year. The August income over feed margin is $6.46 per hundredweight with DMC payments expected to total $120 million
Market Hog Numbers Higher Than Expected by the Trade – As of September 1, there were 74.3 million hogs and pigs in the United States. That’s up slightly from last year and up two percent from the June report. The breeding herd inventory is at just over six million head, down one percent from one year ago. Swine producers weaned an average of 11.6 pigs per litter this past summer, an all-time record. Iowa is the largest pork production state. Minnesota is ranked second and North Carolina is third.
This is National 4-H Week – It may be showing a steer at state fair, leading a local club meeting or taking an active role in a community project, 4-H is all about building life skills. AgCountry Farm Credit Services, Associated Milk Producers, Incorporated and it’s Dinner Bell Creamery joins with the Red River Farm Network is saluting 4-H families throughout the region. More than 6 million young people nationwide are inspiring us all ‘to make the best better.’
Building Leadership Skills – Madison Pesek, Fergus Falls, serves as a 4-H state ambassador. By taking advantage of leadership opportunities, Pesek has gained skills she hopes to use some day as an ag educator. “I’ve learned to communicate well with others through camps I go to each year.” She plans to be a camp counselor for a junior leadership workshop this year.
4-H Ag Ambassadors Advocate for Agriculture – Kari Matejka is serving her second year as a state 4-H ag ambassador “We get to advocate for agriculture especially to youth so the future is secure for agriculture in Minnesota.” Matejka, who is from Martin County, has learned public speaking skills that will help her in college and future career. “Meeting new people is sometimes hard for me, but this program has really pushed me out of my comfort zone.”
Pipeline Project Highlighted at Local Farmers Union Meeting – McIntosh County Farmers Union held its annual meeting in Ashley, North Dakota and the proposed carbon pipeline was part of the discussion. President Brandon Meidinger, who is a sixth-generation farmer, described the pipeline as very disruptive to agricultural practices. “You can’t farm the land and it messes it up for a number of years. I also don’t see the four-foot depth as being deep enough for the pipeline.”
Being First is a Hurdle for Carbon Pipeline Projects – The proposed carbon pipelines are receiving pushback from some groups as they work to secure permitting in the Midwest. American Carbon Alliance CEO Tom Buis says it can be difficult to do something that’s never been done before. “There’s people that are afraid of change, but there’s also critics out there who don’t want to see you succeed.” Each state has different rules and guidelines for pipelines. “All the pipeline companies are certainly trying to work with those regulators to make sure they meet those goals.” Buis says pipelines would provide a safe way to transport carbon for sequestration.
Federal Grant Awarded for Railroad Improvements – The North Dakota congressional delegation has announced a $12 million federal grant for an improved rail line to serve the new soybean crush plant at Casselton. The money is going to the Red River Valley and Western Railroad Company for track improvements. Thanks to the crush plant, there will be more than 10,000 new rail carloads moving through the area each year.
Corn Matters – Minnesota Corn Research and Promotion Council Chair Gary Prescher talks about research grant applications opening up. Hear more in the latest Corn Matters, brought to you by the Minnesota Corn Growers Association.
Climate-Smart Practices Rewarded – USDA is making more than $3 billion available for voluntary conservation programs and climate-smart practices. This money comes from the Inflation Reduction Act. USDA has opened the enrollment period, but said technical assistance would not be immediately available if there is a government shutdown.
Canada Offers Citizenship for Skilled Ag Talent – Canada’s immigration policy has been changed to ease the labor shortage. People within specific career categories are given priority and now have a streamlined path to permanent residence. The first round of invitations is going out to skilled people with agriculture and food experience. Canadian Agriculture Minister Lawrence MacAulay said this is a tool that attracts workers with the skills needed for a world-class agricultural sector.
Today is MP Deadline – Today is the final day for farmers to purchase margin protection insurance for 2024. With the turn of the calendar to October, harvest prices for crop insurance will start setting averages today. That will continue through the end of the month.
Co-ops Build Economic Power – National Co-op Month is celebrated during the month of October. This is a time to recognize cooperative businesses as an effective way to build an economy that benefits everyone. Cooperatives are a proven and trusted way to do business. This October Co-op Month message is sponsored by the North Dakota Farmers Union, Associated Milk Producers Incorporated and its Dinner Bell Creamery.
$2 Billion Pricetag for AGCO-Trimble JV – AGCO is paying Trimble $2 billion for an 85 percent stake in the company. The Manitoba-based autonomous company, JCA Technologies, which was acquired by AGCO last year will also be part of the joint venture. The precision agriculture technologies will be available in AGCO brands, including Challenger, Massey, Fendt and Precision Planting. AGCO and Trimble plan to close on this deal in early 2024.
Ag Industry Commits to New Cloud-Based Network – Farm equipment companies, including John Deere, Case IH and Trimble, have given their commitment to develop a new cloud-based network to improve cross-manufacturer compatibility. The Agricultural Industry Electronics Foundation will provide a framework to simplify this process and create an industry-wide solution for sharing data through this network.
Agri Stats Faces Antitrust Allegations – The Justice Department has filed an antitrust lawsuit against an Indiana data collection firm called Agri Stats. The DOJ claims Agri Stats shared competitive information with competing meatpackers. With this data, the meatpackers reportedly reduced their slaughter numbers and increased the prices paid by consumers. This case is being heard at the federal court in Minneapolis.
IP Theft Lawsuit Filed – Corteva has filed a lawsuit against Inari Agriculture. The lawsuit claims Inari used a third-party agent to secure.protected Corteva seed genetics, illegally exported the seed out of the United States, made slight genetic modifications to the biotech traits and are seeking U.S. patents for the modified traits. In the complaint, Corteva said it wants to “prevent Inari from continuing its brazen efforts to steal Corteva’s groundbreaking work.” Inari is based in Cambridge, Massachusetts and as a company that leverages “AI and gene editing technology to meet the food system needs of the future.”
AURI Update – The Agricultural Utilization Research Institute is hosting a three-part webinar series on October 11th. Learn more in this AURI Update.
ADM & Syngenta Sign MOU – Archer Daniels Midland and Syngenta have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on scaling research and commercialization of low carbon-intensity next-generation oilseeds, such as camelina. This effort is designed to meet the demand for biofuels and other sustainably-sourced products.
GPI Creates New Online Carbon Management Tool – Minneapolis-based Great Plains Institute has created the first of its kind tool that provides social, environmental, legal and community data that can be used to determine sites for carbon management projects. Louisiana is the first state where this interactive mapping tool is available, but GPI plans to develop similar systems for other states.
Select Sires and STgen to Create New Company – Select Sires and Inguran, which does business as STgen, have signed a letter of intent to combine their production, research and development programs into a new company. The sales and service network developed by both companies will continue to operate independently. The new company is expected to gain cost efficiency with more technological advancements.
New GOP Chief Counsel for Senate Ag Committee – Senate Agriculture Committee Ranking Member John Boozman has named Caleb Crosswhite as the minority chief counsel for the committee. Most recently, Crosswhite was the deputy chief counsel for House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glen ‘GT’ Thompson. Crosswhite served on the House Agriculture Committee staff from 2011-to-2019.
USFRA Names New CEO – Kevin Burkum has been selected as the new CEO for the U.S. Farmers and Ranchers in Action. Most recently, Burkum was the chief communications officer for Global Dairy Platform. USFRA is an alliance of farm groups and agricultural stakeholders to promote sustainable U.s. food systems. USFRA parted ways with former CEO Erin Fitzgerald in April.
Pivot Bio Expands Leadership Team – Pivot Bio has named Debra Frimerman as its chief business development officer and Wendy Watkins as its chief communications officer. Most recently, Frimerman was general counsel, corporate secretary and chief compliance officer for Calyxt. Before joining Pivot Bio, Watkins was a senior vice president and chief communications officer for Hormel Foods.
Ten Acre Adds Creative, Account and Production Talent – Ten Acre Marketing has announced three new hires. Terri Spencer has joined the firm as the vice president of creative services. Spencer is based in California and has 20 years of creative experience. Sara Hewitt is Ten Acre Marketing’s new senior account manager. Hewitt owns and operates a direct-to-consumer farm operation in southern Minnesota and previously worked for Ag Management Solutions. Denise Huggins is the company’s new production manager. Huggins has more than 20 years of production experience and will be responsible for interfacing with all internal teams and maintaining vendor relationships. Ten Acre Marketing is based in Grand Forks and has staff in six states.
AEM Names 2023 Champions of the Industry – The Association of Equipment Manufacturers has honored four lawmakers, including South Dakota Senator John Thune, with its AEM Champion of the Industry Award. The award recognizes members of Congress for their support of the equipment manufacturing industry. This is only the third time the award has been presented in the organization’s 125-year history.
Haag Passes the NCGA Gavel to Wolle – Tom Haag’s term as president of the National Corn Growers Association came to an end over the weekend. Haag describes the work done on the Mexico GMO corn ban has been one of the biggest issues during his time as president. This leadership change is historic as both Haag and the new NCGA president, Harold Wolle, farm in Minnesota. “This is the first time at NCGA that you have two individuals from the same state back-to-back as president,” said Haag. “Hopefully, he (Wolle) will see the farm bill passed during his term.”
UM Extension Honors for Thiesse – The University of Minnesota Extension has presented its Distinguished Friendship of Extension Dean’s Award to Kent Thiesse. Thiesse is a senior vice president and farm management analyst for MinnStar Bank in Lake Crystal, Minnesota. Thiesse spent 28 years as an Extension Educator for the University of Minnesota.
NDSA Names Top Hand at Annual Convention – The North Dakota Stockmen’s Association named McKenzie County cattle producer Keith Winter as its Top Hand for 2023. This award recognizes livestock producers who care for the land, the country and the cattle industry. Winter has served for 34 years as president of the McKenzie County Grazing Association and is an expert of federal land and grazing issues. Winter was presented the award at the 94th North Dakota Stockmen’s Association convention in Watford City.
Rancher of the Year Honors – Montpelier rancher Curtis Brown is the North Dakota Stockmen’s Association Rancher of the Year. Brown operates C-B Charolais where they sell Charolais bulls private treaty and background calves.
Environmental Stewardship Recognized – The North Dakota Stockmen’s Association recognized K Diamond Cattle of Woodworth, North Dakota as the recipient of the 2023 Environmental Stewardship Award. K Diamond Cattle is a diversified crop and cow-calf operation owned by Brandon and Lacey Koenig. The Koenig family will compete at a regional level with state winners from South Dakota, Nebraska, and Kansas.
A Good Day for MN at World Dairy Expo – The University of Minnesota won the National Intercollegiate Dairy Judging Contest at World Dairy Expo. Ben Styer, who is part of the University of Minnesota team, was the top individual judge. Minnesota also took top honors in the National 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest. Natalie Clemenson, who is a member of the Minnesota team, was the top individual judge.
Last Week’s Trivia-‘You’re in Good Hands’ is the advertising slogan for Allstate Insurance. Linda Skelly of Columbia Grain wins our weekly trivia challenge. Runner up honors belong to Todd Good of AgCountry Farm Credit Services, Lawton farmer Dennis Miller, Marshall Mayor Bob Byrnes and Mark Haugland of the National Wheat Foundation board. The ‘first 20’ rounds out with Scott Roemhildt of the Minnesota DNR, Denny Pinske of Bennett Houglum Agency, UM Extension Educator Patrick Jirik, Eric Lahlum of Corteva, Kristal Rick of MAGNO Seed, Lyle Orwig of Certified Agriculture Dealerships, Val Dolcini of Syngenta, Randy Knudsvig of First State Bank, Jeff Triebold of Columbia Grain, Al Wimpfheimer of Simplot, Mark Mettler of PreferredOne, Crookston farmer Ron Lanctot, Kevin Schulz of The Farmer, Adams farmer Dave Linstad, Dave Gehrtz of Proseed and Jacob Downing of Cargill.
This Week’s Trivia-On a standard computer keyboard, what is the only vowel that isn’t in the top row of letters? Send your answer to don@rrfn.com.
RRFN Upcoming Events | |||
October 1, 2023 - October 6, 2023 | World Dairy Expo - Madison, WI | ||
October 1, 2023 - October 7, 2023 | National 4-H Week | ||
October 2, 2023 - October 4, 2023 | MN Broadcasters Association Annual Meeting - St, Paul, MN | ||
October 3, 2023 - October 4, 2023 | ND Soybean Council Food & Farm Tour - Fargo ND | ||
October 3, 2023 - October 4, 2023 | SD Stockgrowers Assn Convention - Spearfish, SD | ||
October 6, 2023 - October 7, 2023 | ND Lamb and Wool Producers Convention - Bismarck, ND | ||
October 8, 2023 - October 10, 2023 | ND Ass’n of Counties Annual Conference - Bismarck, ND | ||
October 9, 2023 | NDSA All-Breeds Cattle Tour - Lisbon, ND | ||
October 10, 2023 - October 11, 2023 | 2023 UAS Summit & Expo - Grand Forks, ND | ||
October 16, 2023 | NDSU Outlook Conference for Ag Lenders - Grand Forks, ND | ||
October 17, 2023 | NDSU Outlook Conference for Ag Lenders - Minot, ND | ||
October 17, 2023 | Missouri River Joint Water Board - Linton, ND | ||
October 18, 2023 | NDSU Outlook Conference for Ag Lenders - Mandan, ND | ||
October 18, 2023 | Missouri River Joint Water Board - Fargo ND | ||
October 19, 2023 | NDSU Outlook Conference for Ag Lenders - Fargo ND | ||
October 19, 2023 | Missouri River Joint Water Board - Devils Lake, ND | ||
October 27, 2023 | Agri-Women’s Conference - Grand Forks, ND |
Contact RRFN | Don Wick (701) 795-1315 |
Randy Koenen (701) 795-1315 |
Tyler Donaldson (701)-795-1315 |
Melissa Hammer (701)-795-1315 |
RRFN Affiliate Stations | |||
Aberdeen, SD – 105.5 FM | Ada, MN – 106.5 FM | Bagley, MN – 96.7 FM | Bemidji, MN – 1300 AM |
Benson, MN – 1290 AM | Bismarck, ND – 1270 AM | Bismarck, ND – 1270 AM | Casselton, ND – 103.9 FM |
Crookston, MN – 1260 AM | Devils Lake, ND – 103.5 FM | Fergus Falls, MN – 1250 AM | Fosston, MN – 1480 AM |
Glenwood, MN – 107.1 FM | Grafton, ND – 1340 AM | Jamestown, ND – 600 AM | Langdon, ND – 1080 AM |
Mahnomen, MN – 101.5 FM | Mayville, ND – 105.5 FM | Roseau, MN – 102.1 FM | Rugby, ND – 1450 AM |
Thief River Falls, MN – 1460 AM | Wadena, MN – 920 AM | Warroad, MN – 92.5 FM | Worthington, MN – 730 AM |
FarmNetNews is a production of the Red River Farm Network. RRFN is based in Grand Forks, North Dakota and provides news to farmers and ranchers across Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota.