A five-minute summary of AAI, regulation, and industry activities for members of the largest state agribusiness association in the nation. | |
Iowa Commercial Applicator of the Year Nominations Open | |
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Nominations are open for the first annual Iowa Commercial Applicator of the Year.
Click Here for Nomination Form
Commercial applicators in Iowa spend hundreds of hours in the field every year applying fertilizer and crop protection products on millions of crop acres. This award showcases the hard work professional applicators put into caring for crops and customers as well as their involvement in their communities.
We are proud to recognize these outstanding agribusiness professionals with an award that recognizes the often anonymous, tireless hours of labor required to keep Iowa's crop system running efficiently.
Nomination Requirements
There is no limit on the number of nominations a nominator may submit, however, a nominator may only submit one nomination for any one candidate. Nominators may nominate themselves. Nominators must be employees of companies that are members of the Agribusiness Association of Iowa. Candidates must primarily be an operator of application equipment and work for an AAI Retail Company member.
Nominations for Iowa Commercial Applicator of the Year must be received no later than close of business on January 25, 2023. Questions? Please contact Reilly Vaughan at reilly@agribiz.org or 515.262.8323.
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IOWA COMMERCIAL APPLICATOR OF THE YEAR IS SPONSORED BY | |
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INREC 2022 Crop Year Survey Starts This Month | |
The Iowa Nutrient Research & Education Council (INREC) has been measuring progress towards the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy for over five years. The flagship measurement tool is a survey of ag retailers regarding their customers’ adoption of conservation practices such as cover crops, reduced tillage, and nutrient management. INREC’s regional liaisons will be visiting 150 randomly selected ag retail locations to carry out the survey for the 2022 crop year.
For more information on the survey protocols and results from 2017-2021, visit:
Programs & Resources | Iowa Nutrient Research & Education Council (iowanrec.org)
Contact Ben Gleason, INREC executive director, at bgleason@agribiz.org if you have any questions.
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EPA Published Rule Expanding Federal Jurisdiction Over Rainwater | |
The following synopsis of the latest Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rules is provided by AAI Legal Counsel Doug Gross with BrownWinick Law.
Anyone involved in agribusiness knows that there has been political tug-of-war over the definition of Waters of the United States (“WOTUS”). The political war started in 1977 when Congress took a pass at defining what WOTUS means and left it to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the EPA to come up with a definition. Since 1977, the definition has been changed, expanded, contracted, redefined by courts, and enjoined twenty-three times.
The latest effort to change the definition took another step forward on Friday, December 30, 2022, when the EPA quietly pulled the trigger on all-new rules. As they say, bad news is always published on a Friday and really bad news is published on a Friday before a big holiday weekend. To help us understand the new WOTUS definition, the EPA published what it surely believes is a simple and easy to understand 514-page summary(!) of the new rule. On page 225 there is a summary of the summary where the EPA states that it adopts the 1986 definition which are currently in effect but adds the “significant nexus standard” for waters that don’t meet any common-sense definition of “navigable waters.” The new rule interprets a significant nexus to include waters that “either alone or in combination with similarly situated waters in the region, significantly affect the chemical, physical, or biological integrity of traditional navigable waters...” This is a significant expansion of jurisdiction.
Of particular importance to agribusiness, the new rule keeps most of the old 1986 exclusions but removes the exclusion for prior converted farmland if that farmland use ceases. The rule also strikes what was probably the most important exclusion in the previous administration’s 2020 rule, which excluded ephemeral streams. An ephemeral stream is a stream that only flows when it rains. This continued effort to apply federal jurisdiction to ephemeral streams is a big problem for agriculture. All farmland has water running across the ground during rainstorms. The EPA’s justification for removing the exclusion for ephemeral streams is that there could be “chemical, physical, or biological” effects on downstream jurisdictional waters. You can see where this is headed. In fact, the summary quotes some commenters that begged the EPA to assert jurisdiction over ephemeral streams specifically because they transport “nutrients.” Now you know where this is headed.
This rule change is a significant expansion as the Army Corps of Engineers typically extends jurisdiction over water channels in farm fields if those water channels have a “bed, bank, and ordinary high-water mark.”
What is going to happen? Every rule change during the last three decades has been enjoined by the courts. This rule change will probably be no different. Also, just a month after the first draft of the rule was published for comment in 2021 the United States Supreme Court granted certiorari in a WOTUS case that may develop an altogether different WOTUS definition. Look for that new decision to be issued by the Supreme Court any time between now and July 1st. Because the new rule will not take effect until after sixty days, look for a Supreme Court opinion before the end of February.
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Grants for Iowa Exporters | |
The International Trade Office (ITO) has grants available for eligible Iowa companies to exhibit at international trade shows and IEDA trade missions, and to obtain website services for international sales, translation of materials, advertising in international markets and participating in CIRAS ExporTech™ 2.0.
Small to medium sized Iowa companies looking to market to countries outside the U.S. and expand sales can click the link below to learn more about the ITO financial assistance grant programs, or contact Lisa Longman at international@iowaeda.com.
International Trade Office Grants Information
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Swearing-In Ceremony for Iowa Secretary of Ag | |
Mike Naig will be sworn-in for his second full term as Iowa Secretary of Agriculture on Friday, Jan. 13 at 1:00 PM. The ceremony, which will be held in the Iowa State Capitol Rotunda, is open to the public.
Iowa Supreme Court Chief Justice Susan Christensen will administer the oath of office to Naig.
The event will be held in conjunction with the Governor’s inaugural open house in the Capitol.
What: Swearing-in Ceremony for Mike Naig, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture
Where: Iowa State Capitol Rotunda - 1007 E. Grand Ave, Des Moines, Iowa
When: 1:00 PM, Friday, Jan. 13, 2023
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AAI Legislative Breakfast at the Capitol | |
Join your fellow AAI members at the Iowa State Capitol for a breakfast reception meet and greet with Iowa legislators. This event is a prime opportunity to make connections with legislators and talk about items that are important to your business.
AAI Legislative Breakfast
Thursday, January 26, 2023
7:30 AM to 9:00 AM
Iowa State Capitol, Des Moines
Room 15 - Legislative Dining Room
Those attending will meet at the AAI main office prior to the event and walk over to the Iowa State Capitol Building. Attendees may also go directly to the event as their schedule allows.
If you have any questions, contact Sally Thompson - sally@agribiz.org or 515.262.8323.
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This Week In Agribusiness with Max Armstrong
Watch or Listen Online
Bill Northey, Agribusiness Association of Iowa, joins Max to discuss the concerns and issues in D.C. with House Republicans struggling to find a majority leader and what impact that can have on the upcoming farm bill, transportation, and policies moving forward
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ONLY 15 DAYS UNTIL REGISTRATION RATES INCREASE | |
A Schedule So Good It's Limitless | |
Ever wonder why some events have such a limited schedule? So do we. Check out this sampling from Showcase, then get all the details online:
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 14
Crops Conference Highlights
- Panel on Workforce Challenges
- Iowa Nitrogen Initiative
- Strip Till Panel
- Crop and Input Market Update
All Industry Reception
- Joan O'Brien Retirement Celebration
- Corn Hole Tournament
- PAC Auction
CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOWCASE SCHEDULE
Be a part of it all - Register Now!
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Exhibitors: Need An Exhibit Space? | |
There's still room for you, but options are dwindling
Attendees are looking for companies on the exhibitor list. Add your company to the Agribusiness Showcase & Conference so your clients (and future clients) know you'll be there!
Click For Exhibitor List
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Make an Impact - Donate an Item for the Iowa Agribusiness PAC Auction | |
Tuesday evening activities during the reception on February 14 at the 2023 Agribusiness Showcase & Conference will include the annual LIVE AUCTION which raises funds to support the Iowa Agribusiness Political Action Committee (AAI-PAC) and the Agribusiness Association of Iowa Foundation (AAIF). There are also plans in place for the return of the silent auction this year!
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Be there! Help celebrate the retirement of Joan O'Brien from AAI.
Donate an auction item! Your donation of an experience, item, or package of items will help make this year’s auction the best yet! Please email Sally Thompson for more information or to confirm a donation - sally@agribiz.org.
A FEW NOTES ABOUT DONATIONS
All donations to the PAC must be from personal funds and are not tax deductible. No corporate funds allowed. This includes in-kind donations such as items for bid (e.g. round of golf).
Donations from corporate or business organizations will support the AAI Foundation.
If you have any questions, contact Sally Thompson - sally@agribiz.org or 515.868.0323.
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January 18
Showcase Committee Meeting
11:00 AM | AAI Main Office Board Room
January 26
AAI Legislative Breakfast
8:00 AM | Iowa State Capitol Building
AAI Board of Directors Meeting
10:00 AM | AAI Main Office Board Room
February 14 & 15
Agribusiness Showcase & Conference
Knapp Varied Industries Building
Iowa State Fairgrounds | Des Moines, Iowa
Click Here to Register Online
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WATCH THE AGRIBUSINESS REPORT | |
Crop Insurance Discount Program for Cover Crops Extended to January 27 | |
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig today extended the deadline to apply for the Crop Insurance Discount Program for cover crops to Jan. 27. Farmers who planted fall cover crops in 2022 can apply to receive $5 per acre discount on their 2023 crop insurance premiums.
To qualify for the Crop Insurance Discount Program, the cover crop acres cannot be enrolled in other state or federal cost share programs. Farmers should visit the local USDA service center to learn about other cost share funding available to support the implementation of conservation practices. Some insurance policies, such as Whole-Farm Revenue Protection or those covered through written agreements, may be excluded. Participants must follow all existing farming practices required by their respective policy and work with their insurance agencies to maintain eligibility.
Full details at: apply.cleanwateriowa.org
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Source: Successful Farming
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Ethanol plants in Iowa produced an estimated 4.5 billion gallons in 2022 — a new record for the state, according to the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association.
The association’s estimate is based on survey data, public reports, and other information. It surpasses the state’s 2021 estimated production record of 4.4 billion gallons.
“Iowa continues to set the pace for ethanol production around the world,” said Monte Shaw, executive director of the association. “The attractive price of E15 and E85 drove sales during the 2022 gas price spike. Barring a recession, we expect ethanol demand to grow each year as Iowa and other states make progress in increasing access to E15, often marketed as Unleaded 88.”
The new production record is roughly the current total production capacity of the state’s 42 ethanol plants, according to association data.
The industry is an important market for Iowa farmers; more than half of the state’s corn is used to produce ethanol.
State lawmakers last year adopted legislation that would require the sale of blended fuels that are 15% ethanol at gas stations. E10 — a blended fuel with 10% ethanol — has long been the standard blend.
[...] Read Full Story
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The American Farm Bureau Federation and John Deere signed a memorandum of understanding that ensures farmers’ and ranchers’ right to repair their own farm equipment. The MOU, signed at the 2023 AFBF Convention in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is the culmination of several years of discussions between AFBF and John Deere.
“AFBF is pleased to announce this agreement with John Deere. It addresses a long-running issue for farmers and ranchers when it comes to accessing tools, information, and resources while protecting John Deere’s intellectual property rights and ensuring equipment safety,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “A piece of equipment is a major investment. Farmers must be free to choose where equipment is repaired or to repair it themselves to help control costs. The MOU commits John Deere to ensure farmers and independent repair facilities have access to the tools and software needed to grow the food, fuel, and fiber America’s families rely on.”
John Deere executive David Gilmore said, “This agreement reaffirms the longstanding commitment Deere has made to ensure our customers have the diagnostic tools and information they need to make many repairs to their machines. We look forward to working alongside the American Farm Bureau and our customers in the months and years ahead to ensure farmers continue to have the tools and resources to diagnose, maintain and repair their equipment.”
The MOU sets parameters and creates a mechanism to address farmers’ concerns. John Deere commits to engaging with farmers and dealers to resolve issues when they arise and agrees to meet with AFBF at least twice per year to evaluate progress.
[...] Read Full Story
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Data trends that emerged in 2022 help demonstrate that most people are slow to start spending differently when it comes to their favorite foods, despite an economic environment much different than when the year began. But there are some notable exceptions to this stickiness in food behaviors and preferences, according to the newly released Consumer Food Insights Report.
The survey-based report out of Purdue University's Center for Food Demand Analysis and Sustainability assesses food spending, consumer satisfaction and values, support of agricultural and food policies and trust in information sources.
"Broadly speaking, consumers faced some budget constraints this holiday season," said Jayson Lusk, the head and Distinguished Professor of Agricultural Economics at Purdue, who leads the center. "About a third said they were worried about being able to afford gifts, but this was far from the majority. When we compare responses to inflation in December to this past summer, most of these behaviors have not increased in frequency."
Lusk drew attention, however, to the increase in people switching to cheaper brands — unwelcome news for brand names that have worked hard to build a consumer base.
Purdue experts conducted and evaluated the survey, which included 1,200 consumers across the United States. Additional key results were:
Household food expenditures increased more than 15% from January.
Consumers are shopping at discount stores more and spending less on discretionary expenses.
36% of consumers were worried about being able to afford holiday gifts this year.
14% of consumers are finding certain items out of stock compared to 25% in January.
Sugar was the most common item that consumers limited in their 2022 diets.
[...] Read Full Story
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Source: American Soybean Association
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The soybean processing industry intends to significantly grow over the next few years. This change will open up more domestic opportunities for soybean consumption. Soybeans are almost never used whole but are instead “crushed” to produce soybean meal and soybean oil. Expanding crush capacity provides additional places for farmers to sell their beans while providing more soybean meal and oil for the domestic market. To date, there have been announcements for 23 plant expansions, which would add about 750 million bushels per year in crush capacity.
Many of the crush plant announcements are being driven by the growth in renewable diesel (for a background on this topic, see the previous Economist’s Angle). Demand for soybean oil to produce renewable diesel has started to grow and is projected to continue on that path. To produce extra soybean oil, crush capacity in the U.S. also must grow. In fact, some of the announced renewable diesel plants have been paired with crush plant announcements through a joint venture. Of the 23 crush plant announcements, 13 are for new plants and 10 are for expansion of current plants, at least two of which have been completed. However, announcements are not shovels in the ground. Expansion is based upon growing renewable diesel production, and as the biofuels industry grows, so will the crush plant buildout. State and federal policy, permits, financing and many other issues will determine what happens. This article presents the announcement numbers with current facilities, but caveat emptor, the reality may be different. Even so, some of the facilities are already undergoing construction or have been completed, which means the industry is already growing but total expansion is unknown.
Iowa has the highest soybean crush capacity of any state (Figure 2) with over 1.3 million bushels per day of nameplate capacity (approximately 420 million bushels per year in practical capacity). Realized announcements would add about another 340 thousand bushels per day in nameplate capacity. Iowa is followed by Indiana and Illinois in total crush capacity. Indiana is currently looking at minimal increases in capacity while Illinois has 445 thousand bushels per day of nameplate announcements. Some of the states with the largest percent increases are North Dakota, Nebraska and Louisiana. Nebraska and Louisiana’s capacity would nearly double, while North Dakota capacity would increase about seven times if all of the announcements were realized.
[...] Read Full Story
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THE AGRIBUSINESS REPORT
Follow host David Geiger on Twitter:
@geigerreports
Watch daily broadcast live:
KCRG-TV Cedar Rapids
WHO-TV Des Moines
KYOU-TV Ottumwa
Watch online any time:
https://agribiz.org/report
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