October Monthly Luncheon Showcases Kansas State University

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Featuring K-State Alumnus Gregg Doud, CEO, National Milk Producer’s Federation

The Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City spotlighted Kansas State University’s Colleges of Agriculture and Animal Health at its October luncheon and meeting on the Olathe Campus. Dr. Ben Wolfe, Olathe campus dean & CEO, discussed the impact that K-State has on the state, region and the world, noting, among others, the school’s concerted effort to create more jobs in agriculture and food production overall. “Food safety and security,” he said, “is a top priority.” Dr. Wolf also announced the Olathe Campus would be awarding $68,000 in new student scholarships.

Dr. Ernie Minton, dean of the College of Agriculture and director of K-State Research and Extension, explained, "A key component of K-State's vision to become the ideal next-generation land-grant university is the College of Agriculture's Agriculture Innovation Initiative." The initiative, he said, includes not only new, state-of-the-art facilities across campus, but also innovative teaching and research approaches that will enable K-State to recruit and retain world-class faculty and researchers.

"We are once again honored that K-State is included in Niche's Top 10 list for 2025 Best Colleges for Agricultural Sciences in America," said Dr. Minton. Niche.com is a Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania-based company that publishes guidebooks on U.S. colleges as well as K-12 schools throughout the U.S.

The featured speaker at the K-State Showcase was alumnus Gregg Doud, who is President and CEO of the National Milk Producer’s Federation.  He noted that America’s farmers have a bright future if the industry can capitalize on available opportunities for exports, technology and value-added products. Before taking the helm at NMPF, Doud served as the Chief Agricultural Negotiator in the Office of the United States Trade Representative from 2018 until 2021. He also was a staff member for the United States Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, where he helped draft the 2012 Farm Bill.

In an overview of the global ag industry, Doud pointed to the strong demand for protein globally, particularly from China. He commented that Chinese consumers love meat: “China is cleaning the world out of beef.” In August, the Chinese imported an all-time record for beef products from around the world. This situation hints at what the next decade could look like for U.S. beef producers, Doud explained. “In no way, shape or form does the supply of animal protein in the world come anywhere near meeting the demand.” He asked the rhetorical question: Who else in the world can make more animal protein?  “It sure isn’t going to be the Europeans, the Chinese, Japanese or Asians,” he answered. The only place on Earth that can comes close to meeting future demand is the United States. “Let’s get in on this; this is where it’s at.”

Doud pointed out that U.S. cattlemen can meet the supply. The problem is the supply chain, and bringing it up to speed requires technology and a review of regulatory obstacles. The Chinese, he said, are investing in “protein development,” so it is in the best interest of the U.S. protein industry to add effective supply chain dynamics to stay ahead of China. The U.S. food industry has a lot going for it. ‘We have the safest food in the world.” The U.S. just has to get it exported more easily with a minimum of red tape. 

Doud summed up his remarks implying the export sector of the U.S. food industry needs more technology investment targeted at food production, processing, distribution and innovation itself.

Latest News & Updates in KC Agriculture - September 2024

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Developments

Kansas corn harvest is getting underway next week, and while every field will be different, reports from across the state range from better than expected to a great crop. Prices, however, are “just ugly,” notes the Kansas Farm Bureau.  “A better than expected harvest after six weeks of no rain isn’t easy to deal with,” says KFB’s Greg Doering. “The excitement from a bumper crop is still dampened by low prices. It’s a testament to the faith growers have in the weather, markets and their own ability to look beyond today’s results and believe tomorrow’s will be better. Whether corn harvest is just starting or already wrapped up, one thing’s for certain. There’s always next year.” 

Agriculture Future of America (AFA) and Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS) have formed CORE Synergy to cultivate a steady stream of skilled, well-prepared individuals entering the agriculture workforce. CORE Synergy has also teamed with BASF, a global leader in chemical and natural resources, for guidance developing transformational training opportunities that equip participants with practical skills and knowledge, and preparing them to tackle pressing issues in agriculture. “At AFA, we believe that the future of agriculture is built by cultivating innovative leaders who are passionate about making a difference,” said Mark Stewart, AFA CEO. “CORE Synergy is an exciting collaboration that will allow us to deepen our impact by connecting students and professionals with critical resources and transformative training. Together with MANRRS and BASF, we are committed to empowering the next generation of agricultural leaders, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and entrepreneurial spirit needed to address the challenges of tomorrow’s agriculture industry.” Scott Kay, Vice President of U.S. Agricultural Solutions at BASF said, “We are committed to empowering young leaders who are not just the architects of tomorrow but also the stewards of today.”

Kansas State University plant pathologists and entomologists are reporting the first known case of corn stunt disease in Kansas, coming on the heels of reports in neighboring Oklahoma and Missouri. Row crop plant pathologist Rodrigo Onofre said that as of August 29, corn stunt disease and associated symptoms have been confirmed in field corn in Sedgwick, Pratt, Stafford and Edwards counties – and in sweet corn in Riley County. “The incidence of disease is low overall,” said  Onofre, “and much of the corn crop is in its later stages of maturity.” Corn stunt is a bacterial disease that results in severely stunted plants that often produce multiple small ears with loose or missing kernels.  

The August Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer dropped 13 points from July to a reading of 100, matching levels not seen since fall 2015 to winter 2016 – during the early stages of a significant downturn in the U.S. farm economy. The Index of Current Conditions also dropped 17 points to 83, while the Index of Future Expectations decreased by 11 points to 108. Weakening farm income prospects weighed on farmers’ sentiment as the outlook for a bountiful fall harvest was more than offset by declining crop prices. August’s decline in the barometer and related indices provide a signal that farmers are concerned about the possibility of extended weakness in farm incomes, similar to what took place from 2015 to 2019.  August’s survey results indicate a shift among farmers’ primary concerns, with 30% of respondents identifying lower commodity prices as their primary concern, compared to 33% who chose high input costs.

The Kansas Beef Council (KBC) has created a series of educational booklets, called beef readers, for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) teachers to use to connect the principles they are learning in class with cattle industry practices and innovations. The readers are designed for STEM classes like biology and environmental sciences for sixth to 12th grade. KBC’s booklets address how the cattle industry works to be sustainable, land and water use, and upcycling. The readers also highlight the multitude of careers that are possible in the cattle industry. Students can delve further into specific topics they are interested in through additional links and QR codes directing them to peer-reviewed and science-backed resources. At the end of each booklet, they can do experiments in the classroom to apply what they have learned. More information about the booklets, with corresponding teacher guides and student worksheets, is available at www.kansasbeef.org .

U.S. net farm income in 2024 was $137 billion, falling slightly from USDA’s September forecast and $9 billion lower than the 2023 figure, according to the latest update of the annual U.S. farm income and consumer food price report by The Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute (FAPRI) at the University of Missouri. Further declines in income are projected in 2025 as some moderation in production expenses and high cattle prices are not enough to offset the impact of lower crop prices. Pat Westhoff, FAPRI director, notes that these lower projections should be viewed with the appropriate context of historical farm finance conditions. “When adjusted for inflation, we anticipate the decline in farm income between 2022 and 2025 to be $67 billion,” said Westhoff. “However, despite a 35% drop, inflation-adjusted net farm income remains above the levels we experienced from 2015 to 2020.” FAPRI’s projections indicate a $32 billion drop in 2024 crop receipts (due to lower prices for many grains, oilseeds and other field crops) while livestock receipts see a healthy $19 billion increase with higher cattle prices. Overall farm production expenses are expected to decline in 2024 after seeing increases in 2022 and 2023. Looking ahead, farm income is projected to decline further in 2025, with a modest recovery in 2026. For the third straight year, payments under the price loss coverage (PLC) and agriculture risk coverage (ARC) programs will be below $1 billion in 2024. The fall in crop prices since 2022 sees payments under these programs rise to $5 billion in 2025 and 2026. “From the consumer perspective, we’re also anticipating a slowdown in food inflation,” said Westhoff. “Our projections indicate a rate of 2.2% in 2024, dropping down to 1.6% in 2025.” 

The Missouri Department of Agriculture recently announced that 17 projects will receive funding through the Food Insecure Cost-Share Grant Program. The competitive grant program will provide up to $50,000 per project to address food insecurity in urban areas. Grant funds may be used to increase food production and availability within an urban area; demonstrate growth of local economic communities; increase local economic impact; increase availability of food to local residents; or enhance already established areas within a community and provide assistance to the community. More information about the Food Insecure Cost-Share Grant can be found at  www.Agriculture.Mo.Gov.

People

Agriculture Future of America added Savannah Peterson to staff as a marketing specialist. A recent Kansas State graduate, she brings multimedia production and social media management experience.

Ben Travlos has been hired as director of policy for the Missouri Soybean Association. He was previously the director of state and local legislative affairs at the Missouri Farm Bureau and has also held positions with the Missouri Department of Agriculture
and Missouri Corn Growers Association.

Lenexa, KS-based Farm Journal, has named Chris Seper as Executive Vice President, Farm Journal brands. He will lead the company’s audience center of excellence, which includes the editorial, broadcast, audience development, events, content studios and product development teams.

Kansas Farm Bureau  Legal Foundation has named three new attorneys as recipients of the organization’s Rural Law Practice Grants. Paige Harding, Clarissa Ratzlaff and Jack Roenne are eligible to receive up to $16,500 each to help defray the cost of their education as they begin practicing law in rural areas of Kansas. All three graduated from the Washburn University School of Law. “Kansas farmers and ranchers need sound legal advice across a broad range of issues, especially as operations expand and become more complex,” Wendee Grady, Kansas Farm Bureau Legal Foundation director, says. “I’m excited KFB’s Legal Foundation is helping three new attorneys begin their careers in roles that impact the quality of life for farmers, ranchers and rural Kansans.”

Events

Kansas Rural Center (KRC) is celebrating 45 years of conservation, diversification, and innovation at the 2024 Food and Farm Conference, Saturday, November 16, 2024 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM CST. The event will take place at the Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview Wichita. More information at (866) 579-5469 or events@kansasruralcenter.org .

The University of Missouri’s Wurdack Extension and Education Center 2024 field day will be held Friday, October 4, focusing on cattle management strategies for reproduction, feed and forage. “Cattle and forage management should be top of mind for any beef producer in Missouri,” said Gatlin Bunton, director of MU Wurdack Center, a 1,200-acre research and demonstration farm on the Meramec River in the northeastern Ozarks. “This field day will allow participants to gain new perspectives on reproductive strategies in beef cattle and a better understanding of forage options beyond tall fescue.” The field day begins at 9:30 a.m. and wraps up with a free lunch at noon. Register for this free event at www.cvent.com/d/hzqvl5/4W.

Registration for the 2024 Kansas Livestock Association’s Convention & Expo now is open. This year’s event will be November 20-22 in Manhattan at the Hilton Garden Inn & Convention Center. Online registration is available at www.kla.org  or call the office at (785) 273-5115 to register. The Hilton Garden Inn, which is convention headquarters, is sold out. However, rooms still can be reserved at the Fairfield Inn at (785) 539-2400, Holiday Inn Express & Suites at (785) 320-7454, Bluemont Hotel at (785) 473-7091 and Courtyard Manhattan-Aggieville at (785) 587-1972. Be sure to tell the hotel you are with KLA to receive the convention room rate.

The 44th Missouri Agricultural Lender Seminars, hosted by the Agricultural Business and Policy Extension Program, The Food & Agricultural Policy Research Institute and the Rural & Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center at the University of Missouri, get underway in November  with series of six programs.  Lenders supporting Missouri’s farmers and ranchers are invited to attend one of six regional seminars hosted across the state. Topics covered include these:

  • Crop and livestock market outlooks

  • Input costs and enterprise budgets

  • Updates on agricultural policy

  • Land values and cash rental rates

For more information contact Ben Brown, 660-492-7574 or bpbrown@missouri.edu.

Kansas State University - Olathe will hold a hybrid professional development seminar on Artificial Intelligence in Animal Health Diagnostics on October 9 from 1:30-4:30pm, "Enhancing Diagnostics Through the Power of AI.” Info and registration are here.

K-State Olathe will also host a series of webinar info sessions on their academic programs, which include:

  • Data Analytics and Insights in Animal Health (certificate) | Noon on Sept. 25 | Register now

  • Animal Health Regulatory Affairs (certificate) | 12:30 p.m. on Sept. 25 | Register now

  • Veterinary Biomedical Science (master's degree) | Noon on Oct. 16 | Register now

All of the University's upcoming events can be found here.

Digging Deeper...

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At the Tenth Annual Ag Outlook Forum, hosted by Agri-Pulse Communications and the Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City this month, a spotlight was on a softening agricultural economy and Congress’s struggles to pass a 2025 Farm Bill. “Farm bills have become more of a challenge as tight budgets and increasing national partisanship bleed into the typically bipartisan Congressional agriculture committees, said Zach Helder, Ag Business Council’s Director of Member Services. Despite these challenges, innovation in agricultural production and markets are reason for long-term optimism. Presentations on biofuels and agricultural technology showcased big opportunities ahead for the industry.
By Dennis McLaughlin, McLaughlin Writers LLC. Additional Source: The Future of Aviation, SFA Magazine, Sept. 13, 2024. 

Sowing Better Seeds

At the outset of his presentation, Tim Glenn, Executive Vice President, Seed Business Unit, Corteva Agriscience, praised farmers’ business sense. “Farmers are not in it for the lifestyle,” he said. “They are business-oriented, always thinking about growing their business and building surpluses.”  

Glenn added that farmers are natural economists who want to sustain their farms as a legacy. Farmers grow and reproduce while other industries, like mining, deplete resources and move on to another location. Farmers are adept at managing resources, making strategic decisions and adapting to market changes. Farmers often have to navigate complex financial landscapes, balancing costs of inputs like seeds and fertilizers with the fluctuating prices of their produce. “This requires a deep understanding of both local and global markets,” Glenn said, “making them quite skilled in economics.”            

Demands on farmers are increasing, noted Glenn. World population and income growth continues to drive global agriculture expansion, and farmers continue to face ongoing challenges. Climate variability, resource scarcity, as well as changing pest, disease, and weed pressures are daunting obstacles. Uncertain regulatory and policy demands as well as new consumer expectations regarding sustainability and food safety issues are not making farmers’ lives easier.

Said Glenn, “America needs to get more innovation into the hands of farmers.” Innovation is critical to yield improvements. “Corteva is investing in a full suite of technologies to drive productivity gains,” he said. Farmers need a broad range of solutions for plant breeding, traits, gene editing and crop protection. “We also are researching biologicals and seed applied technologies.”  

But there is another area of research and innovation that Glenn’s company is pursuing: Decision Science.  While most fields of research focus on producing new knowledge, decision science is concerned with making optimal choices based on available information. Farmers’ ability to balance costs, optimize yields, and invest in new technologies showcases their economic savvy, Glenn said. “It’s a reminder of the critical role they play not just in agriculture, but in the broader economy as well.” 

Future Of Biofuels

A panel led by Greg Krissek, CEO Emeritus of Kansas Corn and former Board Chair of the Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City, provided  an overview of efforts to reduce GHG emissions across the Midwest and growing the ethanol and agriculture industries.

Lee Blank, CEO, Summit Carbon Solutions, said his company is committed to introducing advanced decarbonization technology. In 2021, it announced a partnership for a major pipeline project with 57 ethanol plants across the Midwest. The pipeline would funnel captured emissions to North Dakota to be permanently and safely sequestered deep underground. 

Projects like those of Summit Carbon Solutions are essential to ensuring the long-term viability of the ethanol industry. The marketplace for low-carbon fuel is getting stronger, noted Donnell Rehagen, CEO Clean Fuels Alliance America (CFAA). He said CFAA is committed to driving the biofuels industry to reach its goal of creating demand for six billion gallons of clean biofuel by 2030.

Developing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is key to hitting that target. Krissek and the panel explained the technology for producing biofuels is well understood, and processing techniques are steadily advancing and improving. The aviation industry stands at the cusp of a monumental shift as it grapples with its significant carbon footprint. Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF)could play a big role in reducing that footprint, but widespread adoption hinges on advancements in technology, scaling up production, and prioritization from policymakers..

One of the unknowns, at the moment, said Rahagen, is what the regulatory landscape is going to look like. “We need to know what the policies and incentives will be.”  On the bright side, CFAA noted, “There are already significant efforts on the federal and state levels to incentivize SAF use, which may facilitate its broader adoption.” The challenge, though, is serious. In 2022, the U.S. consumed approximately 24 billion gallons of jet fuel, while SAF production was still only in the millions of gallons.

Even so, the biofuels industry is optimistic about ramping up production. Says CFAA, “The future of aviation is not just about flying higher or faster, but about flying cleaner.” Rehagen added that biofuel development changes and improves manifestly every five years. The airlines, though, may be a little more circumspect. As panelist Jeff Davidman, Vice President, Government Affairs, Delta Air Lines, said, “We need SAF; in 2023 at Delta, we had 25 million gallons of SAF on hand. But it is two-to-three times more costly to obtain and use.”

SAF is still in its early stages. Jonathan Martin, CFAA’s Director of Economics and Market  Analytics, recently was quoted in SAF Magazine (September 13, 2024),  saying SAF holds tremendous promise for the aviation industry. With strong demand from airlines, ongoing technological advancements and the role of supportive policies, he said, SAF could play a pivotal role in reducing the carbon footprint of air travel.  “The outlook is very positive; the advantage SAF producers have is a willing customer base – the future of aviation is not just about flying higher or faster, but about flying cleaner.”

ICYMI: Farm Bill & Ag Economy Are Top Concerns at 10th Ag Outlook Forum

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Jim barcus photo

KANSAS CITY, MO.  ---- Navigating a softening agricultural economy and Congress’s struggles to pass a new farm bill preoccupied speakers and attendees at the Tenth Annual Ag Outlook Forum on September 16, 2024, hosted by Agri-Pulse Communications, Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City, and presenting sponsors, American Ag Credit, FCS Financial, and Farm Credit Services of America.

In its 10th year, the Ag Outlook Forum Is a Key Stop for Leaders in Agriculture, as Kansas City Becomes America’s Agricultural Capital

The Ag Outlook Forum has become a critical annual information exchange between national leaders in agriculture policy, economics, and business during harvest season. This year, prominent speakers included USDA’s Under Secretary Robert Bonnie, ERS Administrator Dr. Spiro Stefanou, and Chief Economist Dr. Seth Meyer, as well as U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) and U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann (R-KS-01). From the private sector, executives from Delta Air Lines, Corteva, John Deere, Summit Carbon Solutions, and Zurich North America also spoke to innovation and business developments across the food and agriculture space.

Agriculture is Closely Watching Congress’ Progress on the Farm Bill

Opening the forum, Sara Wyant, founder and president of Agri-Pulse, noted that agriculture is getting more attention from Americans in general. But farm bills have become a challenge as tight budgets and increasing national partisanship bleed into the typically bipartisan Congressional agriculture committees.

 “Passing the bill this year is critical,” said Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS), the forum’s opening speaker. He argued that an extension of the legislation is insufficient. “Let’s just go with what we have doesn’t work anymore,” Moran pressed. Following conversations with Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow (D-Michigan), however, Sen. Moran expressed optimism that a Bill could reach the finish line this year. U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann (R-KS-01), whose district is among the top three in agricultural production, offered that five year farm bills provide necessary certainty for producers and consumers alike.

Uncertainty Ahead as Agricultural Economists Predict Valley in Ag Business Cycle

In his U.S. Ag Economy Overview, Seth Meyer, USDA Chief Economist, said most crop prices will likely continue their downward trend in 2024, but so will total production expenses, alleviating some losses.  “Crop receipts,” he said, “are expected to lower net farm income for 2024.” He went on to explain that farmers can have several good years of farm income that can carry them through leaner times.  “At the moment that appears where we're at,” Meyer added. John Newton, most recently chief economist for the Senate Agriculture Committee who is now the head of Terrain, warned that an agriculture downturn will affect rural America more broadly, pointing out that agriculture was responsible for 20% of U.S. Economic Output in 2023 (valued at $9.6 trillion) and 15% of U.S. employment. Said Kanlaya Barr, Director of Corporate Economics at John Deere, “The difference between these times and the last [agricultural business] cycle is the interest rate. Yes, the market talks about a .25-.50% drop, but the point is that it is still a very high interest rate.”  Said Jackson Takach, Chief Economist of Farmer Mac, “Liquidity will be a premium in 2025—having access to extra working capital [for producers] will be increasingly important in more variable economics conditions.”

Speakers addressed other emerging issues and opportunities in Agriculture, including:

  • California’s Prop 12

    • California's Proposition 12 mandates minimum space requirements for certain farm animals and prohibits the sale of meat and eggs in California from animals confined in spaces that do not meet these standards, regardless of where they are produced. Last February, USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack said, “If we don’t take this issue seriously, we’re going to have chaos in the marketplace.” Lori Stevermer, President, National Pork Producers Council, argued that Prop 12 could violate Interstate Commerce statutes. She said, “The California poultry industry can’t tell other states what to do; the issue needs federal regulation.”  Since Prop 12’s implementation in July 2023, California’s pork product retail prices increased by an average 20%.

  • Climate Smart Agriculture

    • Robert Bonnie, Under Secretary for USDA’s Farm Production and Conservation, presented on the $19.5 billion in new conservation programs passed in the 2022 Inflation Act. “Farmers, ranchers and forest landowners are the best stewards of our lands and waters, he said, “and they play a critical role in climate change mitigation,” USDA is committed to working with farmers, ranchers, forest landowners and partners to increase climate resilience, sequester carbon, enhance agricultural productivity and maintain critical environmental benefits through voluntary conservation efforts. Over the last three years, USDA has invested $330 million in 85 locally driven, public-private partnerships to mitigate climate change and address other natural resource challenges through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program.

  • Biofuels

    • In a panel representing a cross-section of the biofuels value chain, Greg Krissek, former CEO of Kansas Corn, moderated a discussion about the future of biofuels. Additional infrastructure modifications are required to accommodate the distribution and storage of the biofuels. More importantly, the economics of biofuel must be competitive with fossil fuel to drive widespread adoption, said Jeff Davidman, Vice President, Government Affairs for Delta Air Lines. “We have stockpiled millions of gallons of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), but it is two-to-three times more expensive,” he pointed out. As the biofuel sector endeavors to scale SAF supply, it needs to know what the policies and incentives will be, said Donnell Rehagen, CEO, Clean Fuels Alliance. “Nevertheless,” stated Lee Blank, CEO, Summit Carbon Solutions, “it’s an exciting time during this development of biofuels.”

  • Seed Innovation

    • Tim Glenn, Executive Vice President, Seed Business Unit, Corteva, provided any overview of innovation on the farm, from seed genetics, farm management practices, and data collection. “Seed innovation has enabled higher corn yields with fewer inputs – tripling corn hybrid yield under drought stress and flood since 1940. And that’s just traditional plant breeding… what NGCA yield contests show over time is possible now [from innovation in the last 25 years] is that there is still more potential for corn yield. Last year we had a customer in Virginia who delivered a 626 bushel corn yield.”

Full Speaker List:

  • U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, Kansas

  • Spiro Stefanou, Administer, Economic Research Service, USDA

  • Lori Stevermer, President National Pork Producers Council

  • U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann, Kansas

  • Robert Bonnie, Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation, USDA

  • Dalynn Hoch, Head, RCIS for Zurich North America

  • Seth Meyer, USDA Chief Economist

  • Jackson Takach, Chief Economist, Farmer Mac

  • John Newton, Executive Head of Terrain

  • Kanlaya Barr, Director of Corporate Economics, John Deere

  • Tim Glenn, Executive Vice President, Seed Business Unit John Deere

  • Greg Krissek, CEO Emeritus, Kansas Corn

  • Donnell Rehagen, CEO, Clean Fuels Alliance America

  • Jeff Davidman, Vice President-Government Affairs, Delta Air Lines

  • Lee Blank, CEO, Summit Carbon Solutions

Staffing Changes Ahead for Ag Business Council

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Bob Petersen, the long-time executive director for the Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City, has announced his plans to retire.  Petersen’s firm, Petersen Consulting Services (PCS), provides staffing services to the Council.  At PCS, he will be succeeded by Erica Venancio as the firm’s senior executive.  New to the firm is Zachary Helder, who recently completed his MPA at Princeton University and brings a decade of experience in agriculture, public policy, and organizational management.

“I have been so fortunate to enjoy a 50-year career in agriculture working for and with some of the finest people, companies, and associations there are,” Petersen said.  A Nebraska native, Petersen spent 20 years in Washington, DC at the helm of a national grain trade organization.  In 2000, he and his family re-located to Kansas City where he held several prominent roles, including president of the Kansas City Board of Trade (2000-2004) and president of the American Royal (2010-2015). 

Along the way, he began his own consulting firm specializing in the management of agricultural non-profit trade associations.  “I am glad to leave our clients in such good hands,” Petersen said. Erica Venancio, the firm’s incoming principal, is no stranger to ag circles, either.  She joined the firm, founded by her father, in 2008 and has become a very knowledgeable and capable leader.  She is a summa cum laude graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University where she earned undergraduate and graduate degrees in social work.  Venancio will assume the position of senior staff executive for the firm’s clients upon Petersen’s retirement, September 1.

Her leadership marks a new chapter for the firm, as she builds upon the strong foundation laid by Petersen.  "I am excited to continue the excellent work of our firm and look forward to the future with optimism," said Venancio. "Working alongside Zach, I am confident in our ability to continue to meet our clients’ needs with an eye towards growth in the future. Bob has been an incredible mentor to me, personally and professionally, and I am deeply grateful for his guidance and support."

Zach Helder, who joins PCS effective September 1, 2024, will assume many of the outward-facing responsibilities Petersen previously held.  Helder is from the Kansas City area with family roots in Nebraska and California farm country.  He holds an undergraduate degree from UCLA and a graduate degree from Princeton University.  Recently, he served as senior ag advisor to Kansas Congresswoman Sharice Davids.  As part of Helder’s graduate work at Princeton he led a bipartisan working group of former USDA Secretaries and agribusiness leaders investigating the consequences of the Russia-Ukraine War on international trade and food security, and their findings were published in Foreign Affairs.

Latest News & Updates in KC Agriculture - August 2024

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Developments

The Environmental Protection Agency released its final Herbicide Strategy, an unprecedented step in protecting over 900 federally endangered and threatened species from the potential impacts of herbicide, which are chemicals used to control weeds. The final strategy incorporates a wide range of stakeholder input, ensuring that EPA not only protects species but also preserves a wide range of pesticides for farmers and growers. “Finalizing our first major strategy for endangered species is a historic step in EPA’s meeting its Endangered Species Act obligations,” said Deputy Assistant Administrator for Pesticide Programs for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention Jake Li. “By identifying protections earlier in the pesticide review process, we are far more efficiently protecting listed species from the millions of pounds of herbicides applied each year and reducing burdensome uncertainty for the farmers that use them.”

University of Missouri researchers are working to develop the first-ever vaccine proven to protect cattle from a devastating tick-borne cattle disease known as bovine anaplasmosis. The research is vital to the state’s economy as it aims to protect Missouri’s $1.6 billion cattle industry. Bovine anaplasmosis — which is common in Missouri — infects the red blood cells of cattle and causes hundreds of millions of dollars in economic losses nationwide each year and nearly $1 billion in losses worldwide, primarily due to reduced cattle production, treatment costs and deaths. Roman Ganta, a McKee endowed professor in Mizzou’s College of Veterinary Medicine and a Bond Life Sciences Center researcher, led the study that created the new vaccine. The work involved genetically modifying the pathogen Anaplasma marginale — which causes bovine anaplasmosis — in a lab. By deleting a specific gene and then injecting the modified pathogen into cattle, the vaccinated cattle were successfully immunized against the disease.

Kansas Department of Agriculture has announced the EPA has ordered the emergency suspension of all registrations of pesticide products containing the active ingredient dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate (DCPA). EPA previously approved registrations for pesticide products containing DCPA to control weeds in both agricultural and non-agricultural sites, including non-residential turf sites, nursery stock and produce. This emergency suspension is a result of EPA’s determination that DCPA is an imminent health hazard, in particular for babies whose mothers were exposed to DCPA during pregnancy. EPA’s determination that led to the emergency suspension comes as a result of the registration review process in which registered pesticides are periodically evaluated to ensure they cause no unreasonable adverse effects on human health or the environment. The emergency suspension is effective immediately, and prohibits the continued sale, distribution and use of any pesticide products containing DCPA. Additional information is available here.

The Missouri Pork Association is now accepting applications for their 2025 Internship Program. Up to two college students will be selected for the summer period and work full time in the Columbia, Missouri office from mid-May through mid-August. An additional part time internship is available from January through mid-May, and another part-time internship from mid-August through December. To learn more about the MPA Internship Program, or to complete an application, visit www.mopork.com/youth/MPA-internship-program, or contact Diane Slater, director of communications, at (573) 445-8375 or e-mail diane@moppork.com.

AgriTalk, the nation’s first and only radio talk show focused entirely on agriculture and rural America is celebrating its 30th anniversary. Debuting in August,1994, as a single-hour program, AgriTalk is now hosted by Chip Flory and has evolved into two hours of daily programming drawing a loyal audience across farm country. To celebrate this anniversary, Flory hosted a special edition of AgriTalk featuring former hosts Ken Root and Mike Adams, long-time producer and industry veteran John Herath, along with AgriTalk news reporter Davis Michaelsen. “Three decades on the air is a remarkable milestone,” said Brian Conrady, executive vice president of Farm Journal. AgriTalk airs live each morning at 10 am Central and each afternoon at 2 pm Central on more than 100 affiliates in 19 states.

Drought and late-emerging winter wheat dealt a blow to growers in Kansas and other parts of the Midwest during the 2022-2023 growing season. But now, a group of Kansas State University researchers and several colleagues are punching back, releasing a set of findings that just may hold some clues on how to help farmers bring in a good crop even in dry years. “What we’ve learned,” said Xiaomao Lin, a K-State agronomy professor and Kansas state climatologist, “is that pre-seasonal drought is a hidden driver to crop failure, especially when spring precipitation is not as much as expected.” Lin called the precipitation deficits during the 2022-2023 fall season “unprecedented” across the major wheat-producing regions of the United States. In the July 31, 2024, issue of Science Advances, a publication of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, researchers report a 37% reduction in wheat production due to yield loss per harvested acre and severe crop abandonment. According to the journal article, 2,350,000 acres were abandoned during the 2022-2023 growing season. At an average price of $6 per bushel, and an expected yield of 45 bushels per acre, those losses amount to more than $634 million. “Our findings that recent production losses are reminiscent of the Dust Bowl era of the 1930s highlights the severity of the possible climate conditions we now face, and their potential to cause significant agricultural disruptions,” said Lina Zhang, the study’s lead author.

Missouri Department of Agriculture announced funding is available to assist Missouri farmers and food processors in obtaining organic certification for their businesses. Through the USDA’s National Organic Certification Cost Share Program, producers may be reimbursed for up to $750 of their certification costs during the program year. Missouri received $49,425 in program funds to be used for the reimbursement of up to 75% of producers’ and handlers’ certification costs, with a maximum of $750 per certification scope. MDA is accepting applications through November 1, 2024. For an application or to learn more, visit the Organic Cost Share Program webpage. For more about the program, contact Whitney.Williams@mda.mo.gov, or call (573) 751-7794.

Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority (MASBDA) is now accepting applications for funding through the Show-Me Entrepreneurial Grants for Agriculture (SEGA) Innovation Grant Program. Missouri entities seeking to add value to agricultural products may submit applications until Oct. 4, 2024. The SEGA Innovation Grant Program was created in 2019 by the Missouri Food, Beverage, and Forest Products Manufacturing Task Force, chaired by Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe. Grants are funded by an appropriation from the Missouri General Assembly to encourage value-added agriculture innovation in the state. Applications must be submitted to MASBDA by 3 p.m. Friday, October 4, 2024. Grant program application forms and evaluation criteria are available online at www.masbda.com.

Events

Kansas Department of Agriculture is currently recruiting for an outbound beef genetics trade mission to Hermosillo, Mexico. The mission is a joint effort between the International Brangus Breeders Association, the Kansas Department of Agriculture, and the New Mexico Department of Agriculture and will take place November 4-8, 2024. During the outbound mission, the team will have an opportunity to visit ranches and agribusinesses in the beef sector. Additionally, the trade mission will allow Kansas producers to network and promote U.S. beef genetics during an educational seminar and reception. Producers who raise purebred cattle and are interested in exporting to Mexico should consider applying. For an application, please visit agriculture.ks.gov/international or contact KDA international trade director Suzanne Ryan-Numrich at Suzanne.Numrich@ks.gov or 785-564-6704. Application deadline is Friday, September 6, 2024.

The 25th Annual K-State Beef Stocker Field Day takes place at the Beef Stocker Unit (4330 Marlatt Ave., Manhattan, KS 66503) September 26, 2024. The program features practical information and management tips to achieve greater flexibility and optimize stocker operation in the evolving beef industry. The day includes a barbeque brisket lunch and will conclude with a good old-fashioned prairie oyster fry and Call Hall ice cream. Registration is $25 per person if paid by September 13 and $35 after that date or at the door.  For more information or to register visit asi.ksu.edu/stockerfieldday. 

Kansas State University Olathe Campus is hosting an Animal Health Conference September 17-19, 2024. The curriculum will focus on Animal Health Regulatory Affairs: “Working Successfully with USDA and FDA.”  For more information contact Lauren Racki at www.laurenracki@ksu.edu or 913-307-7340. Other upcoming activities include these:

Kansas City-based National Institute for Animal Agriculture is accepting nominations for the fourth Cohort of the Advanced Training for Animal Agriculture Leaders.  Nominations are due November 17. The 16-month leadership program blends in-person and virtual working sessions to focus on four areas of development: critical thinking, leadership development, connecting and relating skills, and operational excellence. Members of the program work together on applied-learning, small-group capstone projects, which will incorporate topics of interest in animal agriculture. NIAA launched the program in 2021 to provide emerging leaders a new opportunity to gain next-level leadership and professional development training specifically focused on the animal agriculture segment of the industry. Since then, the program has represented a wide range of agricultural sectors. The program empowers professionals in the early to midpoint of their careers to build on previous leadership development experiences and collaborate with peers across the industry to advance animal agriculture’s role in today’s food system. The United Soybean Board serves as the founding sponsor of the Advanced Training for Animal Agriculture Leaders program, with additional financial support provided by Farm Credit, NIAA and its members and partners. For more contact Jessie Wadle at  Jessie.Wadle@animalagriculture.org.

Kansas Soybean Association is calling all soybean farmers in Kansas to enter their competitive soybean crop into the Kansas Soybean Yield Contest. The statewide Kansas Soybean Value Contest that analyzes protein, oil and other soybean qualities is also open for entries. Strong participation across the state provides a snapshot of growing conditions in each region and allows friendly competition among peers. KSA unveils important date changes for the 2024 contests, including an expedited postmark-by date of November 15 and revisions to the announcement timeline. A full guide of contest rules and regulations, as well as the digital entry form, are available at https://kansassoybeans.org/association/contests/. Questions may be directed to the Kansas Soybean office by phone at 877-KS-SOYBEAN (877-577-6923) or to local KSRE offices.

People

Claire Walker, of Chillicothe, Missouri, was named the 2024 Missouri State Fair Queen. Walker received the highest score of 31 contestants vying for the title in the two-day competition, held in the Mathewson Exhibition Center. She reigned over this year’s State Fair events and will be an ambassador for the State Fair and Missouri agriculture throughout the coming year. Walker attends the University of Missouri majoring in Agribusiness Management. As Queen, she will receive a $2,000 scholarship to continue her education.  Rachel Ancell, Missouri Sheep Producers Representative, was named first runner-up and will receive a $1,000 scholarship. Second runner-up went to Miss Scotland County, Emma Harvey, who will receive a $500 scholarship. The third runner-up honor went to Allison Pollard, who will receive a $350 scholarship, and the fourth runner-up honor went to Trinity Wrightfield, who will receive a $250 scholarship. 

Nebraska cattle rancher and social media influencer Natalie Kovarik is set to return as a mentor in the Animal Agriculture Alliance’s 2024 College Aggies Online (CAO) program. CAO is open to undergraduate, graduate, and pre-professional students as well as collegiate clubs and classes in the U.S. More than $20,000 in scholarship awards is available for participants. CAO would not be possible without the generous support of sponsors, including Dairy Management Inc., National Pork Industry Foundation, John K. Vanier Foundation, Institute for Feed Education and Research, Culver Franchising System, Domino’s Pizza LLC, Ohio Poultry Association, and National Chicken Council. To become a sponsor of this year’s program, contact Logan Hall, director, membership and marketing, at Ihall@animalagalliance.org.

Ernie Davis, Jr. was recently named Certified Hereford Beef® president and CEO. He brings three decades of merchandising experience to his new role, across all animal proteins. Much of his experience revolves around developing premium branded opportunities to help producers add value to production and retrieve added value for their efforts. “I view Certified Hereford Beef as the best kept secret in the marketplace,” Davis says. “It is a great eating experience with great marbling and a great story behind it. I like selling a premium product with a producer-based story that resonates with consumers.” Jack Ward, executive vice president of the American Hereford Association, said, “We’re excited to welcome Ernie and his many years of value-added experience to the Hereford team.”

Amy France was elected chairwoman of the National Sorghum Producers at its board’s annual meeting. The thirdgeneration on her family farm in Western Kansas, France grows sorghum, corn, wheat and black Angus cattle with herhusband and son. She has served on the NSP board since 2018. NSP directors elected include Garret Love ofMontezuma, Kansas, as vice chairman, Barry Evans of Kress, Texas, and Dustin Borden of Gruver, Texas. CraigMeeker of Wellington, Kansas, is past chairman.

Veteran ag journalist Gregory Henderson passed away August 16, 2024. A graduate of K-State, Greg served as a writer and editorial director for The Drovers Journal for over three decades. Greg was an advocate for the beef industry addressing tough issues through commentary.

Hannah Fonseca, a writer at Agri-Pulse Communications, has transitioned to Agri-Pulse’s sales team after more than five years on the editorial team. During her time with the company, Fonseca wrote the weekly Farm Hands column, and contributed to the weekly Newsmakers TV show and the daily DriveTime podcast.

Forward TogetHER Conference set to empower and connect

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By Progressive Dairy Editor Audrey Schmitz

The Dairy Girl Network (DGN) is excited to announce their Forward TogetHER 2024 conference set to take place in Independence, Mo. on November 5-7, 2024. This conference focuses on personal and professional development to help women learn, lead and succeed in their daily journey on the farm, at home and throughout our industry.

For members of the Agricultural Business Council, the Forward TogetHER conference is right in your backyard, making it a convenient and valuable opportunity to engage with industry leaders and peers without having to travel far. Conference sponsors and Ag Business Council members include Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) and Merck Animal Health.  

A highlight of the conference will be its lineup of over 25 dynamic speakers, covering topics ranging from sustainability, people management, technology, milk markets, technical herd topics, leadership and more.  

One of this year’s conference presenters is keynote opening speaker Jackie Klippenstein, senior vice president and chief government and industry relations officer for DFA and Ag Business Council board member. Another presenter leading a dairy policy breakout session is Mary Knigge, vice president of government relations at DFA.

“I love this conference! I always learn so much, but more importantly, I get to connect with amazing leaders, celebrate their success and deepen my knowledge of the industry,” says Jackie Klippenstein.

During the conference dinner keynote speaker Brandi Buzzard, owner of High Bar Cattle Company located in Greeley, Kansas, will share her experiences standing up for agriculture by engaging global food companies, the press, policy makers and more, while using trust as a driving force. She will challenge conference attendees to follow her lead in advocating for agriculture by building trust and actively engaging with key stakeholders in the industry. 

"The Forward TogetHER Conference will energize attendees to think about the issues affecting the industry and how they can play a role in leading it forward over the coming years,” Brandi Buzzard says.

A key aspect of the conference is its focus on building a supportive network. Forward TogetHER provides a space where women can come together, share their challenges, and celebrate their successes in a supportive environment. This sense of community is one of the most powerful aspects of the event, offering attendees the chance to build lasting relationships with like-minded women who understand the unique challenges of the agriculture industry.

“The DGN conference brings together women in all stages of their career - current and future leaders - who are successfully navigating complex fields and driving change,” Klippenstein says.

Ultimately, the Forward TogetHER conference is a celebration of the women who are making a difference in the dairy industry and is a recognition of their hard work, dedication and resilience. As the agriculture industry continues to evolve, events like this are crucial in ensuring that women are supported, empowered and given the opportunities they deserve. The 2024 conference promises to be an inspiring and transformative experience for all who attend, strengthening the industry as a whole.

To learn more about the conference, go to DairyGirlNetwork.com and click on National Conference. Both in-person and virtual registrations are available. If you or your business is interested in being involved with the conference or Dairy Girl Network, email Amanda Borkowski at amandab@dairygirlnetwork.com and be sure to share this exciting opportunity with your dairy industry contacts.

Flinchbaugh Center Celebrates First Anniversary, Introduces New Matching Gift

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By Philip Brasher, Editor, Agri-Pulse Newsletter, August 28, 2024

It’s been four years since we lost renowned Ag Economist Barry Flinchbaugh, but a group of ag leaders is determined to see his legacy live on.

As Agri-Pulse wrote in announcing his death, there are a lot of different and talented agricultural economists in this country. But Flinchbaugh was unique in his style, his colorful stories and his convictions. If you ever met him, you wouldn’t forget him.

As a professor and extension educator, Flinchbaugh taught agricultural policy to approximately 4,000 undergraduates and, as a sought-after speaker, lectured at farm meetings around the country. Before his death on Nov. 2, 2020, he served as professor emeritus in the Department of Agricultural Economics at Kansas State University, where he had joined the faculty in 1971. Aug. 17 marked the one-year anniversary of the creation of the Barry Flinchbaugh Center for Ag and Food Policy.

The board of the BLF Center met at Kansas State in Manhattan, Kansas, to celebrate the formation of the center, unveil the new branding and website, and most importantly, talk about its policy work on behalf of the food and ag sector. The board includes former secretaries of agriculture Dan Glickman and Mike Johanns, along with a host of other ag leaders, who have fond memories of the differences Barry Flinchbaugh made in ag policy circles.

"Barry was a consensus builder, knowing the key to sound agriculture policy required one to be a good listener,” noted Glickman, a former Kansas congressman. ”He used to say, maybe that crazy guy who never agrees with me has one good idea to change the world. “He also advised me to focus on a few key ideas rather than try to solve every problem in the world. And finally, he was funny. Damn funny. His great sense of humor was infectious and helped influence people across the political spectrum."

Although the BLF Center will be based in Kansas, its policy focus will be national. The board faced the difficult task of deciding which of many numerous topics confronting the food and ag sectors to explore first, including water availability, the farm bill, environmental policy, and rural infrastructure – just to name a few. For the near term, the top priorities are water, biotechnology and labor.

Matching Gift

James Flinchbaugh, Barry’s son, announced that the family and friends would match up to $95,000 in donations to the center. The BLF Center is not the only place where key ag issues are discussed and debated. There have long been regional policy centers that often analyze issues for congressional ag committees, including the Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute (FAPRI) at the University of Missouri; the Agricultural and Food Policy Center at Texas A&M; FarmDoc, based at the University of Illinois but which also draws from experts across the Corn Belt;  and the Center for Agricultural and Rural Development at Iowa State (CARD).

All these institutions play important roles in providing insight and analysis. North Dakota State University is also working to develop a regional policy center. But the BLF Center aims to differentiate itself by assessing the implications of policy decisions and laying out potential consequences. For example, there could be an analysis of certain changes in the H-2A labor program that key lawmakers can read and make informed decisions based on the findings.

Overall, The Flinchbaugh Center’s goal is to enable thriving, competitive and sustainable U.S. agriculture and food systems, aiming to:

  • Improve understanding of policy alternatives and consequences.

  • Enable informed decisions by policymakers, agricultural leaders, food system
    stakeholders and the public.

  • Ensure that agricultural policies and strategies are based on facts and rational
    consideration.

The center is also working to support the Flinchbaugh Ag Policy Chair at Kansas State and the Flinchbaugh Fellows Program. These are student-focused educational and leadership initiatives with state and national policy engagement.

Editor’s note: Sara Wyant, Founder and President, Agri-Pulse Communication, has been invited to serve on the Flinchbaugh Center’s Board of Directors.

Kansas Aerial Spray Company Strikes Deal With Maker of Pelican Spray

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Pyka, maker of the world’s largest autonomous electric crop protection aircraft, recently announced that Heinen Brothers Agra Services (HBAS), based in Seneca, Kansas, is the first U.S. company to purchase its Pelican Spray plane. HBAS is one of the largest privately owned aerial application service providers in North America. Headquartered in Alameda, California, Pyka produces proprietary technology that includes autonomous flight control software, flight computers, high energy density batteries, advanced electric propulsion systems, and carbon composite airframes.

Heinen Brothers Agra Services will now begin integrating Pelican Spray into its extensive fleet of agricultural aircraft. The addition will enhance its operations across the Midwest, South and Western regions of the U.S., enabling it to better meet peak customer demand through large-scale automation of their aerial application services.

This partnership follows the Federal Aviation Administration’s approval for the commercial operation of Pelican Spray in the U.S. – making it the largest ever Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) authorized by the FAA for commercial use.

“We’ve been eagerly anticipating the opportunity to begin operations with Pelican Spray,” said Lukas Koch, Chief Technology Officer at Heinen Brothers Agra Services. “As experts in aerial application, we see the potential for UAS to revolutionize our industry, offering significant cost-saving benefits to American farmers.”

Pelican Spray is the first autonomous agricultural aircraft that delivers the necessary work rate and spray performance needed to provide a viable commercial solution to begin augmenting the current fleet. “Ultimately,” Koch said, “we want to keep the pilots of our manned aircraft safer, so we are adopting a proactive approach that will allow UAS to handle certain workloads that will get our traditional pilots home safely to their families and loved ones.”

On an agronomic front, HBAS explained, timing is very important for crop health. “New tools like Pelican Spray will help us better serve our customers and their fields,” Koch noted. “These are groundbreaking times, and we hope to facilitate even more agricultural innovation through collaboration with future companies that can unlock even more value from platforms like the Pelican Spray. We are excited for the future of ag aviation and look forward to a long and productive partnership with Pyka.”

Heinen Brothers is a forward-thinking organization that embraces new technologies to enhance the capabilities of American producers and improve the nation’s food production systems overall, said Volker Fabian, Chief Commercial Officer at Pyka. “We are thrilled to partner with them and excited to commence U.S. operations with Pelican Spray.”

Work On The Ground

As it ramps up to lift off with Pelican Spray, HBAS, a nationwide leader in agricultural aerial application and firefighting, has created a subsidiary company – Kelly Hills Unmanned Systems focused on the commercialization of UAS exclusively in the agricultural sector.  

Through a relationship with the University of Alaska-Fairbanks, the FAA approved a nearly 49,000 square mile unmanned aerial systems test range covering parts of four states allowing for advanced drone testing on systems that are not readily available to public users. This privately managed test range will provide a unique opportunity for developers and manufacturers to evaluate the system’s efficacy in a low-risk environment while helping these products reach commercialization faster through collaboration with key parties in the value chain.

“Unmanned aerial application in agriculture is accelerating faster in other countries, than it is here in the United States” Koch said. The Kelly Hills FAA approved test range covers partial airspace in Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and Iowa. The range provides the ability to host fixed-wing, multirotor, and rotary-wing systems testing applications on ten different crops including corn, soybeans and milo. Test range tenants have access to elite private and shared hangar options.

“Heinen Brothers and Kelly Hills are true leaders and pioneers in the agricultural aviation sector,” said Koch. “The company has thirty years of experience with aerial applications. This test range has the potential to drive environmentally conscious innovation, improve safety of pilots, and change the economic dynamics for the American farmer.”

Digging Deeper...

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As you would expect of a regulatory agency whose administrative territory encompasses Missouri, Iowa, Kansas and Nebraska, EPA’s Region 7 is pretty much occupied with agricultural issues.  Speaking this month at Kansas City’s Agricultural Business Council, Jeffery Robichaud, Director, Water Division, Region 7, EPA, said “Agriculture is a top priority for our office; eighty percent of the land in Region 7 is dedicated to agriculture, and our work reflects that.” And, he quipped, Region 7 has loud voices. “We speak out in Washington.”  
By Dennis McLaughlin, McLaughlin Writers LLC. Sources: United States EPA Region 7 2023 Year in Review, published April 2024; Jeffery Robichaud, Director Water Divison, Region 7, EPA, speaking at the .Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City, Monthly Meeting/Luncheon, August 15, 2024. 

EPA Region 7 Grows Stronger and More Resilient

These headline words were used by Meg McCollister in her 2023 Year In Review report issued this past April.  “I am thankful for the progress made thus far and I look forward to what Region 7 will accomplish for our community.” Region 7 will continue to engage in creative, collaborative approaches with the agriculture sector, she said. Identifying opportunities for innovative environmental solutions aimed at protecting public health and the environment is a top priority for the agency. “We want to protect farms and communities from climate impacts.”

Agricultural production plays an important role in anthropogenic (human influenced) climate change, says the Region 7 team. How farming and ranching practices might look in the future is a complex investigation.  “We continued to focus efforts on climate resilience by collaborating with our local, state and federal partners to develop strategies that will best serve our communities,” McCollister said in the Review. Region 7 and these groups delved into analyses of climate in general, lead (Pb) prevention, waste management, agriculture, water, and compliance. “These meaningful discussions are part of our whole-of-government approach to aggressively tackle the climate crisis in our country.”

Last year, Region 7 orchestrated over a dozen climate-smart agriculture roundtables, listening sessions, outreach events, and other external engagements. These gatherings brought together diverse voices on climate resilience in agriculture.  Attendees representing Kansas’ agricultural stakeholders included the Kansas Secretary of Agriculture; Kansas USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Farm Service Agency, and Rural Development directors; the Kansas Farm Bureau President; Kansas members of the EPA Farm, Ranch and Rural Communities Committee; and many farmers, ranchers, and agricultural leaders from across the state. These roundtables further provided a platform for members of the farming and ranching community, along with Kansas state agencies, to voice their concerns, ideas, and experience.     

In the same time span, roundtables took place in 2023 with all land-grant universities within Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska. These meeting focused on exploring ongoing efforts and future needs in the climate-smart agriculture arena to leverage the deep well of knowledge among Region 7’s university partners. Through this collaboration, the roundtable attendees were able to pinpoint potential areas where EPA’s involvement could have the greatest impact on tackling anticipated climate challenges most effectively.

EPA Region 7 is also building a robust network of individuals working at the intersection of agriculture and climate change through these climate-smart roundtable discussions. Jeff Robichaud told Council members at the Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City August meeting, “We need partners in the private and public sectors to get out in front of climate change; it’s a big deal.”

 McCollister says, “So far, this network has proven to be essential for disseminating information about EPA programs and funding opportunities more effectively, ensuring that those at the frontline of agriculture are well-equipped with the knowledge and resources to adapt and thrive in a changing climate.”                                          

Water Infrastructure

Currently, EPA Region 7 has earmarked $379 million for water infrastructure improvement in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska. That’s the Region’s share from a $50 billon pool   created by the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for water projects across the country between FY 2022 and FY 2026. The Region is allotting the grant funding thusly: $168.6 million for essential, drinking water infrastructure upgrades through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF); $128.4 million to the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) in Region 7’s four states; and nearly $82 million to address emerging contaminants like per- and poly- fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in community drinking water across the region. The funding will also support regional communities in upgrading essential water, wastewater and storm water infrastructure, protecting water bodies and public health.

On May 24, 2024, EPA made available to Region 7 an additional $2.9 million in funding (through the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant program) to help communities address stormwater and sewer infrastructure needs. Managing stormwater is critical to preventing contaminants, including untreated sewage, from polluting waterways. Funding allotments available to Region 7 states are as follows:

  • Iowa: $326,000

  • Kansas: $461,000

  • Missouri: $1,567,000

  • Nebraska: $529,000

“This funding is an opportunity for small and financially struggling communities to obtain no-cost grants for critical stormwater and sewer system needs,” said Administrator McCollister. “No-cost grants help to ensure that upgrade prices do not get passed on to utility customers, and that’s a win for our community members.” When rain and floodwaters overrun sewer and stormwater systems, Region 7 explains, they bypass treatment and transport pollution and sewage directly into creeks, streams and rivers. These untreated discharges threaten human health, economic prosperity and ecological function.

Speaking of PFAS Chemicals

At the Ag Business Council’s August meeting, Region 7’s Water Division Director Jeff Robichaud explained to Council members that  per- and poly- fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) showing up on farms is an ongoing, serious issue for the agriculture industry. Robichaud joked that at every talk he has given recently, people want to hear about PFAS. He mentioned that EPA is focused on PFAS manufacturers, PFAS polluters, and federal facilities when it comes to enforcement. He said people are worried about PFAS chemicals, “but farmers and ranchers do not produce PFOA or PFOS.”

While these chemicals can show up in water used to irrigate crops and given to animals, farmers bear little or no responsibility for their presence. The American Farm Bureau Federation recently acknowledged EPA’s efforts to protect farmers from being targeted by activist interest groups. In a recent statement AFBF lauded EPA for saying “it does not want farmers and ranchers to be penalized for a situation they did not create.” AFBF went on to say, “This is a problem facing all of us. Our members, like all families in America, are completely unaware of the PFAS levels on their property until it’s too late because these chemicals are coming from outside sources. As mitigation efforts move forward, it’s important that farmers are not held responsible for the presence of PFAS chemicals, which they did not produce or intentionally use.”