Where Land and Soil Meet Space

Last September during the Ag Business Council/Agri-Pulse Communication’s Ag Outlook Forum, Denver Caldwell, John Deere’s Director Region 4 Aftermarket and Customer Support, offered a forceful conclusion to his presentation. Caldwell exclaimed, “If anyone is looking for a job in advanced high technology, it’s right here in agriculture – and by association at John Deere.”  Caldwell’s remark was right on the money. On January 16, 2024, Deere & Company signed on with SpaceX to provide cutting-edge satellite communications (SATCOM) service to farmers. The accord gives John Deere access to SpaceX’s Starlink, a satellite internet constellation that provides coverage to over 70 countries.

This connection will allow farmers facing rural connectivity challenges to fully leverage precision agriculture technologies. This partnership will enable John Deere customers to be more productive, profitable, and sustainable in their operations as they continue to provide food, fuel, and fiber for their communities and a growing global population, said the company in a news release.

“The value of connectivity to farmers is broader than any single task or action. Connectivity unlocks vast opportunities that were previously limited or unavailable,” said Aaron Wetzel, Vice President of Production and Precision Ag Production Systems at John Deere. “For example, throughout the year, farmers must complete tasks within extremely short windows of time. This requires executing incredibly precise production steps while coordinating between machines and managing machine performance. Each of these areas are enhanced through connectivity, making the entire operation more efficient, effective, and profitable.”

The SATCOM solution will connect both new and existing machines through satellite internet service and ruggedized satellite terminals. This will fully enable technologies such as autonomy, real-time data sharing, remote diagnostics, enhanced self-repair solutions, and machine-to-machine communication, all of which help farmers work more efficiently while minimizing downtime.

“John Deere has led the agriculture equipment industry for more than two decades with satellite-based precision guidance technology,” said Jahmy Hindman, Senior Vice President & Chief Technology Officer at John Deere. “Now, we are bringing satellite communications service to the farm at scale so farmers with cellular coverage challenges can maximize the value of connectivity to their operations. The SATCOM solution unlocks the John Deere tech stack so every farmer can fully utilize their current precision agriculture technology in addition to the new innovative solutions they will deploy in the future. We initiated this process with a fierce focus on delivering value to our customers, and this partnership ensures we have a solution that meets their needs today and in the future.”Source and for more information:www.PublicRelations@JohnDeere.com

Digging Deeper...

This past November’s early snowfall may have signaled the approach of a particularly snowy winter for Kansas. This is a year of El Niño, a climate pattern that historically results in Kansas seeing more precipitation than usual, noted Matthew Sittel, Kansas State University Department of Agronomy and assistant K-State climatologist, in a report published November 16, 2023. For drought weary farmers and ranchers heading into the Christmas Holidays and the upcoming planting season, this was a tiding of comfort and joy. But there was also a coal-stuffed stocking to tamper this good news.  “I won’t say it’s a certainty,” Sittel said, “but there’s  a 99% chance that all of eastern Kansas, north, north-central, central Kansas will still be in drought conditions by April 1.”  
Excerpted, edited by Dennis McLaughlin, McLaughlin Writers LLC. Sources: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration – National Weather Service, Climate Prediction Service, National Center for Atmospheric Research, U.S. Drought Monitor; Topeka Capital-Journal,December 1, 2023 Tim Hrenchir, December 1, 2023; Kansas Reflector

Will El Nino Bring More Rain?

The arrival of El Nino – officially on June 8 of last year – has been eagerly anticipated by the agricultural industry, looking for relief from a disastrous drought that has persisted in some parts of the U.S. for some 22 years, according to the journal Nature Climate Change. Early maps released by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) show that California and Nevada could face above-average precipitation this winter, while Florida, Georgia, Louisiana and other southeastern states could encounter high levels of precipitation.

“The phrase El Nino can conjure up images of horrendous weather – severe storms in the southern U.S. and droughts in Asia and Africa,” wrote Allison Kite in the Kansas Reflector for Kansas and Missouri, El Nino is a months-long weather pattern that typically brings warm winters and extra precipitation to the central U.S., she says, adding, “It brings hope.”

Aaron Harries, vice president of research and operations for Kansas Wheat, said the possibility of more rain and snow brought on by El Nino is welcome news. “Anything better than what we’ve had the last three years is good news,” Harries told the Reflector. 

The National Center for Atmospheric Research has gone so far as to predict the current period would be a ‘Super El Nino’ event. Matthew Sittle, K-State climatologist, says, “As it turns out, a Super El Nino could indeed be a hero for Kansans.”

Zachary Leasor, Ph.D., University of Missouri assistant professor of climate science, is in step with Sittle.  “The possibility of more precipitation is cause for optimism,” he says. “Over the course of the drought, Missouri has built up long-term precipitation deficits and so it needs significant rain or snow to catch up.” 

Missouri sits on a divide between the south, which typically gets above-average precipitation in an El Nino year and the north, which sees less, making it difficult to predict if the state will get drought relief. “Hopefully that forecast does hold because that would be good news for drought improvement,” he said.

Still Struggling

A year ago, more than half of Kansas was in an extreme or exceptional drought, the most severe label given by the U.S. Drought Monitor. While it has eased, most of the state is still experiencing some level of drought. USDA reported in July that Kansas’ winter wheat production fell 15% from 2022. Bushels of wheat per acre fell from 32 to 27. Recently USDA  reported sorghum, a more drought-tolerant cereal crop, was planted in much higher quantities this year and the harvest was forecast to be 47% larger than last year’s. “While the situation is not as severe in Missouri,” reports Allison Kite in the Reflector, “just over half of the state remains in a lingering drought.”

Another USDA survey reported 62% of livestock producers in Missouri are short or very short on hay and roughage supplies, and 43% are short or very short on stock water. Huge swaths of the state have soil moisture levels far below historical averages. Corn yields are down 10% compared to 2022.

While Kansas and Missouri farmers and ranchers might have high hopes for El Nino, they know that a couple extra inches of rain or snow won’t solve a 12-inch shortfall in drought-stricken parts of their states. As Shawn Tiffany, past president of the Kansas Livestock Association with cattle operations in Morris, McPherson and Lyon counties quips: “There’s an old joke in Kansas that you’re never more than 30 days away from a flood or a drought. It’s just that the flood continues to be 30 days out on the horizon.”

Cause For Optimism

According to a National Weather Service forecast issued December 1, 2023, more than 90% of the state of Kansas is likely to see above-average precipitation over the months of December, January and February. A swath of territory along the northeast and east-central Kansas corridor bordering Missouri – which generally receives less precipitation than the rest of the state – could see above-average rain or snow. But the NWS hedged a bit, saying equal chances for below-average precipitation along that strip always exists. 

Matthew Sittel explains that El Nino has historically brought above-average rainfall and snowfall to Kansas. He points to NWS data showing Kansas has endured 73 winters since 1950. Twenty-one of those winters jibed with an El Nino event. Another 19 winters hosted a La Nina, while 33 winters were visited by neither. 

This year's El Nino is expected to bring more precipitation to most of Kansas. On average, NWS sees Kansas receiving 2.72 inches of precipitation over the months of December, January and February. That compares to an average 2.48 inches during a La Nina winter and 2.34 inches during neutral winters.

While a snowier winter is looking likely this year, NWS reminds farmers and ranchers “that rain and snowfall amounts are not the same.”  Snowfall totals are reported as the amount of liquid water the snow produces upon melting, explains the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrations. "An old rule of thumb is that for every ten inches of snow, there should be 1 inch of water – a 10:1 ratio," NOAA says. However, NOAA’s recent surveys of the Upper Midwest indicate that a 12:1 ratio might be more representative.

Using the equation of one inch of precipitation for every 10 to 12 inches of snow, notes Sittel, the extra 1.15 inches of precipitation Kansas could see on average during a Super El Nino winter – which this is shaping up to be – equates to between 11.5 inches and 13.8 inches of additional snow. But Sittel says these figures are averages, pointing out that not every Kansas winter during a Super El Nino has brought above-average precipitation. "Still, the averages suggest reason to be optimistic should a Super El Nino occur," he said. 

It’s a different story in Missouri. “The Show Me state tends to be somewhat of a transition state when we look at the impacts of El Nino across the country during the winter season,” says Pat Guinan, climatologist with the University of Missouri Extension Commercial Agriculture Program. The odds for above, below and near-normal temperatures and precipitation for much of Missouri are equal. Or as Michelle L’Heureux, a meteorologist at the Climate Prediction Center, puts it: “El Nino nudges the odds in favor of certain outcomes, but never ensures them.” So we’ll wait and see.

Latest News & Updates in KC Agriculture - January 2024

Developments

The state of Missouri is continuing to change the way foreign purchases of agriculture land are handled. A newly signed executive order requires landowners to tell the Missouri Department of Agriculture before they sell to foreign individuals or companies. Agriculture Director Chris Chinn said that they will begin emergency rule-making soon to provide more clarity and state lawmakers will consider adding more money for oversight. Missouri limits foreign ownership to 1 percent of its land and it cannot be within a 10-mile radius of a military installation.

National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) members –  state commissioners, secretaries and directors of agriculture – have chosen five issues to serve as the organization’s primary policy focus for 2024. They include the 2024 Farm Bill, food safety, labor reform, pesticide regulation, and PFAS.  “These issues were chosen for the organization’s 2024 focus as NASDA members see urgent need for action in these areas to support farmers and ranchers in their ability to grow our nation’s food, fiber and fuel,” said Ted McKinney. Further, “We believe these are the areas where state departments of agriculture are uniquely positioned to champion policy solutions this year,” he added.

Kansas City, MO-based AgriThority® is a Gold Partner of the 2024 World Agri-Tech Innovation Summit being held March 19-20 in San Francisco. The AgriThority team will join more than 2,000 industry experts to discuss opportunities and innovations in agriculture.  AgriThority’s Chief Technology Officer Gloverson Moro, Ph.D., will participate on a featured panel – Biologicals in Action: Getting Traction on Today’s Farms.  The session will cover topics such as the success and commercial viability of biological crop inputs on farms and the need for transformational R&D in biologicals. "Product development is as much about process as it is about science," Moro says. "Having clarity on what questions need to be addressed and in what order, is critical. We look forward to sharing our experience helping more than 539 technologies across more than 3,700 field trial farm locations prepare for adoption." 

Combine harvester sales closed out the year ahead of 2022 levels, while almost all tractor segments saw declines in both the United States and Canada, according to the latest data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM). Total U.S. farm tractor sales fell 5.1 percent in December compared to 2022, while year-to-date sales came in 8.7 percent lower than a year ago. However, 100+hp tractors grew 5.2 percent for the year and 3.6 percent in December, while combine harvesters finished 2023 with sales up 1.7 percent last month. The sub-40hp segment led losses for the year as a whole, falling 10.7 percent for calendar 2023 on the heels of a 5.8 percent drop in December. “Seeing year-over-year gains in U.S. sales of both combine harvesters and 100+hp tractors is a welcome sight as 2024 gets underway,” said AEM Senior Vice President Curt Blades. “And while several tractor segments fell last month versus 2023, we’re still confident in the strength of the equipment market and remain optimistic about its long-term growth.”

Missouri farmers who are member-owners of FCS Financial will receive $41.2 million back in cash patronage after the cooperative’s successful year. FCS Financial is a farmer-owned and led cooperative that has returned $292 million in earnings to eligible customers in Missouri over the past 17 years. FCS Financial Board Chair Kenny Bergmann and Vice Chair Beth Schnitker led the patronage vote during their monthly board meeting on December 20 and received unanimous support from all other directors. “Since implementing patronage in 2006, FCS Financial has returned $292 million to our member-owners. That is money being put back into Missouri’s rural communities,” says Rob Guinn, FCS Financial CEO. “We pay patronage because we are a cooperative that shares its profits with its member-owners. When you finance through us, you become a member-owner of our cooperative and may be eligible to receive the patronage among other membership benefits.”

The National Turkey Federation (NTF) has renewed its partnership with the Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS). It is kicking off the fifth year of the Turkey Smoke Series, which encourages both professional and amateur pitmasters to showcase the versatility and creativity of turkey on the smoker or grill. The Turkey Smoke Series features a turkey category in select barbeque competitions across the United States during the 2024 season. Pitmasters and contest organizers love that the Turkey Smoke Series adds thousands of dollars in extra prize money, trophies, and bragging rights at KCBS-sanctioned events, and Certified Barbeque Judges appreciate the opportunity to judge another delicious category! Winning recipes will be featured across KCBS and NTF digital platforms. “KCBS is thrilled to celebrate the fifth year of the partnership with the National Turkey Federation which brings the popular Turkey Smoke category to 16 states,” said Rod Gray, Chief Executive Officer of the Kansas City Barbeque Society.

The Missouri Department of Agriculture has been allocated $6.9 million through the USDA Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) Program to help strengthen the food supply chain between the farmer and consumer. The purpose of the RFSI program is to build resilience in the middle of the food supply chain; to provide more and better markets to small farms and food businesses; and to support the development of value-added products for consumers, fair prices, fair wages and new and safe job opportunities that keep profits in rural communities. MDA will distribute the funds as competitive grants to invest in the aggregation, processing, manufacturing, storage, transportation, wholesale and distribution of locally produced food. Eligible products include fruits and vegetables, dairy, grains for human consumption, aquaculture, and other food products (excluding meat and poultry).

Dairy Farmers of America has made the first purchase of verified carbon credits within the livestock value chain from one of its Texas dairy farmer owners. The buy represents the first transaction in the carbon insetting marketplace.  Unlike the traditional offset purchases of carbon credits for actions taken on the farm, the inset market ensures farmers are paid directly for their actions and allows those in the supply chain to purchase credits to meet individual companies’ sustainability goals. The new cloud-based livestock carbon market launched by Elanco Animal Health and Athian establishes the first protocol to pay producers who adopt specific manure management standards or use Elanco's feed additive Rumensin, which the company said reduces enteric emissions by 5%. “We’re gratified to see this science-based, third-party verified and validated system coming to life with the Athian platform and that dairy farmers are among the first to prove it works,” said Dennis Rodenbaugh, DFA president and CEO.

Earlier this month, Tyson Foods and Cargill suspended operations at beef plants in Kansas due to a massive snowstorm, reducing U.S. meat production. Blizzard-like conditions had left meatpacking workers stranded on highways while others spent the night at the slaughterhouses where they work, the companies and state officials said. Disruptions at plants slashed beef production at a time prices remain high after U.S. ranchers reduced their herds. Nationwide, meatpackers slaughtered an estimated 94,000 cattle on January 9, down 25% from a week earlier, according to USDA. 

Now in its second year, the Livestock Marketing Association scholarship program has been expanded. It supports students who are interested in or display knowledge and an understanding of the importance of livestock marketing and the livestock industry. Applicants must be a graduating high school senior and/or currently enrolled at an accredited post-secondary institution (i.e. trade school, community college, junior college, university, veterinary science, veterinary medicine or law) in the year of the award. Following the deadline, scholarship applications will be reviewed by a panel of allied-industry, LMA leadership and/or LMA membership not sponsoring or related to applicants at time of application. Up to nine (9) post-secondary applicants will receive a $2500 one-time scholarship. The contact information and signature of an active LMA member endorsing the applicant must be submitted at the time of application.  More information available here.  

Kansas Department of Agriculture is seeking feedback from Kansans for the 2024 Custom Rates Survey to collect information on rates paid for agricultural custom work. The survey is administered through the K-State Land Use Survey Center and will be open through April 30, 2024. This survey collects data on charges for ag custom work, feed preparation, and machinery rental. Whether you provide custom services or you hire custom services, knowing accurate, competitive prices is crucial for the sustainability of agricultural operations. Completion of the survey should take less than 15 minutes. “We view the Kansas Custom Rates Survey as a very valuable tool for farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses to access as they consider contracts and agriculture service arrangements,” said Secretary Mike Beam.“KDA works to provide support and assistance to help make Kansas agriculture more successful, and we are pleased to partner with K-State to publish this biennial survey.” To complete the survey, please click here. If you are unable to complete the survey but wish to participate, please contact Dr. Leah Tsoodle, Director, Land Use Survey Center, at LTsoodle@ksu.edu or Tori Laird, KDA Division of Agriculture Marketing, at 785-564-6726 or Tori.Laird@ks.gov to receive a written survey or to complete the survey over the telephone.

Events

Kansas State University-Olathe has listed two upcoming professional development workshops and webinars:

• The Statistician in R&D: A Vital Team Member, Not an Inconvenience – March 6, 11:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  “Statistics is a critical part of regulatory submissions and working with statisticians can be overwhelming for scientists and professionals. People who are adept at working with statisticians are more effective and successful.” For more information and registration: 913-541-1220; olatheinfo@k-state.edu

• Stability Guidelines for Bio Manufacturing – April 24, 11:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. “Our lunchtime webinar is designed to keep you in the know when it comes to stability guidelines.” For more information and registration: 913-541-1220; olatheinfo@k-state.edu

People

Cliff Becker passed away unexpectedly on Dec. 30, 2023. He was vice president of new campus development for the American Royal and also previously served as the Chairman of the Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City. He had over 39 years of experience in ag media, previously working for Farm Journal and Vance Publishing Corporation.

Lenexa-based Ceva Animal Health appointed a new executive to oversee the company’s global operations in the United States and Canada. Brad McCollum is now senior vice president of Ceva’s business operations in North America. His role will include overseeing marketing and health-related product sales for companion animals, poultry and swine. Previously, McCollum led the global animal health company Zoetis as senior vice president of pet care for its US business. He spent more than 11 years rising in the ranks at Zoetis before joining Ceva. McCollum started his career at Pfizer, where he developed a background in the pharmaceutical industry as the associate director of operations.

Kansas Secretary of Agriculture Mike Beam announced that Josh McGinn has been named Assistant Secretary of Agriculture at the Kansas Department of Agriculture. McGinn began serving in the role on January 22.  McGinn will have significant role in the legislative agenda for KDA, including research and analysis of legislative issues and developing and supporting the legislative priorities of the agency. He will also assist the Secretary on development of agricultural and rural development issues and policies that can improve the landscape for Kansas agriculture. “KDA is fortunate to have the leadership and expertise that Josh brings to our team,” said Secretary Beam. “His agriculture background and commitment to public service makes him a perfect fit for KDA. In particular, his work in the state’s Office of Rural Prosperity provides a perfect foundation for the support we offer the state’s farmers, ranchers, and agribusiness.”

The National Association of Farm Broadcasting (NAFB) has named Colleen Callahan as its interim executive director. The former NAFB President and Hall of Fame awardee owns and operates Colleen Callahan Consultancy. She previously served as the director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and was the Illinois director of USDA’s Rural Development office.

Stacy McBride has been named Husch Blackwell Strategies’ first executive vice president of federal government affairs. She previously was a principal. Before coming to Husch Blackwell Strategies, she was the chief of staff to then-Sen. Roy Blunt, R-Mo., and was staff director on the Senate Rules Committee.  Source: Agri-Pulse Communications

Kendall Hodgson of Kansas has been selected as the new chairman for the United Sorghum Checkoff Program. Other officers include Vice Chairman Ethan Miller, Missouri; Treasurer Kim Baldwin, Kansas; and Secretary Zack Rendel, Oklahoma.

Steph Carlson has joined the National Pork Producers Council as assistant vice president of state and national relations. In her role, she will serve as the primary NPPC point of contact for state pork organizations. Carlson will be based in Des Moines, Iowa. An Iowa native, Carlson earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science from Iowa State University. In addition to her professional achievements, Steph is currently a First Lieutenant and serves as the company executive officer of Alpha Company, 1-133d Infantry Battalion in the Iowa Army National Guard.

Missouri Soybeans recently hosted the Missouri Soybean Association board in Jefferson City for their annual meeting. During the meeting, the Association selected several farmer-leaders to step up in leadership positions to serve Missouri’s soybean growers. To lead MSA, Renee Fordyce was elected to serve as the president for 2024. Fordyce is a soybean grower and rural health professional from Bethany, representing District 1 on the board. Fordyce has been a board member for over ten years, serving in various leadership roles, including vice president. This is her first term serving as the Association’s president. Brooks Hurst, a Tarkio and District 1 farmer, was also re-elected as the Association’s vice president. Rounding out the board’s leadership, Cody Brock from District 2 was selected as secretary, and Garrett Riekhof, representing District 4, was voted to serve as treasurer.

Latest News & Updates in KC Agriculture - December 2023

Developments

Missouri Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn and Missouri State Veterinarian Dr. Steve Strubberg have approved livestock movement papers for nine special reindeer. According to a release from MDA, Santa Claus from The North Pole applied for the permit this week, providing proof of the healthy herd through a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection signed by licensed veterinarian Dr. Hermey Elf. Team leader, Rudolph, underwent additional testing to prove he’s the most famous reindeer of all. “We love to see Santa recognize so many on his nice list throughout Missouri this year,” said Director Chinn. “Santa’s elves have been working hard to provide toys for all children. We’re excited that our team gets to ensure all of Santa’s reindeer are ready for flight and gifts get delivered across the Show-Me State this Christmas.” The permit approves Mr. Claus, his sleigh and nine reindeer for flight starting the night before Christmas, with a few exceptions for early deliveries. “Our veterinary staff works to allow timely movement of healthy Missouri animals across Missouri and the U.S.,” said Dr. Steve Strubberg. “Our team also recommends the reindeer consume healthy rations of Missouri grass hay. We encourage Missourians to make hay available for Santa’s reindeer, in addition to milk and cookies for Santa.”

Kansas State University has received more than $16.3 million to study the interplay between agricultural management and local environmental conditions. K-State researchers Dorivar Ruiz Diaz and Brian Olson will work with Sotirios Archontoulis from Iowa State University. The study will investigate the impact of crop, soil, and water management on soil microbial communities crucial for agroecosystem functions in the U.S. Corn Belt and Great Plains. Most of the funding ($7.6 million) will come from the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research. Bayer Crop Science has contributed $4.6 million, and additional support has been provided by various institutions. Over five years, the research will assess the impacts of cover crops, nitrogen use, crop rotation, tillage, and water management on soil microbial communities, with a commitment to extending support for five years beyond the initial grant period. “This project will generate much-needed knowledge on the synergies and trade-offs of multi-level management factors improving agricultural productivity with conservation management across soils and environments, including water, nutrient cycling, soil carbon and soil health,” Ruiz Diaz said. Enhancing current soil health management practices requires a profound understanding of the connections among crop yields, soil properties, and soil water content. “This integrated field research and modeling effort will provide insights critical to improving field operations and sustaining vibrant agroecosystems across diverse landscapes,” Kathleen Boomer, FFAR's scientific program director, said. Source: Agri-Pulse Communications

The Kansas Department of Agriculture, in conjunction with the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has identified highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in two egg layer facilities — one in McPherson County and one in Rice County. This marks five cases of HPAI in Kansas this fall; since the start of the outbreak in 2022 there have been 21 cases of HPAI in Kansas. KDA is working closely with USDA–APHIS on a joint incident response at the affected premises in the two affected counties. According to KDA’s animal health officials, the facilities both increased their biosecurity upon the initial HPAI outbreak in 2022 and have been continuously monitoring their flock. Upon noticing clinical signs of HPAI in their birds, they immediately contacted KDA. The affected premises were placed under quarantine and the birds will be humanely depopulated and disposed of in an approved manner to prevent the spread of the disease.

The November survey from Purdue University and the CME Group showed farmer views of the ag economy improved for the second straight month. The Ag Economy Barometer showed a 5-point increase up 12% over the same month last year. The positive trend is credited to improved perceptions of financial conditions and prospects among agricultural producers. The November survey revealed a 12-point increase in the Index of Current Conditions while the Index of Future Expectations rose by 2 points. The Farm Financial Performance Index reached 95, up three points from October, a rebound from its low point in the spring. “Farmers' expectations regarding financial performance have improved, with fewer producers expecting worse performance than a year ago,” said James Mintert, the barometer’s principal investigator and director of Purdue University’s Center for Commercial Agriculture. The Farm Capital Investment Index rebounded to 42 in November, up seven points from October, reflecting changing perspectives on the investment climate. Notably, the primary reason for favorable conditions shifted from “strong cash flows” to “higher dealer inventories,” indicating a potential moderation in farm equipment price rises. Top concerns for the upcoming year include higher input costs (32%), rising interest rates (26%), and lower crop/livestock prices (20%). A notable shift in concerns occurred throughout the year, with fewer producers worrying about higher input costs and more expressing concern about rising interest rates and lower crop/livestock prices. The November survey coincided with Congress voting to extend the 2018 farm bill as part of a deal to avoid a government shutdown.

USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Agriculture Future of America formalizing a partnership to promote the common goals of strengthening the future competitiveness and sustainability of the U.S. agriculture industry by preparing more young people for careers in agriculture. “This MOU comes at a key time to enhance USDA’s involvement with AFA and its leadership development and education mission,” said Secretary Vilsack. “This agreement reinforces USDA’s commitment to preparing students for future careers in agriculture with an emphasis on federal sector employment. It supports USDA’s Equity Action Plan, helping to remove barriers for all Americans; ensuring America’s food system is equitable, resilient, and prosperous; and connecting AFA to those interests and resources through USDA programs and initiatives.” USDA and AFA will continue to collaborate on both short- and long-term initiatives to inspire and prepare youth, foster leadership development, and link these young leaders with career opportunities in food, agricultural science, natural resources, and related fields. Under the MOU, USDA commits to advancing opportunities for students involved in AFA to participate in USDA programs, including internships. AFA will provide occasions for USDA to meet with students to share information about these opportunities. The MOU will be administered by USDA’s Office of Partnership and Public Engagement, which develops and maintains partnerships focused on solutions to challenges facing rural and underserved communities and connects those communities to the education, tools, and resources available to them through USDA programs and initiatives. “Our collaboration with USDA signifies a shared vision for the future of American agriculture,” said Mark Stewart, president and CEO of AFA. “This MOU is not just a document; it’s a commitment to bridging the gap between talent and opportunity. This agreement reinforces our belief that connecting young leaders with USDA initiatives will enrich their careers and contribute to a more resilient and competitive agriculture industry.”

The Next Generation Scholarship program is part of an effort by Kansas corn farmers to support students in post-secondary education who will make an impact in the corn and agriculture industries. Kansas Corn invests in students by awarding $1,000 Next Generation Scholarships. NCGA and state partners, including Kansas, use a Consolidated Scholarship Application. This allows students to fill out one application that qualifies them for both the Kansas Corn Next Generation Scholarship and NCGA scholarships. Application deadline is January 31, 2024. Learn more here.

Chipotle Mexican Grill announced it is investing in Greenfield Robotics a company founded on making regenerative farming more efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable by leveraging the latest advances in AI, robotics and sensing technologies, and Nitricity, a company looking to lower greenhouse gas emissions by creating fertilizer products that are better for fields, farmers, and the environment. These minority investments are being made through Chipotle’s $50 million Cultivate Next venture fund.

The Agricultural Retailers Association recently honored Mid Kansas Cooperative with its Retailer of the Year award in front of more than 600 attendees during the 2023 ARA Conference & Expo. In making the presentation, ARA said MKC believes the keys to success lie in four core values: safety, courtesy, image, and innovation. With these values at the center of their approach to customer service, sustainability, operational excellence, and more, MKC achieved this top honor. “By recognizing the full potential of its people, investing in their leadership development, and empowering them to exceed their customers’ expectations, MKC embodies what this award seeks to celebrate,” noted ARA President & CEO Daren Coppock. “ARA and the agriculture industry as a whole has benefited greatly from MKC’s leadership and involvement on the ARA Board of Directors, Public Policy Committee, and legislative fly-in events with lawmakers in Washington, DC.” The Retailer of the Year award, sponsored by Bayer and supported by The Scoop magazine, annually honors an ARA member retailer company or individual that displays effective employee relations, environmental stewardship, customer reliability, industry leadership, and more. “We're very proud to be named ARA's Ag Retailer of the Year,” said MKC President and CEO Brad Stedman. “We want to share this distinction with our member-owners and employees; they're the ones who made this possible. Especially our employees, they create the customer experience. This award is a recognition of MKC's commitment to being an organization that moves the mark in our geography and will continue to serve the needs of farmers in the future.” MKC is a full-service farm cooperative offering a complete line of supplies and services for both farm and urban customers throughout Kansas. With a current membership of more than 11,000 members, MKC specializes in grain, agronomy, energy, feed and risk management. More than 600 employees play an important role in the growth and success of the cooperative.

Events

Kansas Corn Growers Association Annual Meeting takes place January 25, for all KCGA members: The meeting gets under way at 2 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn at 3320 S 9th St, Salina, Kansas. Annual Meeting Agenda: Resolutions discussion and approval; Board elections: Positions up for election in 2024 are the West Central, Central and East Central districts; Association Update and Issues Briefing. The Kansas Corn Symposium program will continue following the KCGA Annual Meeting.

The 99th Missouri Lawrence County Soils and Crops Conference is 6-9 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024, in Mount Vernon at the Southwest Research, Extension and Education Center. The free event will feature a variety of topics of interest to livestock producers, says Tim Schnakenberg, University of Missouri Extension agronomy specialist. “Feed sources have been scarce this year, and there is lots of discussion on how to get by with less,” says MU Extension state beef nutrition specialist Eric Bailey. He will give tips on “What To Feed When You Have No Feed.” MU Extension agricultural business specialist Wesley Tucker will offer practical ways to “bulletproof the beef operation to make it more resilient.” Adam Bowman of the Missouri Forage and Grassland Council will address how regenerative grazing can make an operation more drought-tolerant. Southwest Missouri Cattlemen’s Association and the Mount Vernon Chamber of Commerce will provide a free rib-eye steak dinner for those who preregister early. Mid-Missouri Bank of Mount Vernon, Ozark Electric Cooperative and Lawrence County Farm Bureau provide financial support. There is no charge to attend, but attendees must preregister by Jan. 2, 2024, with the MU Extension Center in Lawrence County to order a meal and reserve a seat. Preregister here or call 417-466-3102.

People

The Kansas Cooperative recently inducted two honorees into its Hall of Fame. Tim Daugherty, a member of the Agricultural Business Council, has had a long career in cooperatives, beginning in 1972 when he served as a college intern with Farmland Industries. After several years of working on the family farm, Tim accepted the role of Assistant Manager of the cooperative in Olathe, KS. He left that role to enter the General Management Program at Farmland Industries and went on to manage cooperatives in Fayette and Sweet Springs, MO. In 1985, Tim accepted a role as a Management Consultant at Farmland Industries and spent the next 20 years serving in various roles throughout the Midwest. Some of those roles included: Director of Farmland’s Training School, Vice President of Management Information Services, Regional Vice President for Kansas, Colorado and Utah, and Vice President of North American Grain. Tim joined Land O’Lakes in 2010 as a member of their Ag Customer Team (ACT). Although his core territory was Kansas, he spent considerable time in Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado, Missouri and Nebraska. The primary emphasis of his work was to help cooperatives grow and succeed. Also inducted, Dave Christiansen served as President and CEO of Mid Kansas Cooperative for 16 years. He served over 40 years in the cooperative system. Dave's industry experience began in 1973 when he became employed by the cooperative in Great Bend, KS. His past positions include Vice President of Ag Inputs for Panhandle Co-op in Scottsbluff, NE, and President/CEO of Ag Partners Co-op in Hiawatha, KS. Dave has served on a number of boards and advisory councils over his 40 plus years in the cooperative system. He served as chairman of the United Benefits Group as well as Producers Ag LLC, and Farm Kan LLC. He served on the boards for the Arthur Capper Cooperative Center at Kansas State University, KFSA (now ProValue), CHS Member Advisory Committee and McPherson College Board of Trustees.

Todd Hays of Monroe City was re-elected as vice president of the Missouri Farm Bureau Federation during the organization’s 109th annual meeting on December 5 at the Lake of the Ozarks. He was first elected vice president in 2010 and previously served on the Board of Directors’ District 2 seat representing northeast Missouri. Before serving on the board for six years, Hays was appointed MOFB Young Farmers and Rancher (YF&R) chairman in 2003, serving in an advisory capacity on the board for one year.

Hometown Envoy Briefs Council

Caleb Wurth (Left) and Greg Krissek (Right)

One of the points Caleb Wurth, who grew up in Kansas City and graduated from Kansas State University, made during his presentation at the Kansas City Agricultural Business Council’s annual meeting and December luncheon, was that South East Asia “gets along with everyone.” The region has lower trade tariffs, and its international trade leadership, said Wurth, “believes low tariffs help everyone.”

This is important to Wurth because he serves as the regional director of Southeast Asia and Oceana for the U.S. Grains Council, a non-profit organization that promotes the global use of U.S. corn, barley, sorghum and related products including ethanol and distiller’s dried grains with solubles. In this capacity, Wurth identifies and addresses all relevant trade, technical and policy factors relevant to building and maintaining the market for U.S. coarse grains and co-products for the countries stretching from Myanmar to New Zealand. Among his remarks about the area he noted that several of the nations in the region were emerging as serious trading partners. In an informal Q&A presentation format, moderated by Greg Krissek, retired CEO of Kansas Corn, Wurth reviewed the purpose and outcome of a “roadshow” the U.S. Grains Council took recently to four major markets in his portfolio.

With stops in the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia, traders and end-users in the region had the opportunity to learn more about U.S. corn and co-product supply and demand; U.S. crop harvest and quality; and distiller’s dried grains with solubles uses and value in terrestrial species and aquaculture. Ohio Corn and Wheat representatives also joined the roadshow, sharing grower perspectives with attendees.

In addition to the feedstuffs, the Southeast Asia and Oceania office is also actively developing ethanol markets. As the region rapidly advances from bicycles to motorbikes to automobiles, its demand for a variety of low cost fuels and fuel oxygenates greatly expands. As a result, Southeast Asia and Oceania are home to tremendous blending potential for U.S. ethanol.

Ag Business Group Elects Seeber, Larson as 2024 Leaders

Ron Seeber (Left) and kristie Larson (right)

December 14, 2023, KANSAS CITY, MO:   Ron Seeber, who serves as CEO Kansas Agribusiness Retailers Association, Kansas Grain and Feed Association, and Renew Kansas Biofuels Association was elected chairman of the Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City at the group’s annual meeting held December 14.   Kristie Larson, Strategic Relationship Manager, The DeBruce Foundation, was elected vice chairman.

Ron Seeber assumed his current position with the three associations in 2017 after working for the groups since July 2008. An expert in state and federal legislative affairs, Seeber also worked for Senator Bob Dole in policy and political capacities.  He has spent his entire career in the regulatory arena. 

Kristie Larson is the Strategic Relationship Manager of the DeBruce Foundation where her focus is on developing strategic, innovative partnerships with stakeholders across the nation. Prior to this role, Larson dedicated her professional career to the advancement of agriculture education through work in a variety of industry segments and organizations including the American Royal Association, National Pork Board, and Dairy Farmers of America.

The Council’s Board of Directors is composed of 20 persons who serve staggered two-year terms. Those elected to the Board for a two-year term commencing January 1, 2024, were: 

• Davin Althoff, Missouri Farm Bureau

• Tom Brand

• Chelsea Good, Livestock Marketing Association

• Terry Holdren, Kansas Farm Bureau

• Chris Klenklen, Missouri Dept. of Agriculture

• Jackie McClaskey, American Royal

• Amber Oerly, Fulcrum Global Capital

• Paul Schadegg, Farmers National Company

• Matt Teagarden, Kansas Livestock Association

• Robin Wenneker, Wenneker Properties

And, to fill a mid-term vacancy, the Council elected Sarah Kolell, American AgCredit, to a one-year term.

Those directors elected for new terms join these incumbent directors:

• Eric Bohl, Bockorny Group, Inc.       

• Justin Gilpin, Kansas Wheat

• JJ Jones, Cultivated Conversations

• Jackie Klippenstein, Dairy Farmers of America

• Haley Larson, Kansas State – Olathe

• James Nygren, Frontier Farm Credit/Farm Credit Services of America

• Emily Schuckenbrock, Agriculture Future of America

• Brad Tolbert, John Deere

• Bill Vaughn, Merck Animal Health

Bob Petersen and Erica Venancio continue to serve as staff members for the Council, Petersen as the executive director and Venancio as director of member services. 

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Members of the Agricultural Business Council include over 700  individuals associated with the food and agribusiness sector.  Agribusiness continues to be one of the largest business sectors in the Kansas City region, accounting for 8 percent of the workforce and contributing 22 percent of the gross regional product. 

KC Forum to Feature International Expert on Precision Ag

Dr. James Lowenberg-DeBoer

Prof. James Lowenberg-DeBoer, an internationally recognized expert on precision agriculture, will be a featured speaker at a Feb. 13, 2024, Forum in Kansas City focused on agricultural innovation. The goals for the forum, according to Dustin Johansen, chair of the Ag Business Council of Kansas City, are to celebrate and highlight ag innovation in the Midwest. Johansen, a senior executive with Farm Journal, said the day-long program hosted by the Council will feature an array of experts looking at the promise technology and innovation are bringing to agriculture.

“We are thrilled to have someone of Dr. Lowenberg-DeBoer’s stature as one of our keynote speakers,” Johansen said. Prof. Lowenberg-DeBoer holds the Elizabeth Creak Chair in Agri-Tech Applied Economics at Harper Adams University in the United Kingdom and was co-editor of the journal Precision Agriculture. Lowenberg-DeBoer is widely recognized for his work which focuses on the economics of agricultural technology, especially precision agriculture and agricultural robotics. His presentation will identify the most practical and profitable agri-tech innovations for 2024 based on the precision agriculture track record for the last 30 years.

Before joining Harper Adams University, Professor Lowenberg-DeBoer was on the faculty at Purdue University where, from 2004-2015, he served as the Associate Dean and Director of International Programs in Agriculture. He is the editor and co-author of the “Precision Farming Profitability” textbook. Lowenberg-DeBoer’s research and extension work is founded in hands-on experience in agriculture. He grew up on a corn, soybean and cattle farm in Iowa and ran his own farming operation in Iowa in the 1970s producing mainly lamb, wool, alfalfa and other forages. He continues to be active in Iowa agriculture, owning and managing a farm producing corn and soybeans.

For more information, and to register for the Ag Innovation Forum, click here.

KC Ag Innovation Forum to Feature Microsoft Executive

Ranveer Chandra

Ranveer Chandra, who is the Managing Director for Research for Industry, and the CTO of Agri-Food at Microsoft, will be a featured speaker at the Ag Business Council of Kansas City’s Ag Innovation Forum on Feb. 13, 2024.

The goals for the forum, according to Dustin Johansen, chair of the Ag Business Council, are to celebrate and highlight ag innovation in the Midwest. Johansen, a senior executive with Farm Journal, said the day-long program hosted by the Council will feature an array of experts looking at the promise technology and innovation are bringing to agriculture.

“Ranveer Chandra is recognized as one of the leading figures in new ag technology and has an established track record of bringing new concepts to fruition,” said Johansen. He noted that Ranveer has led Microsoft development of different technologies to bring internet connectivity to the middle of farms.

Ranveer started Project FarmBeats at Microsoft in 2015. “FarmBeats is a way to get a lot of data from the farm and merge all of that data with the different data that exists in the cloud to come up with unique insights for agriculture,” he has said.

Ranveer has presented his research to the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, had his work featured by Bill Gates in his GatesNotes, and was selected by Satya Nadella as one of 10 projects that inspired him in 2017. As part of his doctoral dissertation, Ranveer developed VirtualWiFi. The software has over a million downloads and was among the top 5 downloaded software released by Microsoft Research. It is shipping as a feature in Windows since 2009.

He was recently recognized by the Newsweek magazine as one of America’s 50 most Disruptive Innovators (2021). Ranveer has an undergraduate degree from IIT Kharagpur, India and a PhD from Cornell University.

For more information, and to register for the Ag Innovation Forum, click here.

Energy Challenges For Agriculture

At its November monthly meeting, Camille Abrams, Senior Vice President Finance for energy, processing and food ingredients at CHS offered Agricultural Business Council members an overview of the energy challenges facing the agricultural industry. This breakfast meeting at the Sheraton Crown Center has become a tradition, held during the Agriculture Future of America’s Annual Leaders Conference.

In her initial remarks, Abrams described CHS as a leading farmer-owned energy, agronomy and grains and foods cooperative with a footprint covering 50 states and 65 countries. CHS supplies energy, seed, crop nutrients, crop protection products, grain marketing services, production and agricultural services, animal nutrition products, foods and food ingredients, and risk management services. The company operates petroleum refineries and pipelines and manufactures, markets and distributes Cenex® brand refined fuels, lubricants, propane and renewable energy products.

CHS’s activity in energy came into sharp focus in 2007, Abrams noted, when Congress authorized the Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA), which was intended to increase U.S. energy security, develop renewable energy production and improve vehicle fuel economy. She explained that renewable diesel economics are policy dependent; and policies make biofuels cost-effective to produce.

Over the past two decades, Abrams said, “sustainability” has been used in a variety of contexts. The word has evolved significantly from environmental consciousness to where the nation is today. CHS calls it a “holistic approach to management that includes efficiency, profitability, risk management, social impacts and long-term success.”  Simply put, environmental conservation and sustainability now mean doing more with less, increasing yields and profits, protecting human resources, providing community support and fostering inclusion and diversity.

Abrams offered these insights as to what it takes to decarbonize fuels. Over the past six months, a CHS sustainability team has conducted an assessment of perceptions and needs related to sustainability. In its push for renewable diesel, E15 and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), CHS is reporting that renewable diesel is a low carbon drop in fuel; it can be used up to 100% in existing engines; and it can be made from used cooking oil, tallow and vegetable oils. When E15 is approved, it could increase demand by up to 50%. The team also confirmed that low carbon farming practices and carbon capture at ethanol plants will lower carbon emissions. CHS is also looking into the future potential of ethanol as a sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

Digging Deeper...

Multiple challenges face U.S. schools and school boards around the country. Technology-adaptation, teacher salaries, operating budgets rank high among concerned educators, parents, taxpayers, culture warriors and marginalized groups. But as November’s observation of American Education Month and American Education Week (November 13-17) draws to a close, it is encouraging to see that one curriculum initiative in particular is gaining traction and picking up momentum:  Early ag education.
By Dennis McLaughlin, McLaughlin Writers LLC – Sources: Agriculture Education – Kansas State Department of Education; National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA); Kansas Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom (KFAC); Agriculture Education on the Move™ (AEOTM); Missouri Farmers Care,

Ag Education On the Move in Elementary Schools

Agriculture had been a mainstay subject in America’s educational system for decades. The Morrill Act of 1862 made way for the formalization of college curricula that would help the U.S. become the giant it is in crop science and animal health. The 1917 Smith Hughes Act provided federal aid to states to develop pre-collegiate vocational education in agricultural and associated industrial trades and home economics. The continuing accomplishments and character of FFA alums are testament to the effectiveness to these early curricula.

Up until the 1920s when most Americans lived on farms or in small towns, school books were full of agricultural references. Farming and farm animals were a familiar part of nearly every child's life. However, when the farm population began to shrink during the 1920-1940s, emphasis on ag education waned. Educators focused on agriculture as an occupational specialty, rather than an integral part of every student's life. Agriculture education was mainly offered to those few students wanting to make a career of agriculture.

Nevertheless, during this period, a small nucleus of educators and others persistently pushed for more agriculture in education. They recognized the interlocking role of farming, food, and fiber production with environmental quality topics like maintaining a clean water supply and preserving and improving forests and wildlife habitat. They kept education in agriculture and the environment alive during a period when overall public interest was decreasing.

In the 1960s and 1970s, these educators realized the need for quality materials. Many excellent films, books, and classroom aids were financed and produced by businesses, foundations, nonprofit groups, and associations, as well as state and federal agencies. There was, however, little coordination of effort or exchange of ideas among the groups. And no central point for national coordination.

In 1981, USDA invited representatives from agricultural groups and educators around the country to meet in the Capitol to discuss agricultural literacy. A national task force was selected to coordinate with USDA to help states launch their own programs. This initiative became known as Agriculture in the Classroom (AITC).

AITC is managed by USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), which is headquartered here in Kansas City, MO. It serves nearly 5 million students and 60,000 teachers annually through workshops, conferences, field trips, farm tours, and other educational activities. AITC programs address a variety of issues and ag industry concerns, including: 

• Science literacy

• Agricultural careers

• Nutrition

• Pre-service and professional develop opportunities for teachers

The strength of AITC comes from its grassroots organization and the fact that educators are very much a part of the movement. Giant strides have been made since 1981. Agriculture in the Classroom is regarded as a refreshing and flexible educational program designed to supplement and enhance the teacher's existing curriculum.

Ag Ed Moves To The Front Burner

USDA remains actively involved in promoting agricultural education and preparing students for careers in food, agricultural science, natural resources, and related fields. Earlier this month Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack addressed students, agricultural educators, and guests at the opening session of the 96th National FFA Convention and Expo. He was there to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with FFA formalizing a partnership to prepare more students for careers in food, agricultural science, natural resources, and related fields.

In June 2023, USDA announced a $262.5 million investment in institutions of higher education to foster the next generation of diverse agricultural professionals across the nation. In March 2023, USDA announced several actions to expand support for and access to the school meal programs, including awarding $50 million in grants that will increase collaboration between schools, food producers and suppliers.

The Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City has been following investment and developmental efforts of the agricultural colleges at the University of Missouri and Kansas State University. Both schools can brag that their ag, veterinary and food programs and research accomplishments rank them among the top 20 institutions worldwide.

Last month, Dr. Ernie Minton, KSU’s Ag dean, updated the AgBiz Council on K-State’s Ag Innovation Initiative. With a price tag of $208 million, it is the largest single infrastructure undertaking in the history of the university. It signals the beginning of a food, agriculture and natural resources infrastructure overhaul in Manhattan and throughout the state. “The project will set a new bar for multidisciplinary research and innovation,” said Dr. Minton, “and continue to elevate K-State’s status among ag schools in the U.S.”

The Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute (FAPRI) at the University of Missouri’s College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) has developed an international reputation as a reliable source of information and analysis on everything from farm commodity market outlook to the impacts of farm bills, trade disputes and biofuels – among others. FAPRI is well known for its projections for the farm economy. It develops 10-year projections for thousands of indicators that affect the food and agricultural sectors of the U.S. economy.

But Something Else Is Going On

Elementary students around the state are learning about the role of agriculture in their lives this fall with Agriculture Education on the Move™ (AEOTM). Through AEOTM, an educational program of Missouri Farmers Care, educators spend time in classrooms across Missouri helping elementary students build agricultural literacy.

During the ten-week program, students learn about crops, livestock, soil and water conservation, nutrition and careers in agriculture. The STEM-focused lessons and curriculum meet state learning objectives in the areas of science, math, social studies and language arts. Hands-on activities are incorporated into each lesson, providing fun and interactive ways of learning as students make soybean germination necklaces, corn plastic, butter, feed rations, soil profiles and more. Through the curriculum, students learn about Missouri farm families and how the dedication and year-round efforts of these farmers and ranchers impact their lives.

“Agriculture education in elementary classrooms is a valuable experience for all involved,” says Heather Fletcher, AEOTM program director. “Students, teachers and even AEOTM educators and partners are connecting to the world around them, where their food comes from and how agriculture affects daily life. We value each participating school and look forward to returning year after year.”

Hundreds of Missouri FFA students partner with Missouri Farmers Care to teach AEOTM™ to students in their local school districts. Through this opportunity, FFA members serve as educators, gaining hands-on experience in the classroom and as advocates for agriculture in their community. Missouri Farmers Care’s AEOTM program equips FFA partners with the curriculum, training and materials to teach in their local communities. In 2023, 535 FFA members in 83 FFA chapters joined the effort to educate Missouri’s third-graders about the agriculture industry.

“We appreciate each Missouri FFA student serving as an Ag Education on the Move™ FFA Partner Educator,” Fletcher adds. “These high school students serve as role models for the elementary students they are teaching, sharing their knowledge and passion for agriculture. At the same time, they are building communication, management and leadership skills they will use throughout their careers.”

AEOTM will engage over 10,000 third-grade students through ten weeks of in-classroom programming this year, more than doubling the program’s reach since 2021.

“The entire community benefits from Agriculture Education on the Move™ as local students experience the thrill of germinating seeds, understanding the basics of how their food is produced and opening their eyes, many for the first time, to the agriculture all around them,” explains Ashley McCarty, Missouri Farmers Care executive director. “The connections the students make this semester will help inform their perspectives as future consumers and help them see the potential of agriculturally-related careers.”

AEOTM is funded through Missouri Farmers Care, a coalition of more than 40 Missouri agriculture groups. Missouri soybean farmers and their checkoff and the MFA Oil Foundation support the program, along with contributions from Missouri Corn Merchandising Council, FCS Financial, MFA Incorporated, Missouri Beef Industry Council and the Missouri Fertilizer Control Board. 

Kansas elementary schools are also teaching agriculture. The program is designed to help students understand the importance of agriculture in their daily lives and to encourage them to pursue careers in agriculture. Additionally, the School-Based Agricultural Education (SBAE) program is delivered to over 13,000 students engaged in 220 ag ed initiatives by over 265 instructors in school districts across the state.

The Kansas Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom (KFAC) has created a lesson-plan kit that offers a free lesson and activity to incorporate agriculture into a classroom. In 2022, KFAC sent out more than 1,000 K-5th grade kits to educators across Kansas, reaching over 465 schools and 25,000 students. This KFAC lesson-plan is proving to be boon for new teachers. “We plan to continue expanding our reach by adding kits for grades 6-8 and 9-12 and increasing the number of kits we send,” notes the Foundation.

More initiatives were launched in 2023. One of them is Career Awareness for Rural Agricultural Sciences Through Tower Gardening – also known as Project CARAT, a vertical gardening curriculum to teach high school students various agricultural sciences career-related skills. Project CARAT is a partnership between the K-State Rural Education Center in KSU’s College of Education and KFAC. It is funded by a $150,000 grant from NIFA.

School-Based Agricultural Education is considered essential by Kansas State Department of Education. And it is determined to make sure “agricultural education prepares students for successful careers and a lifetime of informed choices in the global agriculture, food, fiber and natural resources systems.”