DEVELOPMENTS

The Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City is strengthening its advocacy partnership with the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce. With new elected leaders coming to the White House, Congress, and the Kansas and Missouri legislatures, AgBizKC Director of Member Services Zach Helder has joined the Chamber Public Policy Council (PPC) as the Council’s representative. Helder, an agriculture policy expert, is working to ensure agriculture has a strong voice in the Chamber’s public policy program. Said Helder, “Now, as much as ever, Agriculture needs to unite in support of free and fair trade, science-based policymaking, and the passage of a strong farm bill. Agriculture drives as much as 20% of our region’s economic output, and the Council is the PPC’s sole representative for the industry, so it’s a job we take very seriously, especially given the uncertainty in the ag economy. The Chamber’s policy staff and PPC members have been great partners and listeners. I’m confident they’ll help us educate policymakers about the broadly-held interests of agriculture, from producers, to businesses, to every American affected by food prices.”

Cooking a Thanksgiving Feast will cost less than last year but will still be more expensive than before the pandemic. The American Farm Bureau Federation’s 39th annual Thanksgiving dinner survey provides a snapshot of the average cost of this year’s traditional holiday feast for 10, which is $58.08 or about $5.80 per person. This is a 5% decrease from 2023, which was 4.5% lower than 2022. Two years of declines don’t erase dramatic increases that led to a record high cost of $64.06 in 2022. Despite the encouraging momentum, a Thanksgiving meal is still 19% higher than it was in 2019, which highlights the impact inflation has had on food prices (and farmers’ costs) since the pandemic. The average price for a 16-pound turkey is $25.67. That is $1.60 per pound, down 6%t from last year. AFBF volunteer shoppers checked prices Nov. 1-7, before most grocery store chains began featuring whole frozen turkeys at sharply lower prices.

Kansas Senator Jerry Moran, Senior Republican on the Senate Appropriations Committee, told Agri-Pulse Communications, that lawmakers are still in the “preliminary stages” of crafting a package of disaster aid and market-loss relief for farmers. But in an interview with Agri-Pulse Newsmakers, Sen. Jerry Moran indicated Congress will ensure this aid package does a better job of covering natural disaster losses than the last version did. “I can assure our viewers that we're absolutely committed to making sure that this Emergency Relief Program payment is one that is actually beneficial to producing farmers,” Moran said. USDA pro-rated payments under the 2022 version of ERP to ensure smaller scale farmers got a bigger share of their losses covered. USDA officials defended their decision to do that by noting Congress only funded about one-third of the estimated losses. This time, Congress is looking at providing about $24 billion for disaster-related losses in 2023 and 2024, Moran said. Source: Agri-Pulse Daybreak, November 22, 2024.

Cattle producers should stay “business-like” during the next 12 to 24 months said CattleFax CEO Randy Blach during Beef Industry University, sponsored by the Farm Credit Associations of Kansas. He further explained that the industry is set to face cyclical-low cowherd and fed cattle numbers, but likely already has seen the bulk of the cyclical price increases. “While we all want to remain optimistic, this is not a time in the cattle cycle to bet the whole wad,” Blach said. “We are also at record-high retail beef prices, so we need to be conscious that we could see some consumer pushback and demand erosion.” Blach predicts 2025 calf prices will average around $320/cwt. to $330/cwt., while feeder prices are expected to range between $250/cwt. and $260/cwt. Fed cattle prices should average near $192/cwt. “All in all, this is a pretty unique time in our industry, with some of the best profitability numbers we’ve seen by segment,” he said. Source: Kansas Livestock Cattle Association, November 22, 2024.

The Kansas Department of Agriculture welcomed a beef genetics trade team from Canada in late October. The diverse trade team represented progressive seedstock operations located throughout Saskatchewan and Alberta and the participants had varied cattle breed interests including Black and Red Angus, Charolais, Hereford, and Simmental breeds. Suzanne Ryan-Numrich, international trade director at KDA, highlighted the significance of the trade relationship with Canada. “This trade mission was the direct result of an outbound trade mission to Canadian Western Agribition last fall,” she said. “It highlights the growing interest in beef genetics and the potential for cross-border partnerships in the beef industry. Through these trade missions, Kansans have had the opportunity to market purebred beef cattle and expand their global networks.” Supporting all facets of agriculture is central to KDA’s mission, including facilitating opportunities for producers to market and sell beef genetics both domestically and internationally.

In a statement released in earlier this month, the Livestock Marketing Association urged USDA to suspend enforcement of the electronic identification (EID) rule immediately. The current state of tag availability in various states is setting this transition as well as the livestock industry up for failure. “Our policy is clear in both opposing any move to mandatory individual identification of feeder cattle and demanding any mandate on currently covered animals be fully funded by USDA. This includes readers, infrastructure, tags, tag application, data collection and data management. Despite our extensive efforts in working with Congress, USDA and state veterinarians to ensure this program is handled effectively, major issues remain with the allocation and availability of USDA-provided EID tags needed to comply with the rule. Since this sets up an unfunded mandate on cattle producers, enforcement must be suspended. We will continue to work with Congress, state veterinarians, our member auctions and USDA to impact change on this issue.”

EPA has launched a new, no-cost technical assistance effort focused on reducing exposure to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and other emerging contaminants in small or disadvantaged communities. This initiative is part of EPA’s Water Technical Assistance Program. The Tackling Emerging Contaminants initiative will help eligible public drinking-water systems evaluate emerging contaminant issues, conduct initial water quality testing, and identify next steps in 200 small or disadvantaged communities over the next three years. EPA will also share best practices and amplify successes through case studies, fact sheets, webinars, and other resources regarding addressing emerging contaminants, including PFAS. “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is providing a focused opportunity to help small and disadvantaged communities address PFAS and emerging contaminants to ensure that drinking water is clean and safe for residents,” said EPA Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator for Water Bruno Pigott. “By working hand-in-hand with local partners, the Tackling Emerging Contaminants initiative will help ensure that historically underserved areas have access to safer drinking water that is essential for healthy and vibrant communities.”

The Kansas Department of Agriculture joined the New Mexico Department of Agriculture and the International Brangus Breeders Association on a beef genetics trade mission to northwestern Mexico on November 4-7, 2024. Assistant Secretary Josh McGinn and Agribusiness Coordinator Tessa Beeman represented KDA on the mission team, which spent three days in Sonora visiting Santa Cecilia Angus, El Cosari Ranch, La Muira Ranch, Santa Patricia Brangus, Sierra Angus Ranch and a cattle feedlot Rancho el 17. The team’s ranch visits allowed them to better understand the type of beef genetics that would fit the environment. While in Hermosillo, the group had an opportunity to host a seminar at the Sonora Cattle Union, which presented data on U.S. feedyards and information related to profitability of good genetics. “Witnessing firsthand the ability for Brangus to not just handle but thrive in the harsh environment of Hermosillo was an eye-opening experience,” said Grant Goree, International Junior Brangus Breeders Association Board Member and International Liaison. “My level of respect towards our breed has grown seeing the resilience, strength, and adaptability Brangus brings to an operation.” It is the mission of KDA to support all facets of agriculture, including facilitating opportunities that connect producers who wish to market and sell beef genetics domestically and internationally.

The Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Agribusiness Retailers Association held the annual Kansas Agri-Business Expo from November 19-21. The Expo featured a leadership conference, which AgBizKC attended, to discuss emerging issues in agriculture. The expo’s keynote speaker was Ray Starling, former USDA Chief of Staff and White House Official in President Donald Trump’s first term, who reportedly is under consideration for a senior role in the next administration.

Farmer sentiment saw an unexpected surge in October ahead of the upcoming U.S. election, according to the latest Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer. The index rose to 115, marking a 27-point increase from September. This boost in sentiment was primarily driven by a rise in producers’ confidence in the future, with the Future Expectations Index jumping 30 points to 124. While the Current Conditions Index also improved, reaching 95, it still reflected farmers’ concerns that economic conditions this year are worse than last year and weaker than the barometer’s base period of 2015-16 during the early days of a multiyear downturn in the U.S. farm economy. Despite current challenges, the October survey indicated some optimism among producers that economic conditions may strengthen, avoiding an extended downturn in the farm economy. This month’s survey was conducted from Oct. 14-18, 2024. Source: Agriculture of America, November 6, 2024.

EVENTS

Sachse Family Angus would like to invite you to their 3rd Annual RanchFIT Ruck located near Easton, Kansas on Saturday, December 21st. Located near the rolling hills of Kansas' first city of Leavenworth, this ruck is located in the heart of the Sachse family farming and ranching operation. This will be a trail hike through pasture, hayfield, and crop ground. Whether you are a first-time rucker or an avid enthusiast, this ruck is for you. More information and signup is located here.

Kansas Farm Bureau will celebrate its 106th annual meeting December 7-9 in Manhattan, Kansas. “I’m excited we will be gathering again to conduct the work of the state’s largest general farm organization,” says Joe Newland, president of Kansas Farm Bureau. “I’m so glad I’ll get to celebrate once again with our members, county Farm Bureaus and friends from across the state.” The organization’s annual meeting will begin Saturday evening with KFB’s Foundations’ Fundraiser, A Night in Vegas, which benefits the End Hunger Program to address food insecurity in Kansas. The doors open for all at 5:45 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn, with the event starting promptly at 6 p.m. On Sunday, informational workshops, tradeshow vendors and a silent auction will be open to attendees. Workshop topics include technology in agriculture, biosecurity, succession planning, mental health and more. A full list is available here. During the general session, awards for Friends of Agriculture, Natural Resources, county Farm Bureaus, mental health advocacy and media will be presented. Diane Sullivan, cofounder of Equitable Spaces, and Brian Klippenstein, senior advisor to former USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue, will host a panel discussion on how important the freedom to operate on farms and ranches is vital not only to agriculturalists, but also to low-income families.

Winter is coming and Kansas Corn and its commodity partners are offering several events with learning and networking opportunities for Kansas corn farmers. With four Kansas Corn and Soybean Schools held across the state, the Kansas Corn Symposium and Kansas Commodity Classic, growers can catch up with their commodity organizations, and farmers from across Kansas, and can hear from top speakers about issues that impact agriculture and their farms’ profitability. All events are offered free to growers.

Kansas Corn and Soybean Schools: 2025 Kansas Corn and Soybean Crop Management Schools will be held across the state Jan. 14-17. Kansas Corn and Kansas Soybean partner with K-State Research and Extension to offer the Kansas Corn and Soybean Schools, winter learning sessions for Kansas soybean and corn farmers. The Kansas Corn and Soybean Schools cover a number of issues for growers and are tailored to each region. Morning refreshments and a hot lunch are provided at these in-person schools.
Kansas Corn Symposium, Thursday, Jan. 30. Get ready to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Kansas Corn Growers Association at the Kansas Corn Symposium. The symposium will begin with a luncheon, top speakers, the KCGA annual meeting, a 50th Anniversary reception, dinner and entertainment. The Symposium will be held on Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025 at the Salina Hilton Garden Inn. The Kansas Corn Symposium brings together Kansas corn farmers, leaders and industry supporters to celebrate corn.
The Kansas Commodity Classic: Friday, Jan. 31. The Kansas Commodity Classic is the annual convention of the Kansas Corn, Grain Sorghum, Soybean and Wheat growers associations. The Classic will be held Friday, January 31, 2025 at the Salina Hilton Garden Inn, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Join us for a high quality program with speakers on markets, policy and more along with breakfast and lunch, all offered free to growers thanks to the generous support of our sponsors.

More information at kscorn.com.

PEOPLE

Nineteen individuals and six businesses were recognized at the 2024 KLA Convention in Manhattan for joining the association in 1974, and keeping their membership active for a half-century. Those to be honored are Beachner Bros. Livestock, Parsons; William Brethour, Maple Hill; Burkdoll Brothers Inc., Rantoul; Tom Carr, Medicine Lodge; Dave Casement, Sedan; Mike and Pam Collinge, Hamilton; Larry Corah, Manhattan; David Cross, Lewis; Stephen Donley, Ellsworth; Henry Eggers, Yates Center; Five Rivers Cattle Feeding/Grant County Feeders, Ulysses; Grabbe Farms, Hays; Jerry Grout, Mankato, Terry and Paul Handke, Muscotah; Tony Imm, Phillipsburg; Kansas State Bank of Overbrook and Scranton; Kueser Brothers Farms, Richmond; James “Tony” Meseke, Alma; Thomas Perrier, Eureka; Jerald Riemann, Dighton; Loyd Schoen, Lenora; Rex Schultze, Osborne; George Teagarden, La Cygne; Lafe Wilson, Uniontown; and James Zwonitzer, Horton….. Four members will be honored for 60 years of loyalty to the association. Gartrell Farms, Stockton; Geffert Herefords, Haven; Gilliland Cattle Co. LLC, Leon; and Brad Tate, Welch, OK, all joined KLA in 1964…….Seven decades of membership will be recognized for Adams Cattle Company, Plains; the late Marilyn Fairbairn, Edmond, OK; Jack MacNair, Dodge City; and Tony Renollet, Sterling……This year marked 80 and 90 years of continuous membership by one business in each category: U.S. Bank of Topeka joined KLA in 1944. Leonhard Ranch, Berryton, became a member in 1934…….These loyal individuals and businesses exhibit steadfast commitment to KLA’s mission of “advancing members’ common business interests and enhancing their ability to meet consumer demand.”

Oliver Ward has joined the Agri-Pulse team on Capitol Hill as international trade editor. He has extensive experience in trade and international economics at Inside U.S. Trade and the Peterson Institute for International Economics, a non-partisan think tank. He can be reached by email here.

Missouri Corn Growers Association and Missouri Corn Merchandising Council CEO Bradley Schad of Versailles, Missouri, was recently recognized with the Honorary American FFA Degree at the 97th National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis. The Honorary American FFA Degree is given to individuals who advance agricultural education and FFA through outstanding personal commitment. Nominations are first submitted to the individual’s state FFA association for approval before being endorsed by the National FFA Organization’s board of directors. As a member of the Versailles FFA Chapter, Schad earned both the State and American FFA Degrees. Recognizing education is a crucial component in moving the industry forward, Missouri Corn has been and remains dedicated to investing in efforts to expand agriculture outreach.