Latest News & Updates in KC Agriculture - January 2023

Developments

The American Farm Bureau Federation signed a memorandum of understanding with Agriculture Future of America.  According to an AFBF release, the MOU will foster “cross-promotional efforts of organizational objectives and events.” “We are excited to join with AFA and share Farm Bureau’s resources and programs with college students and young professionals who are the next generation of leaders in agriculture,” Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvallsaid. “The collaboration we’re announcing today will benefit both of our organizations and help ensure a bright future for American agriculture.” AFA President and CEO Mark Stewart said the two organizations are at a “unique crossroads of mutual investment in building leaders to strengthen the future of our industry.”

U.S. Grains Council held its official ribbon-cutting ceremony in India earlier this month to mark the opening of its South Asia office there. The first new office for the organization since 2010, the expansion of a full-time office in this key growing ethanol market was made possible through extra grant funding from the Kansas Corn Commission. Kansas Corn CEO, Greg Krissek joined USGC staff and board members at the opening to celebrate the event. “Kansas Corn has supported USGC efforts for exports around the world of corn in all forms for many years,” said Krissek. “Four years ago we agreed to partner on establishing a U.S. Grains office in India, which in 2023 will become the most populous nation in the world. In the same time period, India has become a top five importer of US ethanol. While still a complicated market to penetrate, having USGC staff on the ground in India will provide US farmers the best opportunity to enter the market when India’s needs come to the forefront-as they most certainly will in the coming years.” India is a top customer of U.S. ethanol for industrial use, noted Cary Sifferath, USGC Vice President.

The Kansas Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for the 2023 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. Funds for the program are awarded to the agency by the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service. The grant funds are in turn granted to projects and organizations to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops by leveraging efforts to market and promote specialty crops; assisting producers with research and development relevant to specialty crops; expanding availability and access to specialty crops; and addressing local, regional, and national challenges confronting specialty crop producers. Specialty crops are defined by the USDA as “fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops, including floriculture.” Applications are due to KDA no later than 5:00 p.m. CST on March 15, 2023. For more information, please download and carefully read the 2023 Kansas Request for Applications from the KDA website: agriculture.ks.gov/specialtycrop.

Oklahoma State University Extension specialists say several factors are to blame for record-high egg prices. The sticker shock is expected to continue through the first quarter of 2023. At this time in 2021, eggs were $1.47 a dozen, in 2022 they were $1.93 a dozen and today it at $4 a dozen. USDA data shows egg prices typically jump during the holiday season, and the cost of eggs has historically increased during times of economic strain such as the recession in 2008 and the spread of COVID in 2020. However, today’s record prices reflect the nationwide impact of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza and a booming demand for egg consumption. In states where HPAI decimated commercial poultry flocks in 2022, the demand for laying hens outpaced egg supplies. It takes months for laying hens to grow to sexual maturity, start laying eggs and provide a consistent supply at peak production. The worldwide egg demand also relies heavily on the fact that eggs are an essential ingredient in many prepared foods. While eggs are more budget-friendly than beef, pork, turkey or chicken, the rapid climb of egg demand in 2022 does not run parallel to a price hike in other markets.

Livestock Marketing Association has applauded U.S. Congressional Representatives Mark Alford (R-Mo.), Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.), and Dusty Johnson (R-SD) for introducing the Amplifying Processing of Livestock in the United States (A-PLUS) Act. If enacted, the bill would remove an outdated regulatory barrier and allow livestock auction market owners to own or invest in small and regional meatpackers. The Administration, Congress, and the livestock industry agree there is a need for increased packer competition and additional processing capacity. Currently, livestock auctions owners are not able to own, invest, or participate in the operation of a packing plant or meat marketing business due to a dated Packers and Stockyards Act restriction. This prohibition falls under a 102-year-old law and predates the current, transparent method of selling livestock at an open auction to the highest bidder. The A-PLUS Act is essential in removing this unnecessary barrier to cattle industry investment in the packing sector. The bill would allow livestock auction owners to own or invest in cattle and hog packers smaller than the current ten largest packers.  For more information about the A-PLUS Act contact Chelsea Good, Vice President of Government and Industry Affairs & Legal at cgood@lmaweb.com or 816-305-9540.  

Corn farmers, industry representatives, and guests from across the state gathered in Jefferson City January 25, 2023 for the Missouri Corn Growers Association annual meeting and legislative day. The morning kicked off at the Capitol Plaza Hotel with MCGA’s annual meeting, where Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe provided the keynote address. Following the annual meeting and luncheon, growers visited the State Capitol to discuss the importance of Missouri’s corn and ethanol industries with legislators and their economic impact on the state. “With farmers becoming a shrinking minority and many new faces in this year’s legislature, the event provided the chance to have a voice with elected officials here in Jefferson City,” noted MCGA president Clint Stephens.

Missouri Department of Agriculture director Chris Chinn announced that 22 youth groups from across Missouri were awarded grants from MDA’s 2023 Building Our American Communities grant program. Eleven local chapters of the National FFA Organization and 11 Missouri 4-H clubs statewide have been awarded funds for their community service projects this year. “Missouri FFA and 4-H programs continue to enrich and cultivate a strong passion for agriculture and service in our youth,” said Director Chinn. “These groups demonstrate leadership, generosity, and personal growth through their projects. Their hard work inspires me and does not go unnoticed. I applaud each FFA chapter for ‘Living to Serve’ and each 4-H club for devoting their ‘hands to larger service’ every day.” Each of the 2023 awardees will receive $500 toward their projects, which may include upgrades or additions to existing facilities, grounds or buildings, such as fairgrounds, parks or community centers used by local organizations.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) filed a lawsuit (January 19, 2023) against the Environmental Protection Agency challenging the Biden administration’s final “Waters of the U.S.” (WOTUS) rule. NCBA previously filed technical comments on this rule, highlighting the importance of maintaining agricultural exclusions for small, isolated, and temporary water features, like ephemeral streams that only flow during limited periods of rainfall but remain dry the majority of the year. Regulating these features at the federal level under the Clean Water Act disrupts normal agricultural operations and interferes with cattle producers’ abilities to make improvements to their land.

Kansas attorney general Kris Kobach announced his support of legislation intended to prevent Kansas farmers from selling land to foreign entities. Kansas Senate Bill 100 would prohibit any non-U.S. citizen from buying Kansas real estate in certain areas. The bill would also give the attorney general authority to investigate real estate transactions believed to involve foreign agents. Exemptions to the bill would include property located in Johnson, Sedgwick, Shawnee or Wyandotte counties, along with property acquired before July 1, 2023. Kobach said these counties were excluded from the legislation because the concern is about foreign interference with agriculture, not urban businesses. 

Farm leaders will meet in Washington, February 2, to increase pressure on Congress to demand a more aggressive U.S. trade agenda that includes new free trade agreements and better access to foreign markets through lower tariffs. The umbrella group Farmers for Free Trade is organizing an event with members of the Corn Refiners Association, National Corn Growers Association, National Milk Producers Association, CoBank, North American Meat Institute, National Association of Wheat Growers, and National Association of State Departments of Agriculture. “With a new Congress, new committee leaders, and newly confirmed ag trade officials at USTR and USDA in place, the U.S. ag community is taking advantage of an important moment to push for regaining a foothold in international trade,” says Farmers for Free Trade. “The United States has not completed a trade agreement that provides access to a new market in over a decade, while competitors in South America, Europe and Asia have been completing deals that preference their ag products.” Source: Agri-Pulse Daybreak, January 30, 2023

Events

The Kansas Department of Agriculture will host virtual workshops February 6-10, 2023, to assist farmers’ market vendors and managers, and also for those wanting to sell food products directly to consumers. The workshop series includes five online Lunch and Learn sessions. “Over the past two years, we’ve seen an increase in people’s enthusiasm for locally sourced food, and these workshops will address common questions and concerns for farmers and small businesses who are embracing these opportunities to reach local consumers,” said Londa Nwadike, food safety specialist with KSRE and the University of Missouri. Registration for the February virtual workshops is now open. The cost is $5 per participant. Register at www.fromthelandofkansas.com/FMWorkshop. Dates and topics:

• Monday, Feb. 6, noon to 1:00 p.m.: Accepting EBT/SNAP and Double Up Food Bucks

• Tuesday, Feb. 7, noon to 1:00 p.m.: Meat and Poultry Regulations; Kansas Value Added Meats Lab

• Wednesday, Feb. 8, noon to 1:00 p.m.: Kansas Sales Tax Information

• Thursday, Feb. 9, noon to 1:00 p.m.: Food Safety Regulations; Kansas Value Added Foods Lab

• Friday, Feb. 10, noon to 1:00 p.m.: Kansas Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program

Kansas State University Olathe announces a new lineup of animal health professional development events coming up, most of which offer both online and in-person experiences. Here are the next two events as well as a link to the full schedule.

• Animal Health Regulatory Affairs 101, Feb. 22-23 –  This two-day, interactive workshop is an introductory course on the regulatory aspects of animal drug and vaccine development. The workshop provides attendees with an understanding of the veterinary drug approval processes. Content is designed for those tasked with developing and maintaining an animal health company’s product portfolio and involved with a company’s regulatory strategies. This course provides 11.5 contact hours of veterinary continuing education as certified by Kansas State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. 

• Pesticides in Animal Health, March 29-30 – This workshop provides a practical approach to getting pesticide products approved and keeping them in the market post approval, while avoiding common pitfalls and challenges faced along the way. The course provides 13 contact hours of veterinary continuing education as certified by Kansas State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.

NAMA is welcoming exhibitors to St. Louis, April 26-28, for its 2023 Agri-Marketing Conference. Organizers suggest exhibitors use NAMA’s Connection Point that “connects exhibitors to clients straight to you.” From top leaders to agri-marketers to students—exhibitors gain access to the professionals who are shaping our industry today and in the future. More information about Connection Point at www.nama.org/connection-point.html.

The 61st annual Western Farm Show takes place February 24 – 26 at the American Royal Complex, in Kansas City, Mo.  The show is produced by the North American Equipment Dealers Association. For more information, contact Jami Applegate, Farm Show manager, 816-561-5323. japplegate@naeda.com.  

People

Rep. Jason Smith, R-Mo., has been selected to serve as chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, which writes tax laws and oversees trade policy. Smith was selected by the GOP steering committee for the post, beating out Adrian Smith of Nebraska and Vern Buchanan of Florida.

At its recent annual meeting the Missouri Soybean Association re-elected Matt Wright to serve as president.  Wright is a soybean grower from Emden representing District 3 on the board. Wright has been a board member for more than 10 years, serving in various leadership roles including vice-president. “I feel incredibly honored to be elected to serve another year at the helm of the Missouri Soybean Association,” said Wright. “As the policy branch of the organization, I am continuously impressed with the advocacy our board and staff puts forth and the work we get done for our growers across the state. As the leader of MSA, my goal is to create a strong future for soy.”

Ag Council Gets Briefed on NDAs and Dealing With Government

Stinson LLP hosted the Agricultural Business Council this month as it kicks-off the 2023 Luncheon Meeting agenda with the Annual Legal Update. Stinson partner Jim Selle moderated a panel of specialists delving into the intricacies of intellectual property, patent and trademark protection laws. The panel also discussed the legal climate surrounding litigation involving the EPA, FSA, and Department of Natural Resources.

Selle provided an overview of legal issues that are emerging as agriculture innovation develops. “A lot of money is going into technology,” he said. That has created a unique ‘supply chain’ of activity and players: 1) Inventors, 2) Borrowers, investors, 3) Contractors, manufacturers, suppliers, 4) Sellers, 5) Buyers, lessors, licensees.  

All these links in the chain call for extra agreements and limited or capped warranties. “It is getting complicated,” said Penny Slicer, a Stinson partner and registered patent attorney involved with patent, trademark and intellectual property protection. Her comments on non-compete and non-disclosure  agreements were timely, as the Federal Trade Commission has proposed a ban on non-disclosure agreements  that could outlaw terms in some 30 million contracts, pre-empting such laws in every state. A final ruling is some 18 months off. Inside the Beltway, odds are the proposal is unlikely to become law.

Bob Thompson, partner at Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP, and Jean Paul Bradshaw II, partner at Lathrop GPM, shared experiences on “doing business with government.” Thompson explained that mistakes or even misrepresentations that might be the subject of a civil lawsuit in a private transaction, can in fact be a “federal case” when that representation is made to a federal agency under a penalty of perjury.   The difference is that if someone cuts corners or misrepresents something in a private setting, they get sued.    When you are dealing with the government, you get indicted instead.   Bradshaw noted that federal “prosecutors really don’t know what goes on, on a farm.” But they will try to make their case based on the premise that it “looks wrong.”

On the issue of clean water as it is defined and regulated in WOTUS, both presenters voiced their worries that EPA could actually prosecute violations against clean water statutes occurring through negligence as having occurred through criminal intent. On the positive side, they think the Biden Administration will not be as aggressive as the Obama Administration was on the matter. They also are concerned that many agencies regulating agriculture, waters and land are headed by advocacy groups rather than genuine, trained environmental scientists.

Digging Deeper...

Earlier this month in Las Vegas, the Consumer Electronics Show convened its 56th tradeshow extravaganza. CES was first held in 1967 in New York City attracting 17,500 attendees and more than 100 exhibitors. The first keynote speaker at the time was Motorola chairman Bob Galvan who introduced radios and televisions with integrated circuitry. The technology was described back than as a “monolithic integrated circuit” set onto one small piece of semiconductor material. Silicon. Engineers called it a chip. This year’s CES event featured around 4,000 exhibitors, attracted almost 200,000 attendees and occupied 2.2 million square feet. CES is the second biggest tradeshow in the world, and spotlights technologies including mobile hardware and accessories, energy and power, 5G technology, robotics, IoT/sensors, AI and cybersecurity.  But something else lately has grown its profile at CES: Agriculture Technology, and its footprint is getting bigger.  

By: Dennis McLaughlin, McLaughlin Writers LLC – Sources: National Geographic Society, Washington D.C.; McKinsey & Company, Chicago, Illinois; Future Farmer Magazine, Fargo, South Dakota; Business Facilities Magazine, December 2021 and 2022 issues; Kansas Bioscience Authority 2010 Progress Report.

Farm Tech Is Getting To Be Big Business

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that agricultural technology is gobbling up exhibit space at CES and other such events and forums known more for their high tech displays of electronic products such as radio receivers, television sets, MP3 players, video recorders, DVD player, digital cameras, camcorders, personal computers, video game consoles, telephones and mobile phones.  Agriculture, however, has always been a leader in innovation, notes Future Farmer, a Fargo, ND-based ag tech magazine. Always, in this context means 12,000 years of human civilization.

The National Geographic Society maintains that “agriculture triggered such a change in society and the way in which people lived that its development has been dubbed the Neolithic Revolution that took root 12,000 years ago.” Traditional hunter-gatherer lifestyles that humans had followed since their evolution, explains National Geo, were swept aside in favor of permanent settlements and a reliable food supply. “Out of agriculture,” it goes on, “cities and civilizations grew, and because crops and animals could now be farmed to meet demand, the global population rocketed—from some five million people 10,000 years ago, to more than eight billion today.” In other words, when early humans didn’t have to spend all day hunting and foraging for food, they could begin to cultivate societies, communities, the arts, scholarship and science and technology.

In a more timely perspective on the agricultural industry, McKinsey & Company describe it as having radically transformed over the past 50 years: “Advances in machinery have expanded the scale, speed, and productivity of farm equipment, leading to more efficient cultivation of more land. Seed, irrigation, and fertilizers also have vastly improved, helping farmers increase yields. Now, agriculture is in the early days of yet another revolution, at the heart of which reside data and connectivity. Artificial intelligence, analytics, connected sensors, and other emerging technologies could further increase yields, improve the efficiency of water and other inputs, and build sustainability and resilience across crop cultivation and animal husbandry.”

The agricultural and food technology industries have been undergoing tremendous change, reports Business Facilities  as trends develop in the way consumers value food safety and security and an older population seeks healthier diets, reports Business Facilities, a pioneer magazine publisher is the site selection industry.  “Companies in this industry sector are looking to adapt to these trends by spending billions on research, new product development and supply chain optimization,” say its editors.

Ag Biz Council Keeps Pace

The future of food, beverage and agriculture production has never been more exciting, though maybe exacerbating at times. Farmers are facing labor shortages, climate change and environmental protection regulations that require action, all while trying to feed a growing global populace. As they work to overcome these challenges, one key strategy they deploy is the introduction of advanced ag innovation into their farming practices.

The Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City is doing its part to keep the ag industry apprised of developments and advances. It will be presenting its 7th Ag Innovation Forum, February 8, 2023, at the Kansas City Downtown Marriott. (Registration information available here.)

Ag Adapts

Several ag tech-focused startups are active in the region. But many local pioneer ag companies are also adapting ag tech to improve their conventional operations. And they have been at it for quite some time. Enough so, that the greater Kansas City area has been tagged as the Silicon Valley of Ag Tech.

Last year in ranking the Top Ten U.S. cities having the various attributes and resources that might attract companies and startups to relocate there, Business Facilities listed Kansas City, MO, as No. 9 among cities considered to have “The Best Tech Hubs Growth Potential.”  The magazine also ranked Kansas City No. 10 among cities that had “The Best Business Climate.”

Kansas City’s rankings are impressive considering the competition, which included some heavy weights like Dallas-Fort Worth, Seattle, Phoenix, Atlanta, Charlotte, Nashville and Indianapolis. But this is not Kansas City’s or the state of Kansas’ first rodeo. Back in 2010 the Kansas Bioscience Authority – created in 2004 through a bipartisan effort on the part of a Republican-controlled legislature and a Democratic Governor and Secretary of Revenue – was ranked No. 5 in the nation by Business Facilities for its biotechnology strength.

In 2010 the magazine’s Editor-in-Chief Jack Rogers said, “Biotechnology strength is one of the most important and fiercely competitive rankings categories. Kansas clearly has shown that it is a biotech force to be reckoned with, and has staked a claim to a leadership position for years to come.” He also noted that KBA’s stewardship of a $581 million biotech investment fund [in its first five years of existence] was “a uniquely focused effort that has made Kansas a national  center for animal health research, a leader in pharmaceuticals and an emerging player in bioenergy.”

Couple that recent history to the upcoming commissioning of the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility and the inauguration of Kansas State University’s Innovation Center, and you’ve got pretty good argument to further claim the region as the “Silicon Valley of Agriculture.”

Council Welcomes Several Newcomers to its 2023 Board of Directors

The Ag Business Council of Kansas City is pleased to welcome several new members to its board of directors.  Here is an introduction…

Justin Gilpin

Justin Gilpin became Kansas Wheat CEO September 1, 2009. Gilpin is a graduate of Kansas State University’s Milling Science program within the Department of Grain Science and Industry. Before joining Kansas Wheat, Gilpin worked at General Mills, Inc., where he was a wheat buyer for three flour mills. He executed daily wheat market orders on the floor of the Kansas City Board of Trade, worked with flour sales, elevator and mill management, and sourcing wheat from various classes. He has been involved in a number of U.S. Wheat Associates committees, is past-chair of the Kansas City Board of Trade Cash Basis committee, Wheat Quality Council board Member and is an adjunct research scientist for Kansas State University's Department of Grain Science and Industry. He currently serves as Chairman of Heartland Plant Innovations and works daily leading efforts at the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center on the KSU campus.

Brad Hamilton

Brad Hamilton is Vice President of Supply Chain & Logistics at Seaboard Foods where he is responsible for procurement, planning, third-party logistic services, inventory, analytics, transportation, and export logistics. Over the course of his 23-year career at Seaboard, he has held various leadership roles in financial analytics, information services, margin management and strategic planning. Seaboard Foods is a large division of Seaboard Corporation and a vertically integrated pork producer and processor.

He is an alumnus of Northwest Missouri State University where he earned B.S degrees in both Finance and Computer Management Systems.  He is a native of Burlington Junction, MO, a small farming community in the northwest part of the state.  He and his wife, Andrea, have four children. In his spare time he enjoys running/training for races with his wife, landscaping, construction projects around the house and supporting their children in various activities.  He and his family are active in their church, as well.

Haley Larson

Dr. Haley Larson is an assistant professor of animal health at Kansas State University's Olathe campus. Dr. Larson earned her B.S. in Animal Science and Ph.D. in Ruminant Nutrition from the University of Minnesota.  Her graduate studies focused on understanding how manipulation of growth and fermentation patterns in feedlot cattle effects animal performance.  While completing her degree, Larson began working as a senior scientist for Cargill Animal Nutrition and Health. 

At Kansas State, Dr. Larson teaches several animal health graduate-level courses within the department of applied and interdisciplinary studies as well as the College of Veterinary Medicine’s diagnostic medicine and pathobiology department.  She leads courses on regulatory affairs for animal health products, research strategies for new product development, zoonotic pathogens in the food chain, as well as others. 

James Nygren

James Nygren is a Legislative Affairs Officer for two Farm Credit Associations – Frontier Farm Credit, based in Manhattan, Kansas, and Farm Credit Services of America, headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska. Prior to his position he worked for state and federal elected officials covering Agriculture, Energy, Environment, Immigration and Trade issues. Nygren received his B.S. and J.D. from the University of Nebraska and his M.P.S. at George Washington University.

Emily Schuckenbrock

Emily Schuckenbrock is the Senior Program Manager of Leader Competency Development with Agriculture Future of America (AFA). AFA is a national organization headquartered in Kansas City focused on shaping leaders to make a positive impact in the food and agriculture industry. Emily has designed and executed key programming for the organization including AFA Leader Institutes, virtual learning and young professional events, and the organization’s flagship experience, AFA Leaders Conference. Emily has worked to support the development of thousands of young leaders in agriculture and food by building opportunities that connect seasoned leaders, professional development learning models and trending industry topics to the next generation of talent.

Emily has a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Education and Leadership and a master’s degree in Agricultural Leadership, Communication and Education, both from the University of Missouri-Columbia. Emily moved to Kansas City, MO in 2019 and quickly fell in love with the area, settling in the  Northland. When Emily isn’t on AFA time, you’ll find her strolling downtown Parkville with her fiancé, Austin, or visiting her folks on the family’s century farm in Bowling Green, MO. 

Jackie McClaskey

Dr. Jackie McClaskey was named President and CEO of the American Royal Association in December 2022. She has served as President of New Campus Development for the American Royal since January 2019 leading all aspects of the project to build a new home. McClaskey served as the Kansas Secretary of Agriculture from 2013 to 2019 following service as Assistant and Deputy Secretary in the Kansas Department of Agriculture. Prior to joining to the Department of Agriculture, McClaskey served as an assistant dean for the College of Agriculture at Kansas State University for 13 years. In addition, McClaskey is a co-founder and president of Roots and Legacies, Inc., an agricultural services and leadership consulting firm.

A native Kansan, McClaskey grew up on a diversified family farm near Girard. Her family was involved with livestock as well crop production. She earned a bachelor's degree in agriculture economics from Kansas State University, a Master of Science in agricultural economics from Texas A&M University, and a Ph.D. in Animal Science from Kansas State University in January 2014. Her Ph.D. dissertation analyzed foreign animal disease response policy. McClaskey, her husband Mike Matson and their two Australian Shepherds, Lady and Scout, live in Manhattan.

Jim Staiert

Jim Staiert is the Associate Administrator of the USDA Economic Research Service (ERS) and has been with ERS since August 2020.  Jim began his career at USDA in 1990 as an Economist with the Agricultural Cooperative Service conducting research of the financial performance of the nation’s 100 largest agricultural cooperatives. In 1995, Jim took a position with the USDA Office of Budget and Program Analysis (OBPA) where he served as a Program Analyst providing advice to the Office of the Secretary on legislative, regulatory, and budgetary matters of the Department. During his time with OBPA, his area of responsibility included the mission areas of Rural Development (RD), Farm and Foreign Agricultural Service (FFAS), Farm Production and Conservation (FPAC), Natural Resources and Environment (NRE), and the Marketing and Regulatory Programs (MRP). In 2018, Jim became the first Budget Director for the newly created Farm Production and Conservation mission area.  In this role, Jim helped to merge 3 existing budget offices to create a consolidated budget office for the entire mission area, managing $70-90 billion in Federal resources each fiscal year. Throughout his career, Jim has had a hand in implementing 5 Farm Bills. 

Jim was born and raised on a mixed-use family farm (dairy, hog, corn, soybeans) in Southwest Iowa. Jim attended Iowa State University and received undergraduate degrees in Finance and Agricultural Business as well as a Master’s in Economics. Jim and his wife Ana moved to Kansas City, MO in May 2021, after spending about 30 years in Washington, DC.  Jim and Ana enjoy travel and have traveled extensively to Europe and South/Central America.

Digging Deeper...

Kansas State University is emerging as the world’s foremost location for global food systems and bio-security innovations. It is also a premier economic driver for the state of Kansas. The growth of federal, state and private sector infrastructure and talent asset acquisition over the past decade has positioned K-State, and the region, as undisputed leaders. Rollout of a new initiative – Innovation Centers for Grain, Food, Animal and Agronomy Research – will solidify the position.  

Dennis McLaughlin, McLaughlin Writers LLC – Sources: Terry Holdren, CEO, Kansas Farm Bureau; Kansas State University, College of Agriculture: Ernie Minton, Ph.D., Dean; Kerry Wefald, Senior Director of Development; Jason Ellis, Ph.D., Head, Department of Communications and Agricultural Education

Center of the Global Food Universe

Proposed facility infrastructure and curriculum developments at Kansas State University College of Agriculture, along with the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility’s imminent commissioning next year, will put the state of Kansas and Kansas State University squarely at center stage of global agriculture science, food animal production and food processing. “Every day we put our hands and minds together,” says the College of Agriculture, “to work on better ways to achieve sustainability, feed billions, build agribusinesses and improve lives with thoughtful, well researched use of plants and animals.” A new initiative – the Innovation Centers for Grain, Food, Animal and Agronomy Research – will surely expedite K-State’s ascendancy toward that goal.

But global leadership isn’t new for the College of Agriculture. The school was selected to lead four of the nation’s 21 Feed the Future Innovations Labs that draw on the ability of top U.S. universities and developing countries’ research institutions to tackle some of the world’s greatest agricultural and food security challenges. K-State led teams to focus on wheat genomics, sorghum and millet, reduction of post-harvest loss, and sustainable intensification.

Speaking of leadership, Richard Linton’s appointment as president of Kansas State University last year is both prescient and practical as it relates to implementing K-State’s Innovation Centers enterprise.  Dr. Linton is strongly connected to land-grant institutions, which is one of the reasons why he applied to become the next president of K-State. He earned his bachelor's degree in biology, master's degree in food science and doctorate in food science from Virginia Tech. From 1994-2011, he was a food science faculty member, director and founder of the Center for Food Safety Engineering and associate director of agricultural research programs at Purdue University. He served as department chair of food science and technology at The Ohio State University from 2011-2012 and as dean of North Carolina State University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

“Richard Linton has proven himself as a forward-thinking leader who knows how to seize opportunities in higher education’s rapidly evolving landscape,” said Regent Cheryl Harrison-Lee, chair of the Kansas Board of Regents. “He shares the Regents’ strategic vision of higher education as a powerful force uniquely capable of revitalizing our economy. We are excited to have him as president of K-State and watch him lead the university into the future.”

Recipe For The Future

The Innovation Centers’ blueprint calls for several facility renovations as well as the relocation of Shellenberger Hall – the milling, baking, and feed science building – between Call and Weber Halls. This will improve the technology needed, says Dr. Ernie Minton, dean of the College of Agriculture. “What we hope to do is really stimulate an even greater degree of multidisciplinary collaboration.”

The impetus behind this endeavor is a 3:1 funding match set up by the state of Kansas. If the university raises $75 million in private gifts, lawmakers in Topeka will consider awarding the college $25 million – over and above a recent allocation of $25 million. The deadline for raising the qualifying funds was extended to mid-December. As of late November, KSU’s Ag College had raised $55.5 million toward the goal.

“We believe we will have the funds by the deadline,” a spokesperson for the College of Agriculture noted.  “While the change in date gives K-State additional time to apply to acquire state funds, it does not really change anything about the College of Agriculture’s needs or the anticipated positive impacts these projects will help create.”

At the moment optimism reigns. But Kansas Farm Bureau CEO Terry Holdren suggests keeping the cork in the champagne bottle for the time being. The grant funding program is still a competitive funding process, he explains, meaning the grant is awarded based on the merits of the application. “Competitive grants are discretionary,” he says, “and if the granting agency doesn’t like any of the proposal’s components, it is not legally obligated to award a grant at all.” However, Holdren maintains that once pledges reach $75 million, the Sunflower State’s agriculture industry is primed to make its case for the matching grant.

Certainly, the timeline to raise the matching funds has been aggressive, says the college. “But we are used to overcoming challenges,” school officials and staff explain. “We began developing strategic plans for similar infrastructure projects prior to COVID, but with the pandemic our plans were delayed. We are focused on the here and now though, this is a unique opportunity with these matching funds, and where it can take the College of Agriculture – its researchers, faculty and students – into the future.”

Ag Industry Support

Agriculture is the largest economic engine in the state generating more than $70 billion into the state’s economy, and, according to Holdren, numerous ag businesses, organizations and associations have formed coalitions that intend to lobby strenuously.  Kansas Farm Bureau recently underscored its advocacy for KSU’s Innovation Centers for Grain, Food, Animal and Agronomy Research initiative with a $5 million pledge over five years – the largest donation in KFB history.

“We’ve known for a long time that the facilities at the country’s first operational land grant institution needed updating,” said outgoing KFB president Rich Felts at KFB’s annual meeting earlier this month. “We’re excited to come alongside Dr. Richard Linton and others to make an investment in our industry, our state and future K-State students to ensure the university is a global leader in agriculture.”

One College of Agriculture official said, “The Kansas Department of Commerce will evaluate the proposal for the qualifying funds, and we hope they will get back to us by the end of the calendar year. Our understanding is that other universities will submit proposals for their own projects, but we are confident in our proposal for these infrastructure projects and the future of the K-State College of Agriculture.”

What’s the Plan?

Source: Kansas State University Foundation  

It is important to know that Kansas State University is a land grant university with associated leadership expectations in food, agriculture and natural resources. Moreover, Kansas is a top-10 agricultural state in the United States as measured by the most recent Census of Agriculture’s “Value of Agricultural Products Sold”. The Department of Grain Science and Industry at K-State offers degree programs that are one-of-a-kind globally serving the global milling, baking, animal and pet food industries. The Department of Animal Sciences and Industry boasts the largest number of undergraduate majors among academic departments at K-State.

Launching the Innovation Centers for Grain, Food, Animal and Agronomy Research calls for the creation of signature research and innovation partnership centers that will attract additional corporate enterprises as partners. These innovative facilities and program evolutions will harness K-State’s unique strengths in:

• Grain science and industry

• Animal/food sciences

• Innovation in precision agriculture

These inter-related projects will diversify Kansas’ value-added food and agricultural economy, expand growth in the state’s top economic sectors, and support key pillars of K-State’s Economic Prosperity Plan by attracting businesses to the state throughout the entire value-added food chain.

How It’s Structured

The infrastructure of this project – both in its configuration and its functionality – will capitalize on collaboration between university scientists and embedded industry partners. Beyond elevating activities within K-State’s top-ranked College of Agriculture the innovation centers will draw the brightest minds from the Colleges of Arts and Sciences, Engineering, Health and Human Sciences, and Veterinary Medicine.

Target Outcomes

• Economic growth: Strengthen corporate attraction, job creation, entrepreneurship and the resilience and economic viability of Kansas’ agriculture industry sector.

• A specialized workforce: Increase the number of undergrad and graduate degree holders across broad food system and agricultural disciplines, as well as micro-credentialing for the existing agriculture sector workforce.

• Expanded research funding: Increase large, multi-disciplinary, multi-institutional awards in support of research, innovation deployment, extension service outreach and workforce training.

• Public-private partnerships: Make K-State a model for public-private partnerships in food and agricultural systems innovation, including “hoteling” embedded private sector and federal research personnel in new and renovated facilities.

• Research centers growth: Enhance existing and grow the number of major centers funded by NSF, USAID and other federal sources, further building K-State’s reputation, network and footprint in global food systems.

• New solutions: Provide innovative production and business solutions for our Kansas stakeholders.

• Industry growth: Increase student recruitment, adding to the talent pipeline serving the economic needs of the state. 

Expected Benefits

Research universities drive new discovery, knowledge and deployment of innovation. This, in turn, catalyzes economic development, job creation and industry resilience. With Kansas as the undisputed center of activity in creating next-generation agricultural technologies and practices, global agricultural companies will choose to locate in Kansas.

Latest News & Updates in KC Agriculture - December 2022

DEVELOPMENTS

Missouri Department of Agriculture director Chris Chinn and Missouri State Veterinarian Dr. Steve Strubberg approved state livestock movement papers for nine reindeer. Mr. 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. The permit approves Mr. Claus, his sleigh and nine reindeer for flight starting the night before Christmas, with a few exceptions for early deliveries. “The MDA team strives to enable timely movement of healthy animals across Missouri and beyond,” said Dr. Strubberg. “Our team of veterinarians also recommends the reindeer eat a healthy ration of Missouri grass hay. We encourage Missouri farmers and ranchers to make hay available for Santa’s reindeer, in addition to milk and cookies for Santa.” Reindeer approved on the flight manifest: Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen, Rudolph.

Nearly 400 members of the Kansas Farm Bureau attended the organization’s 104th annual meeting in Wichita earlier this month. Outgoing KFB President Rich Felts was honored at Sunday’s banquet that featured remarks from U.S. Senator Jerry Moran. Other activities included a host of agriculture-related workshops and speakers, including a keynote from Gregg Doud, former Chief Agricultural Negotiator with the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. U.S. Senator Roger Marshall and U.S. Congressional Representative Tracey Mann spoke during a policy update, which also included briefings from Kansas Farm Bureau staff on issues important to agriculture.

Washington, DC-based NDP Analytics, a marketing data firm, has published The Economic and Social Contributions of the Animal Health Industry, which details the growth of the animal health industry over the past three years and documents the value and role that the companies that produce animal medicines play in the U.S. economy and beyond.  With nearly $14 billion in sales of medicines at home and abroad, the U.S. animal health industry directly supports 24,094 jobs and accounts for more than $1.6 billion in wages and $1.5 billion in taxes. Animal health products also contribute to the economic activity of other industries such as veterinary services, animal production, meat and dairy production, and pet services. When combined with animal health, these industries generated $608.1 billion in output and more than 1.5 million jobs in 2021. More information is available at www.ndpanalytics.com.

Dairy Farmers of America's CoLAB Accelerator applications are open to agricultural technology startups looking to grow their business and knowledge of the dairy industry. “We are looking for ag tech companies with applications or technologies related to any portion of the dairy value chain, including but not limited to animal health, farm data management, herd health and management, supply chain optimization and sustainability,” said Matt Musselman, DFA’s COO, Farm Service. DFA’s CoLAB Accelerator is a 90-day, immersive program that accelerates and grows ag-tech startup businesses through mentoring and educational programming. DFA has partnered with various startups across the dairy value chain that provide valuable services to our family farm-owners, nutritious dairy-based products to consumers or helpful insights to our business. More information: https://colab.dfamilk.com

Kansas Department of Agriculture partnered with the U.S. Livestock Genetics Export, Inc., along with the Idaho, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, and Tennessee departments of agriculture to participate in a trade mission to Mexico on October 25-28, 2022. Participants of the trade mission were Kansas cattlemen Dirck Hoagland of J&N Ranch, Leavenworth, and Daniel Mushrush of Mushrush Red Angus, Strong City. The focus of the mission was to build relationships and expand international marketing opportunities for purebred beef cattle genetics in Mexico. In 2021, Kansas agriculture exports to Mexico totaled $1.91 billion. Mexico is Kansas’ number one trade partner, accounting for nearly 44% of total agricultural exports. For information about upcoming trade mission opportunities contact Suzanne Ryan-Numrich at Suzanne.Numrich@ks.gov or 785-564-6704.

According to the U.S. Grains Council’s 2022/2023 Corn Harvest Quality Report, the 2022 U.S. corn crop entering the market channel has a higher average test weight, higher protein concentration and lower total damage relative to each quality factor’s average of the previous five crops. Cool temperatures early in the year caused delays in planting but May’s warm weather allowed farmers to catch up and the crop has since matured at a near-average pace. Areas of the western Corn Belt continued to endure higher heat and lower than expected precipitation. These factors contributed to reduced yields in this year’s crop but accelerated maturation and the clear weather ensured a timely harvest, which has maintained crop quality.

Citing concerns about the environment, food security and the fate of family farmers, Missouri legislators have filed several bills that would restrict foreign ownership of agricultural land. Both Democratic and Republican senators have pre-filed bills ahead of the January start of the 2023 Missouri General Assembly session to halt foreign purchases of Missouri farmland.  Missouri lawmakers voted in 2013 to allow up to 1% of the state’s farmland to be held by foreign entities. China owns more than 40% of the foreign-owned acreage in Missouri. Italy is the leading owner of Missouri farmland with twice as many acres as any other country. 

EVENTS

The benefit auction held during the Cattlemen's Banquet at the Kansas Livestock Convention raised $42,000 for three organizations. More than 500 KLA members and guests attended the banquet and auction.  Items sold to benefit the KLA Political Action Committee (PAC) brought $31,950, with the money to be used to help elect candidates for the state Legislature who support the Kansas livestock industry. The high-selling item for KLA PAC was a bull sale credit donated by Gardiner Angus Ranch of Ashland and purchased by Prairie Valley Feeders of Long Island for $7,000.  

In anticipation of calving season, the Kansas State University Department of Animal Sciences and Industry and K-State Research and Extension are planning a series of calving schools in January. The program will outline the stages of the normal calving process, as well as provide tips on how to handle difficult situations and when to intervene to assist the cow or heifer. Presenters also will demonstrate proper use of calving equipment on a life-size cow and calf model.  “Our goal is for producers to leave better prepared for calving season,” said A.J. Tarpoff, K-State extension veterinarian. Meeting dates and locations are as follows: January 3, Greensburg; January 10, Ellsworth; January 12, Fredonia; and January 19, Mankato. More information: www.KSUBeef.org.  

USDA has mailed survey codes to all agricultural producers across the U.S. with an invitation to respond online to the 2022 Census of Agriculture at www.agcounts.usda.gov . The ag census provides the nation’s only comprehensive and impartial agriculture data for every state, county and territory. The data collected not only influences business and supply chain logistics, it also informs policy and program decisions that directly impact producers, ag operations and communities across the U.S.  Only one response is necessary, whether provided securely online or by mail. All responses are due February 6, 2023. For more information, go to nass.usda.gov/AgCensus.  

K- State Olathe is holding an Animal Health Regulatory Affairs 101 Workshop February 22-23, 2023. This two-day workshop provides attendees with the regulatory insights necessary to make smarter business decisions in management and leadership in the animal health industry. The program provides an overview of essential regulatory guidelines, terminology, concepts and applications in the day-to-day animal health business management. This course provides 11.5 contact hours of veterinary continuing education as certified by KSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Learn more at www.olathe.k-state.edu.

K-State Olathe is holding a Pesticides in Animal Health Workshop, March 29-30, 2023. This workshop provides a practical approach to getting pesticide products approved and keeping them in the market post-approval, while avoiding common pitfalls and challenges faced along the way. This course provides 13 contact hours of veterinary continuing education as certified by K-State's College of Veterinary Medicine. Learn more  www.olathe.k-state.edu.

PEOPLE

Cultivating New Frontiers in Agriculture, an international ag development organization, has selected Mike Espy as the new chair of the CNFA Board of Directors. Espy served as secretary of agriculture during the Clinton administration and before that was a member of Congress representing Mississippi’s second congressional district. Espy succeeds Elin Miller, who will continue to serve as a member of the CNFA Board.

U.S. Representative Glenn Thompson (R-Pa) has been elected by the House Republican Steering Committee as the next chairman of the House Agriculture Committee. Thompson, a longtime member of the committee and its current ranking member, will step into the role the same year the farm bill is scheduled to be drafted. He said in a statement that he was "honored" by the appointment. "The political landscape in Washington may be fractured, but as chairman, I will prioritize the needs of our producers and rural communities — the backbone of this country," Thompson said in a statement. "We will keep our foot on the gas to deliver principled solutions, robust oversight, and a farm bill that is responsive to the needs of the country’s farmers, ranchers, and foresters.”

Farmer-leaders of the United Soybean Board (USB) elected Meagan Kaiser as the 2023 Chair and nine additional grower directors to serve on the Executive Committee during the USB December Meeting in St. Charles, Missouri. Kaiser brings significant experience and first-hand knowledge of USB’s strategic focus. She previously served as Strategic Plan Task Force Chair and oversaw a nearly 20-member committee that created the current strategic plan that prioritizes sustainable soy solutions for global and domestic customers while ensuring value and profitability for U.S. soybean farmers. Approved at the 2021 USB July Meeting with unanimous support, the Strategic Plan Task Force served a critical role in creating the plan, engaging farmer-leaders and value chain partners and ensuring it reflected the future state of the industry.

The National Academy of Inventors named Randall Prather to its 2022 Fellows Program. Prather, a Curators’ Distinguished Professor in the University of Missouri College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources, joins the ranks of an elite group of academic inventors recognized for their research and intellectual property contributions. Dr. Prather is the director of the National Swine Resource and Research Center (NSRRC) at MU, which recently earned an $8 million expansion grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The center on MU’s campus has become the go-to source for genetically modified pigs used by researchers across the United States and other countries to study various diseases that impact humans, including retinitis pigmentosa, spinal muscular atrophy and cystic fibrosis, the most common genetic mutation affecting Caucasian adolescents in North America.

Mayor Q Outlines KC Priorities

Commenting that the Agricultural Business Council’s Annual Meeting and Luncheon in December has become something of a regular event for him in his first term in office, Mayor Quinton Lucas expressed his fondness for the ag industry and the people in it. He described his interaction with ag businesses and groups as open, instructive, honest and productive. The mayor also noted that his association with agriculture has given him a better understanding of Land Grant colleges and a realization of how vital they are.

Mayor Lucas reported there are a lot of “good things happening” in Kansas City, not the least of them being the opening of the renovated, modernized KCI airport. He mentioned that soft openings of some aspects of the operations would be taking place within weeks. Then he guaranteed that all facilities, operations and services would be available – as scheduled – to handle the March Spring Break onslaught of family travel. “But,” asked the mayor rhetorically, “how can you be sure that will happen?” His answer: Because the 2023 mayoral primary election campaign gets underway in March. And the mayor is not about to renege on a campaign promise when he first ran for mayor in 2019 that the new KCI would be open by then.

The new airport is responsible in part for many opportunities emerging for Kansas City and the region.  Mayor Lucas pointed to the NFL Draft in April 2023 and the World Cup in 2026, among others. Kansas City is now in a position to attract more international flights, in particular trans-Atlantic flights. Regional growth in population and industry more than warrants increased direct and non-stop service across the Atlantic, the mayor said.

Calling it potentially his most important decision in his mayoral term thus far, Mayor Lucas hinted that selection a new police chief was close to being announced. (He remained mum while addressing Council members; but the next day it was announced that veteran Kansas City police officer Stacey Graves would be police chief.) The mayor has prioritized public safety. To learn more about policing, he has spent time  riding with police officers in a number of major cities around the country to understand what is involved in maintaining safe communities.   

Education is high on the mayor’s list of concerns and priorities. The city is pleased with the progress several school districts in the area are making.  Mayor Lucas wants the city to be more involved with community colleges and would like to see school districts collaborate more with community colleges and trade schools in an effort to offer a broader range of opportunities for students.

Another concern that needs attention is homelessness and affordable housing. Creating effective programs to deal with the situation, said the mayor, call for revising current policy that focuses too strongly on policing homelessness and raiding homeless communities. The challenge, he said, is not to study where high rise structures can be built. “We need to figure out ‘where we need to build’ affordable, single family housing.” Mayor Lucas suggests part of the solution might involve programs to rehabilitate existing housing.

Overall, Mayor Lucas is upbeat about the future of Kansas City and the region. “Things are going well,” he said.

Ag Business Group Re-Elects Johansen, Seeber as 2023 Leaders

(Left to right) Dustin Johansen and Ron Seeber

December 15, 2022, KANSAS CITY, MO:   Dustin Johansen, Senior Vice President,  Enterprise Solutions, Farm Journal, was re-elected chairman of the Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City at the group’s annual meeting held December 14.   Ron Seeber, who serves as CEO Kansas Agribusiness Retailers Association, Kansas Grain and Feed Association, and Renew Kansas Biofuels Association was re-elected vice chairman.

Johansen leads business development initiatives for Enterprise Solutions division of Farm Journal, driving revenue growth for data services, market research and custom projects for livestock and row crop industries. Previously, Johansen managed the Kansas City office of Osborn Barr Paramore and led the animal agriculture and equipment practices. He also spent nearly 20 years at Caterpillar, Inc. in equipment sales and dealer sales and marketing operations. Johansen was raised on a purebred Charolais operation in Tipton, Missouri and is a graduate of the University of Missouri – Columbia, where he currently serves as President of the CAFNR Alumni Association for the college.

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.

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, 2023, were: 

• Eric Bohl, Missouri Farm Bureau

• Justin Gilpin, Kansas Wheat

• Brad Hamilton, Seaboard Foods

• 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

 And, to fill a mid-term vacancy, the Council elected Jackie McClaskey, American Royal to a one year term.

The group also named Jim Staiert, associate administrator of USDA’s Economic Research Service as an ex-officio, advisory member of the Board of Directors.

Those directors elected for new terms join these incumbent directors:

• Julie Abrahamzon, Cargill Animal Nutrition

• Tom Brand, NAFB

• Chris Daubert, University of Missouri – CAFNR

• Kelly Farrell, Farrell Growth Group

• Terry Holdren, Kansas Farm Bureau

• Chris Klenklen, Missouri Dept. of Agriculture

• Kristie Larson, The DeBruce Foundation

• Paul Schadegg, Farmers National Company

• Matt Teagarden, Kansas Livestock Association 

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 350 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. 

Latest News & Updates in KC Agriculture - November 2022

DEVELOPMENTS

Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall has introduced the Fertilizer Stewardship, Utilization, Sustainability, Technology, Access, Innovation and Nourishment Act (SUSTAIN) which would revise the National Environmental Policy Act to modify the permitting process for mining. Sen. Marshall wants the SUSTAIN Act included in the next Farm Bill. “The United States has one of the strongest fertilizer industries in the world, but it would be even stronger if it wasn’t hindered by unnecessary bureaucratic rules that other countries don’t have to follow,” he said. “By eliminating federal fertilizer regulations in the upcoming farm bill, Congress can help our domestic fertilizer producers excel against competitors like Russia and China and provide our growers with affordable fertilizer.” Source: Agri-Pulse Communications, November 18, 2022.

To help support growth in agriculture, the Kansas Department of Agriculture is seeking a better understanding of the workforce needs among agricultural employers in the state. A lack of a skilled agriculture workforce is a top inhibitor of growth and expansion for many Kansas agriculture entities. To link the supply of human capital to the needs of Kansas agribusiness enterprises, KDA recently conducted a second Kansas Agriculture Workforce Needs Assessment Survey in 2022. The survey was analyzed by the Agricultural Land Use Survey Center at Kansas State University. The survey was emailed to over 25,000 businesses with 1,192 choosing to participate. Participating businesses employ 27,466 individuals in Kansas and 9,244 outside of Kansas. Respondents were asked to self-select the major category that applied to their business. “We are committed to growing agriculture in Kansas, and that centers around a reliable and capable workforce,” said Secretary of Agriculture Mike Beam.

USDA mailed survey codes to all known agriculture producers (nearly 3 million) across the 50 states with an invitation to respond online to the 2022 Census of Agriculture at www.agcounts.usda.gov .  By completing the survey, producers across the nation can tell their story and help generate impactful opportunities that better serve them and future generations of producers. Taken once every five years, the Census of Agriculture is the nation’s only comprehensive and impartial agriculture data for every state, county, and territory. Responses are due Feb. 6, 2023.

The Missouri Department of Agriculture announced that six projects will receive funding through the Missouri Agriculture Energy Saving Team – a Revolutionary Opportunity (MAESTRO) grant, funded through the U.S. Department of Energy. The competitive grant program will provide up to $10,000 per project. The reimbursement grant provides funding to address particular energy-related issues in K-12 school agriculture facilities in Missouri. The goal of the grant is to ensure valuable energy-efficient upgrades are being made in Missouri school districts. Students, and their instructors, can use funding to create a work plan that addresses energy-related issues, then execute the work plan under an instructor’s supervision. Funds may be used to pay subject matter experts to conduct energy audits or train students, purchase supplies, or pay for labor required to carry out the work plan. More information about the MAESTRO Energy Efficiency Grant can be found at www.agriculture.mo.gov.  

FDA has declared a lab-grown meat product safe for human consumption for the first time. In a news release, FDA said that after reviewing information from Berkeley, California-based UPSIDE Foods about the food product the company is making from cultured chicken cells, it has “no further questions at this time about the firm’s safety conclusion.” FDA said the company can bring its products to the market. But the facility in which the food is made will have to meet inspection standards from the FDA, USDA and the USDA-Food Safety and Inspection Service.

In a letter to U.S. Congressional leadership, more than 300 agriculture, environment, academic, infrastructure, and other stakeholder groups are calling on Congress to reaffirm federal pesticide preemption on labeling and packaging.  The groups are calling specifically for Congress to reaffirm that states may not impose additional labeling or packaging requirements that conflict with federal findings.  Failing to do so, the groups warn, could hold disastrous consequences for food security, the environment, public health, vital infrastructure, and other uses where pesticides provide important societal benefits.“Science-based crop protection tools are critical to the success of America’s farmers,” said National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag. “State labels that conflict with EPA’s scientific guidance threaten public confidence in EPA’s authority and science-based regulation and contribute to the misunderstanding of the critical role pesticides play in sustainably feeding a growing world.”

Kansas State University is emerging as a key location for global food systems and bio-security innovations and it is a major economic driver for the state of Kansas. To enhance development, the university is making several renovations and relocating the milling, baking, and feed science building known as Shellenberger Hall between Call and Weber Hall. This will improve the technology needed, said dean of agriculture, Ernie Minton, in a release November 24.  “What we hope to do is really stimulate even a greater degree of multidisciplinary collaboration what we’re all about in the college is solving world food problems and stimulating economic activity here in the state of Kansas in the industry that leads the state and that would be food and agriculture,” said Minton. Toward this effort (as reported in the October issue of the Agricultural Council’s newsletter), the ag school has raised approximately $55.5 million on the way to the $75 million goal.

The University of Missouri’s recently dedicated Food Processing and Safety Lab will help people who make and sell processed foods ensure they are safe. “Our new lab – connected to Missouri’s Food, Beverage and Forest Product Manufacturing Initiative – gives businesses a qualified testing facility to ensure their products meet safety standards,” said Rob Kallenbach, associate dean of extension in the MU College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources. Microbiological services include general microbial analysis (such as total plate count, molds and yeast, salmonella, pathogenic E. coli, Listeria monocytogenes, etc.) of raw and finished food products. The lab also offers customized process validation/microbial challenge research projects.

Farmer sentiment weakened again in October as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer dropped 10 points to a reading of 102. Both barometer’s sub-indices also declined this month. The Current Conditions Index dipped 8 points to a reading of 101, while the Future Expectations Index dropped 11 points to a reading of 102. The “Ag Economy Barometer” is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. This month’s survey was conducted October 10-14. “Concern over rising interest rates grew once again in October and is adding to the unease among producers who are worried about its impact on their farm operations,” said James Mintert, the barometer’s principal investigator and director of Purdue’s Center for Commercial Agriculture. “Additionally, challenging shipping conditions throughout the Mississippi River valley have hampered exports recently, and the corresponding widespread weakening of corn and soybean basis levels could be contributing to heightened unease about financial performance.”

PEOPLE

Cargill has named Brian Sikes it’s new CEO for the agribusiness giant, succeeding Dave MacLennan. Sikes will be the 10th CEO in Cargill’s 157-year history. MacLennan, 63, who has led Cargill since 2013, will remain executive chairman after Sikes takes over as CEO on January 1. 2023. Sikes has been with the company for 31 years and currently serves as Cargill’s chief operating officer. He has held various leadership roles in the U.S., Canada and Europe.

Farm Journal announced Eric Peterson has been named Chief Executive Officer of Machinery Pete. Peterson has more than 25 years of senior management experience, as well as 15 years of strategic development and plan execution for multi-store equipment dealerships. He most recently was large ag sales manager for Midwest Machinery Co. and previously served in agriculture equipment sales roles at multiple levels in the north-central United States. He started his career in his family’s farm equipment business conducting appraisals and dealing in used equipment.

Kylie Massengale recently joined Kansas Corn’s Grower Services team as Programs Manager, Eastern Grower Services. She began working for Kansas Corn in 2019, previously serving as the Education Programs Manager.

Kansas State University’s Rachel Veenstra is one of eight ag graduate students selected as ResearchAmbassadors by the National Corn Growers Association.  Developed and funded by NCGA’s Sustainable Ag Research Action Team, the objective is to build a network of future leaders in the agricultural sector. Ambassadors must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and be involved in research relevant to corn production.

Ina Metzger Linville was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame for her lifetime achievements and contributions to 4-H. Honored by the University of Missouri Extension 4-H Center for Youth Development, Linville was one of 16 inducted in October during a ceremony at Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. Linville’s career with Missouri 4-H spanned more than 30 years. She served as Missouri 4-H program director from 2009 until her retirement in 2017.  “Ina’s state and national leadership helped 4-H develop effective national programs in 4-H Afterschool, 4-H STEM and 4-H Mentoring,” said Eddie Locklear, former national director for after-school, STEM and mentoring programs at the National 4-H Council.

Farm Journal announces Christine Shaw has been promoted to president of the company’s Producer Media Division from executive vice president of Farm Journal’s Crops Division. Shaw’s new role includes oversight of all media platforms that serve livestock audiences in addition to crop audiences, including the leading print brands Farm Journal, Top Producer, The SCOOP, Drovers, Farm Journal’s PORK, Dairy Herd Management and Bovine Veterinarian; iconic broadcast brands AgDay, U.S. Farm Report, Machinery Pete TV and AgriTalk; and agriculture’s top website, AgWeb.com.

EVENTS 

Registration is open and hotel reservations can now be made for PEAK 2023, formerly known as Midwest Poultry Federation Convention, that takes place April 11-13, 2023 at the Minneapolis Conventions Center. “We’re excited to debut our new name and branding at PEAK 2023,” said current MPF Board President Ross Thoreson of Best Veterinary Solutions. “Attendees will still find the same great focus on education and exhibits intended to increase producers’ profitability and connect the poultry industry in North America.” More information at www.midwestpoultry.com.

Farm Foundation®, an accelerator of practical solutions for agriculture, will host its next virtual Forum, What to Expect From the 2023 Farm Bill, on Tuesday, December 6, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. CDT. Spencer Chase, managing editor of Agri-Pulse, will moderate the panel, which will include diverse perspectives from these expert contributors:

• Christopher Adamo, former staff director, Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry.

• Jonathan Coppess, director, Gardner Agriculture Policy Program and associate professor of law and policy, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

• U.S. Congressman Glenn G.T. Thompson, Pennsylvania’s 15th District, U.S. House of Representatives.

This event is being held virtually and is free to attend, but registration is required. Farmers, ranchers, food and agribusiness leaders, government officials and staff, industry representatives, NGO representatives, academics, students in agricultural disciplines, and members of the media are all encouraged to attend. Register at www.farmfoundation.org.

University of Missouri’s 2022 Crop Management Conference will be held December 14-15 at the Stoney Creek Hotel in Columbia. Topics range from input price strategies, effects of the Russia-Ukraine war on agriculture and changes in forage fertilizer recommendations. Updates on insects, disease, weed management and new products and technology make a return, says MU Extension weed scientist Kevin Bradley.  Visit their website for more information.

American Angus Association has announced four internship positions for the summer of 2023 are open. These 10-week internship programs provide hands-on experience to allow students to grow and prosper while dipping their toes in the workforce. “This internship is one of the most unique opportunities in the cattle industry for young professionals,” said Ian Kane, 2022 intern. “The Association staff is welcoming, helpful and are great teachers, plus you get to travel and meet with Angus breeders.” These four internships being offered include Angus Media, Communications, Events & Junior Activities, and Angus Genetics Inc. For more information and a full description of each internship opportunity, visit angus.org/careers.

Digging Deeper...

PFAS compounds (per-and poly- fluoroalkyl substances) comprise a group of chemicals many of which contain a strong carbon-fluorine bond with properties that enable them to repel water and oil. Some PFAS formulations “build-up” over the years rather than “break-down.” Because they may linger on for decades, these compounds originally discovered by accident in the 1930’s, have been dubbed by some as “Forever Chemicals.”
By Ally Cunningham, Jessie Rosell, Matt Walker, and Shanna McCormack, attorneys at Lathrop GPM LLP

PFAS in Agriculture: What Agri-Business Sector Needs to Know about the Latest Emerging Contaminants

Agricultural professionals across the country are learning about a class of chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or “PFAS” and the operational risks they can create. Originally developed as the durable nonstick coating in Teflon pans, PFAS are now ubiquitous in the environment because of their long history of use in household products, industrial applications, and military bases using firefighting foam. There are currently few federal regulatory programs that deal with PFAS compounds, engendering a patchwork of varying state-led standards and initiatives to fill the gap. But federal and state programs are quickly evolving. This note looks ahead at what those in the agricultural sector need to know about PFAS and how it might impact their business.

Future Designation of PFOA and PFOS as Hazardous Substances and Impact on Biosolids

Heralded for years as an environmentally friendly fertilizer, land appliers of biosolids have voiced concerns about the potential for PFAS to accumulate in biosolids generated during wastewater treatment, which could transfer to land and groundwater when applied to a field. In August 2022, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) proposed designating two widely studied PFAS, PFOA and PFOS, as “hazardous substances”, which would subject releasors to federally enforced cleanup under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (“CERCLA”). Biosolid users fear they may face liability if they inadvertently release PFAS when applying biosolids.

In a press release, EPA explained it “is focused on holding responsible those who have manufactured and released significant amounts of PFOA and PFOS into the environment. EPA will use enforcement discretion and other approaches to ensure fairness for minor parties who may have been inadvertently impacted by the contamination.” EPA’s comments suggest a focus on primary PFAS generators, rather than passive receivers like biosolid users.

EPA also affirmed it was “committed to doing further outreach and engagement to hear from impacted communities, wastewater utilities, businesses, farmers and other parties during the consideration of the proposed rule.” Comments on the proposed rule closed November 7th, but in one notable comment, the City of Vancouver, Washington and Clark Regional Wastewater District urged EPA to clarify that the exclusion under the “normal application of fertilizer from CERCLA’s definition of release” includes “farmers applying biosolids to farm fields even where the biosolids contain CERCLA listed hazardous substances, such as PFOA/PFOS.”

EPA water chief Radhika Fox affirmed on October 11th that EPA plans to continue allowing current methods to manage biosolids—including land application because they are “essential for effective utility management.” While there is no explicit exemption currently proposed for agricultural operations, the combination of enforcement discretion and interpretation of existing exclusions may provide some comfort to biosolids users.

Department of Defense Notices to Downgradient Agriculture Operations

In 2021, Congress enacted the National Defense Authorization Act of 2021, part of which required the military to notify agriculture operations located within one mile downgradient of a Military Installation or National Guard facility where PFAS above certain standards: (1) were detected in groundwater on base; (2) hydrologically linked to a local agricultural or drinking water source; and (3) known or suspected to be the result of a PFAS release at a Military Installation or National Guard facility located in the United States. Many military installations have used or stored PFAS containing fire suppressants known as aqueous Film Forming Foam or AFFF, which may be released into the environment. As of August 2022, the Department of Defense (“DoD”) has sent over 3,585 notifications to farms of potential downstream PFAS contamination. Agricultural operations near military installations should be aware of any notices released from DoD and potential risks to their operations.

EPA and USDA Review of PFAS in Pesticides and from Fluorinated HDPE Containers

Recently, federal regulatory agencies including the EPA and U.S. Department of Agriculture (“USDA”) have identified a risk that certain high-density polyethylene (HDPE) containers, treated with fluorine gas to make them sturdier, can leach PFAS into their contents. The EPA had been investigating the presence of PFAS in pesticides since late 2020 when PFAS were detected in aerially applied mosquito sprays. To address these concerns, EPA released results from its evaluation on the leaching potential of PFAS and issued a letter to the HDPE container industry reminding them of manufacturing and reporting requirements to help prevent unintended PFAS formation. EPA also continues to ask companies using fluorinated containers to “examine their distribution chains to identify potential sources of contamination.” If companies find PFAS in their products, EPA has advised “they should notify EPA and take action to remove contaminated products.”

On September 13, 2022, the EPA announced it was removing 12 PFAS compounds from the current list of inert ingredients approved for use in pesticide products under Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act. The 12 PFAS subject to the notice are no longer used in any registered pesticide product, however, EPA’s delisting action would require an updated review if their future use in pesticide products is requested. This represents another step by EPA to monitor for PFAS in pesticide and agriculture products.

Aid Payments to Dairy Farmers for PFAS Contamination

Last year, the USDA Farm Service Agency (“FSA’) amended the Dairy Indemnity Payment Program to compensate dairy farmers whose cows cannot be put on the market due to PFAS contamination. This could be an indication that federal agencies have farmers in mind while addressing PFAS in the environment.

The Dairy Indemnity Payment Program, a program authorized in 1968 to reimburse farmers who are directed by federal agencies to stop selling milk because of contamination, reimburses farmers for PFAS contaminated cows and milk. Last year, 88% of the payments under the program were spent on reimbursement for PFAS. Often, the payments only make up a fraction of the value the cows would be worth if not contaminated. With the 2023 Farm Bill on the horizon, lawmakers and agriculture lobbyists are focused on additional funding to cover costs associated with PFAS.

Drinking Water Standards for PFAS

Agricultural operations should also be apprised of federal drinking water standards, particularly in food processing sector. On June 15, 2022, EPA updated its drinking water health advisories, or non-enforceable drinking water guidance values, for PFOA and PFOS that replace those previously issued in 2016. It reduced the health advisory level for PFOA and PFOS from 70 parts per trillion (ppt) in 2016 to 4 parts per quadrillion (PFOA) and 20 ppq (PFOS). These levels are undetectable by most modern laboratories, raising questions and confusion in determining what true relevance these interim, unenforceable advisories have. But enforceable standards are coming.

EPA announced plans to set legally enforceable drinking water standards for PFOA and PFOS by the end of 2023. The proposed standards will likely be published in the Federal Register in December 2022. These levels will likely be higher than the drinking water health advisory levels to ensure they can be reliably tested. Until EPA establishes enforceable drinking water standards and in the absence of a state standards, there is much uncertainty among those detecting and assessing “safe” levels of these compounds in drinking water.

Conclusion

Although there is uncertainty as to the future impact of EPA’s PFOA and PFOS hazardous substance listing on the use and liability for biosolids, DoD’s AFFF impacts to agriculture, and what drinking water standards EPA will set for PFOA and PFOS, agricultural operations should remain informed on EPA’s current standards. Agricultural operations should also understand nearby facilities to determine whether they could present PFAS-related concerns and be diligent about sourcing fertilizers, particularly biosolids, that could contain PFAS.