NASDA News - November 17, 2009

POSSIBLE CHANGE IN COURSE FOR UPCOMING CLIMATE MEETINGS IN COPENHAGEN
Published: November 17, 2009

With the United Nations Climate Conference in Copenhagen only weeks away and climate change legislation in the Senate still wading through the committee process, President Barack Obama may have to wait until next year to fulfill promises of positioning the U.S. as a world leader on the issue.  While China and the U.S. are in accord that there is an imminent need for an agreement on climate change, it remains to be seen whether any progress will be made in Denmark next month.  

Despite past failure to agree on targets for greenhouse gas emission reductions, the President has high hopes for the upcoming meetings stating, “Our aim there is not a partial accord or a political declaration, but rather an accord that covers all of the issues in the negotiations and one that has immediate operational effect”.  

President Obama has recently come out in support of a proposal offered by Denmark’s Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen, which calls for all countries participating in the climate change conference to develop a nonbinding political agreement that declares the need for emission reductions, as well as provides financial aid to developing countries to assist in implementation.   Many world leaders believe that it will take commitments from the world’s largest emitters - India, China, and the U.S. - before progress on combating climate change can begin.  Ahead of the Copenhagen meetings, several nations have recently made new commitments to greenhouse gas reductions, which include Brazil and South Korea. (By: Ethan Mathews, Contact: David Hickey)

KEY DEMOCRAT DINGS OBAMA ON TRADE
Published: November 17, 2009

The Obama administration came under fire last week from Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-MT), who lamented the administration’s lack of progress on the issue of trade policy.  In a speech given to the Washington International Trade Association, Baucus criticized Obama’s failure to develop trade relations in the Pacific, emphasizing that more attention must be given to Asian countries other than China, which has been the recipient of the bulk of the administration’s efforts.  A strong proponent of climate change legislation, Baucus said he supports a carbon tariff on goods imported from countries that do not make an effort to reduce green house gas emissions.  (By: Ethan Mathews, Contact Amy Mann)

USDA REPORT REVEALS HIGHEST RATE OF FOOD INSECURITY SINCE REPORT WAS INITIATED IN 1995
Published: November 17, 2009

USDA's Economic Research Service's (ERS) has released its annual report on Household Food Security in the U.S It reveals that in 2008, 17 million households, or 14.6 percent, were food insecure and families had difficulty putting enough food on the table at times during the year.  This is an increase from 13 million households, or 11.1 percent, in 2007.  The 2008 figures represent the highest level observed since nationally representative food security surveys were initiated in 1995.  The full study is available on the ERS website.  (Contact: Amy Mann)

COMMENT PERIOD EXTENDED FOR PROPOSED RULE ON INTERSTATE SHIPMENT
Published: November 17, 2009

USDA’s FSIS has extended the comment period for an additional 30 days for its proposed rule to allow interstate shipment of meat and poultry products produced in selected state-inspected establishments. The proposed rule, Cooperative Inspection Programs; Interstate Shipment of Meat and Poultry Products, (docket number FSIS-2008-0039) was published in the Federal Register on Sept. 16. FSIS is now allowing interested parties until Dec. 16 to prepare and submit comments for the proposed rule.

The proposed rule and the announcement of the extension are posted on the FSIS Web site.  (Contact: Bob Ehart)

RIVERS IN CORN BELT SEE DECLINE IN PESTICIDE LEVELS
Published: November 17, 2009

This past week, the U.S. Geological Survey issued a new report stating major pesticides concentration levels have either decreased or stayed the same from 1996 to 2006 in the corn belt rivers and streams.  

The authors of the report cite EPA regulatory actions along with new pesticide products leading to the decrease in concentrations of the agricultural herbicides cyanazine, alachlor and metolachlor. 

According to Skip Vecchia, senior author of the report on this analysis, “The steeper decline in these instances may be caused by agricultural management practices that have reduced pesticide transport, but data on management practices are not adequate to definitively answer the question.  Overall, use is the most dominant factor driving changes in concentrations.”

The corn belt region has among the highest pesticide use in the nation which is mostly herbicides used in weed control for corn and soybeans and found in the region’s rivers and streams.  High concentration levels can affect aquatic organisms as well as the quality of drinking water in high-use areas. 

“Pesticide use is constantly changing in response to such factors as regulations, market forces, and advances in science,” said Dan Sullivan, lead scientist for the study. “For example, acetochlor was registered by the EPA in 1994 with a goal of reducing use of alachlor and other major corn herbicides — acetochlor use rapidly increased to a constant level by about 1996, and alachlor use declined.”

Simizine, used for both agriculture and urban weed control, is the only herbicide that increased from 1996 to 2006. The increased concentration of simizine in some streams suggested that non-agriculture uses for controlling weeds in residential areas were higher than its trend in agriculture production.

Additional information can be found at the USGS Pesticide National Synthesis Project website.  (By: Preston Asay, Contact: Nathan Bowen)

USDA and Justice Department Announce Competition Workshop Schedule
Published: November 17, 2009

In efforts to address competition and regulatory issues in agriculture, USDA and the Department of Justice (DOJ) are conducting several public workshops.  Beginning in March 2010, these workshops represent the first ever joint meetings between these agencies to discuss these topics.  According to a USDA release, the aims of these meetings are “to promote dialogue among interested parties and foster learning with respect to the appropriate legal and economic analyses of these issues, as well as to listen to and learn from parties with experience in the agriculture sector.” 

 Ahead of the workshops, the agencies are requesting comments, which should be submitted no later than Dec. 30, 2009.  For more information regarding the workshops, please visit the Antitrust Division’s website.

 Workshop Schedule:

•  March 12, 2010 - Issues of Concern to Farmers - Ankeny, Iowa
• May 21, 2010 - Poultry Industry - Normal, Ala.
• June 7, 2010 - Dairy Industry - Madison, Wisc.
• Aug. 26, 2010 - Livestock Industry - Fort Collins, Colo.
• Dec. 8, 2010 - Margins - Washington, D.C.

USDA: Dairy prices going in right direction
Published: November 17, 2009

According to USDA’s Nov. 17 Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry Outlook report, the overall forecast for the dairy industry may be even better than previously thought.  The all milk price is projected to reach $16.05 to $16.95/cwt in 2010, nearly a $4.00 increase above the average prices in 2009, which are estimate to average $12.60 to $12.70/cwt.   

 There are several improving factors for the industry providing for the optimistic forecast: 

•  Production Levels: Production in 2009 is expected to decline from 2008, marking the first decline since 2001.  The reduction can be credited to a sharp decrease in dairy cow numbers, which is expected to average about 2 percent smaller in 2010 than in 2009, on top of the 3 percent reduction in 2009 from 2008 levels. 
• Feed Prices:  Corn, soybean meal, and alfalfa prices are all expected to further decrease in 2010.
• Exports:  Increased global demand, coupled with lower milk production in Oceania, lead economists to forecast an improved export market for dairy products.    

OK: EPA FUNDS AID AG AGENCY’S PESTICIDE PROTECTION EFFORTS
Published: November 17, 2009

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved another year of funding to the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry for pesticide programs.  The funds are provided annually under an agreement between the agencies that allows the state to enforce federal pesticide rules and programs.

State agriculture officials say the grant—expected to total over $635,000—is critical this year.

“Given the budget shortfall we’re forced to deal with this year we are especially thankful to be getting these funds,” said Oklahoma Secretary of Agriculture, Terry Peach.  “Pesticide inspections, certifications and training are required by both state and federal law and make up a great deal of our consumer and environmental protection work and we really had to have this money this year.”

During the 2009 federal fiscal year the agency investigated about 500 pesticide incidents or complaints.  Agency records show a total of 79 enforcement actions resulting in over $70,000 in fines.

In addition to helping administer regulatory programs related to pesticides, the funding is also used for applicator certification, worker protection standards and groundwater and endangered species protection programs.

 “We are also able to fund the unwanted pesticide disposal program with the aid of these federal funds combined with registration fees paid by the pesticide industry,” Peach said.  “Last fiscal year we collected and safely disposed over 101,000 pounds of pesticide statewide.  Without this program much of this material might have been disposed of improperly and pose a danger to the environment and public safety.”

EPA has made the first installment of $325,263 and is expected to provide over $310,500 additional funding later this fiscal year.  (Jack Carson, Jack.Carson@oda.state.ok.us)

MT: YOUNG AG COUPLES INVITED TO CONFERENCE
Published: November 17, 2009

Young farm and ranch couples from throughout Montana are invited to the 30th annual Young Ag Couples Conference scheduled January 13-16, 2010, at the Red Lion Colonial Inn in Helena. 

Couples will learn about communication skills, government resources, financial planning, and other aspects of leadership.

Ron Hanson, an agriculture economist and agribusiness professor at the University of Nebraska, is among the featured speakers.  Hanson will deliver a presentation about the need for communications in family farm operations.

The conference is sponsored by the Montana Department of Agriculture in cooperation with Montana agricultural organizations.

To qualify, couples must be actively engaged in agriculture or agribusiness. Participants usually are nominated by Montana agricultural organizations. However, couples who are interested in attending or learning more about the conference can contact Walt Anseth. (Contact: Walt Anseth, (406) 444-2402)

NY: COMMISSIONER AWARDS FEDERAL FUNDS FOR “BUY LOCAL” ADVERTISING
Published: November 17, 2009

New York State Agriculture Commissioner Patrick Hooker today awarded $127,000 in federal funds to 56 recipients of the Pride of New York “Buy Local” Cooperative Advertising Program.  This funding was provided through the 2006 USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program with the intentions to increase the sales and competitiveness of New York’s specialty crops.  The Commissioner also announced an additional round of funding for the same program, which includes $129,000 made available from the 2007 USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program.

“There has never been a more opportune time for the State’s farmers and food processors to promote their locally grown products than now,” the Commissioner said.  “These grants will help enable producers to take advantage of the on-going ‘buy local trend’ by initiating advertising and marketing plans to help further direct consumers to their locally grown products.  If a producer missed out on this round of funding, we are offering the same program again with 2007 funds that we received from USDA.”

The Pride of New York’s “Buy Local” Cooperative Advertising Grant Program was a pilot project of the Department that provided up to $5,000 in matching funds to members of the Pride of New York Program.  These grants were offered on a first-come, first-served basis to help create and develop promotional messages, purchase media time, print space or signage or pursue other promotional activities.  There were 153 applications submitted for the program and enough funding to fund 56 projects. The awards recipients are attached.

With federal funds the State obtained through the 2007 USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, the Commissioner also announced today the availability of $129,000 in matching funds to continue the “Buy Local” Cooperative Advertising Program.  Round 2 of the program will again provide up to $5,000 to create and develop promotional messages, purchase media time, print space or signage or pursue other promotional activities, and will be offered on a first come, first serve basis.  Applications for Round 2 can be found at http://www.agmkt.state.ny.us/RFPS.html.

The Pride of New York program is the State’s marketing program for food and agricultural products grown or processed in New York State.  The program was created to help consumers identify fresh, high-quality New York State products where they shop.  The Pride of New York also assists farmers and food processors in branding their products by using the Pride of New York emblem, and encourages retailers and restaurants to highlight the New York State products they use and sell by displaying the emblem. To find out more about the Pride of New York Program, call 1-800-554-4501 or visit http://www.prideofny.com.

The federal funds used for this program were targeted to promote specialty crops, which include fruits and vegetables, maple, honey, wine, horticulture and nursery crops.  Specialty crops generate $1.34 billion annually in New York and make up one-third of the State’s total agricultural receipts.  They also rank high nationally in both production and economic value.  For example, New York is the second largest state in the nation for apples, cabbage and maple syrup; third for grapes and cauliflower; and fourth for tart cherries, pear, snap beans and sweet corn. (Contact: Jessica Chittenden Ziehm, (518) 457-3136)

KY: AG COMMISSIONER RICHIE FARMER: GIVE THANKS FOR OUR FARMERS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
Published: November 17, 2009

At this special time of year, my family and I like to pause to give thanks for our many blessings.  This season is known for the fall harvest and bountiful meals with friends and family, so it is especially appropriate to give thanks for Kentucky’s farmers.

Kentucky’s farmers – and those throughout America – produce the food and fiber we all depend on.  Thanks to their skill, ingenuity and hard work, we are blessed with the safest, most abundant and most affordable food supply in the world.

The average American farmer feeds 144 people.  American farmers produce a variety of foods unmatched anywhere on Earth, making it possible for us to have the wholesome, balanced meals we need to survive and thrive.

Right here in Kentucky, our farmers produce a growing diversity of crops and livestock.  Their experience and expertise enable them to make the most of Kentucky’s temperate climate and rich, fertile soils.  Some of them run family farms that have been fixtures in their communities for generations, even centuries.  They feel a deep kinship with the soil they work and the consumers they serve.

Many Kentucky farmers market their products with help from the Kentucky Proud farm marketing program.  Kentucky Proud has put millions of dollars in the pockets of Kentucky farmers in the last five years, enabling their operations to continue and even prosper.  Kentucky Proud also helps consumers find Kentucky-raised or -processed foods that they can serve to their families with confidence. 

Farmers contribute to our local and state economy. Kentucky farmers took in a record $4.7 billion in cash receipts in 2008, and agriculture as a whole accounts for more than a quarter of Kentucky’s economic activity.  Agriculture puts thousands of Kentuckians to work in our rural communities as well as our urban areas.

Farmers are our relatives, friends and neighbors.  Many of them are leaders in our churches, schools and communities.  Young farmers and students in 4-H and FFA will play a vital role in Kentucky’s progress and prosperity for years to come.

In the spirit of the season, I hope you will join me in giving thanks for farmers and asking for rich blessings upon them that they may continue their noble and essential work.  (Contact: Bill Clary, (502) 564-1137)

IL: AG TRADE MISSIONS AID ILLINOIS’ LIVESTOCK INDUSTRY
Published: November 17, 2009

Trade missions led by the Illinois Department of Agriculture the past three months have produced immediate results, generating almost half a million dollars in business for the state’s livestock industry.

The most recent sale was completed just last week when a dairy operation in the Mexican state of Aquascalientes accepted a shipment of 226 Holstein cattle from a farm in west-central Illinois.  The sale resulted from a buyer’s mission held in late September and early October in conjunction with the department’s Dairy Industry Tour. Separate Panamanian and Dominican swine missions in August also led to sales, with pig farmers in both countries buying 76 head of breeding stock. 

“These sales could not have come at a better time because our livestock industry is suffering through an economic crisis,” Agriculture Director Tom Jennings said.  “Now, the challenge is to turn these sales into repeat business that will help insulate the industry against future economic slowdowns.”

The department has held eight trade missions this year specifically intended to find markets for Illinois livestock and livestock products.  The missions brought 34 buyers from seven countries to shop Illinois and have generated sales of more than $1 million thus far, including deals that are still pending.

“The rate of return on our marketing activities is outstanding,” Jennings said.  “Every dollar that we spend generates $174 in sales, making the program a sound investment in both Illinois agriculture and the Illinois economy.”

The department has scheduled two additional trade missions before the end of the year.  A group of Costa Rican swine buyers will visit in November, followed by a group of Mexican swine buyers in December.  (Contact: Jeff Squibb, (217) 558-1546)

WI: HIGH-TECH PLANS FOR AGRO-TERRORISM RESPONSE WIN FEDERAL GRANT FOR WISCONSIN
Published: November 17, 2009

TIGER, a high-tech tool to help investigate if terrorists were to strike Wisconsin’s vital food industry, has received one of only four grants awarded by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to encourage new ways to protect the nation’s food system from agro-terrorism.

The FDA has awarded a $62,500 Innovative Food Defense grant for the TIGER project to the Food Safety Division, housed in the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.

TIGER stands for Terrorist Incident GIS-Enhanced Response.  GIS, or geographic information system, would be the centerpiece of TIGER.  The department’s own GIS and food safety staff will develop a computer program using licensing and inspection information to develop computer maps that track where contaminated food may have been distributed. The intent is to make the information accessible not only to the department’s inspectors, but also to the affected businesses and other health agencies involved.

“This would help minimize the public health threat and the economic damage of an attack on Wisconsin’s food production and distribution system,” said Division Administrator Steve Ingham. “It would speed the effort to track down potentially contaminated food, better protecting consumers, and to clear food manufacturing facilities so they could reopen for business.”

 The system could eventually be made available to other states, and elements of it could also be used in more common food safety emergencies, such as natural disasters or food-borne illness outbreaks.

 “Wisconsin’s wide array of food-related businesses provides an excellent opportunity to develop and test new systems for food defense,” the grant application says in part. “Food manufacturing is Wisconsin’s largest manufacturing industry, generating gross annual sales of approximately $10 billion and employing 62,000 people statewide. Ore-Ida, Kraft, Sargento, Ocean Spray, Nabisco and Kikkoman Foods, as well as numerous small specialty producers are located in Wisconsin.”

 The Food Safety Division issues more than 30,000 food-related licenses annually, including dairy farms and plants, food processors, warehouses, and grocery stores. This does not include restaurants and food service operations licensed by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, and food processors and meat plants that are licensed by federal authorities.

 The Food Safety Division is integrated into the state’s homeland security and emergency response system, which the Homeland Security Council coordinates. The council’s strategy identifies food and agriculture as critical infrastructure, and this grant will complement other homeland security grant projects such as one to analyze the state’s food system and efforts to integrate the private sector into emergency response plans.

Other Innovative Food Defense grants went to California, New York, and North Carolina.  (Contact: Donna Gilson, (608) 224-5130)