In The News

Jun 30, 2020

Key Issues: Sustainability

Author: Mark Lambert

National Corn Growers Association is proud to announce Nebraska farmer Andy Jobman has been recognized as one of Field to Market’s 2020 Farmer Spotlight Honorees! Jobman is Vice Chairman of NCGA’s Stewardship Action Team and Vice President of the Nebraska Corn Growers Association.   Through Soil Health Partnership and Field to Market, NCGA works to support farmers, such as Andy, to improve environmental outcomes and advance sustainable solutions across the value chain. Field to Market recognized Jobman on June 24 during its annual Plenary and General Assembly Meeting, recognizing his outstanding leadership in implementing innovative approaches to environmental stewardship on his farm.   “I want someone to look back and say that’s how we want to model our future farming practices,” says 5th generation farmer, Jobman.   NCGA is dedicated to engaging with farmers to advance continuous improvements in sustainable outcomes across the food and agriculture value chain....

Jun 30, 2020

Key Issues: Consumer Engagement

Author: Cathryn Wojcicki

While classrooms have moved into our kitchens for months now, the HungerU, a program platform of the Farm Journal Foundation, has been working to share resources and build relationships that keep issues important to modern agriculture in students’ agendas. By expanding beyond the traditional college-aged audience, the program is finding new ways to build partnerships and utilize online platforms to reach school children. In doing so, farmer investments are being maximized to open even more minds to the importance of modern agricultural tools, such as GMOs, pesticides and gene editing, in farmers’ struggle to feed a growing population.   HungerU was originally designed as an educational and advocacy platform designed to engage universities’ student populations. This fall marks the fourth year of NCGA’s partnership in the program.   To address the need for educational materials parents’ could easily use in their homes and lessons educators could share in the scramble to go...

Jun 29, 2020

Key Issues: Production

Author: Cathryn Wojcicki

This year, the National Corn Growers Association launched its tenth season of Field Notes, a series that takes readers behind the farm gate to follow the year in the life of American farm families. While these growers come from diverse geographic areas and run unique operations, they share a common love for U.S. agriculture and the basic values that underpin life in farming communities.   Now, the series is being presented in an exciting new format that features reports in a short format with insight and provides a real picture of American farm life through visuals.   The corn is doing very well. It was starting to get pretty dry around here. Then, last weekend, we caught an inch of rain. Last night, we got another half-inch to an inch, depending on the field. The rain gave the corn a shot in the arm, and it looks like it’s doing very well right now.” Lowell Neitzel, Kansas farmer (June 25, 2020)   “Our corn crop looks great. It has grown a foot or so since last week. It is...

Jun 25, 2020

Key Issues: Production

Author: Nicole Hasheider/Neil Caskey

The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) responds today to two significant legal developments concerning glyphosate that have occurred this week. First, on Monday, a federal judge in California ruled that glyphosate cannot be labeled as “likely to cause cancer” under California’s Proposition 65, which requires businesses to provide warnings about significant exposures to chemicals that cause cancer. NCGA was a plaintiff in the lawsuit challenging the state’s plans to require all glyphosate products to be labeled with this warning.   Yesterday, Bayer announced that it has decided to settle thousands of lawsuits that accuse a link between glyphosate use and cancer.   Iowa corn farmer and NCGA President Kevin Ross made the following statement in response to these developments:   “Corn farmers rely on glyphosate as an integral and essential part of their weed management, no-till and soil health plans. It has been on the market for more than 40 years and undergone extensive...

Jun 24, 2020

Key Issues: Sustainability

Author: Liz Friedlander

The U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry today held a hearing to review the Growing Climate Solutions Act of 2020 (S. 3894). The bipartisan legislation addresses the potential for agriculture to serve as a critical climate solution by making it easier for producers to participate in climate-smart practices, navigate carbon markets and earn extra income through carbon sequestration. NCGA has endorsed the bill.   The committee heard from witnesses representing varied agriculture industries, including Brent Bible, a corn and soybean farmer and Soil Health Partnership (SHP) participant from Lafayette, Ind.   “Agriculture has a tremendous opportunity to lead by example with impactful, common-sense climate solutions. Farmers are vital partners in stabilizing the climate and increasing resilience to climate impacts we can’t avoid,” Bible told the Committee.   The Growing Climate Solutions Act will:   Create an Online “One Stop Shop” for Producers and...

Jun 24, 2020

Key Issues: Farm Policy

Author: Liz Friedlander

The U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry today approved the United States Grain Standards Reauthorization Act of 2020. The legislation sets the framework for the functioning of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Federal Grain Inspection Service.   NCGA joined a coalition of other farm and commodity organizations in a letter to Committee leaders urging they act swiftly to finalize the reauthorization process.   “The United States’ grain inspection system provides certainty to our foreign customers that all U.S. grains and oilseeds have been inspected and certified by an independent agency and provides great value to U.S. commodities, thereby enhancing our competitiveness in the world market,” the groups wrote.   The United States Grain Standards Act (USGSA) is set to expire at the end of September.

Jun 23, 2020

Key Issues: SustainabilityPollinators

Author: Mark Lambert

National Pollinator Week is June 22-28, 2020, so it is an excellent time to think about the best management practices you have in place to protect critical pollinators like honeybees and Monarch butterflies. It all starts with awareness.   Experts say talking to neighbors, applicators and nearby beekeepers goes a long way toward protecting pollinators from unintended pesticide exposure. To make sure you have the bases covered on the latest best management practices, be sure to check out this publication funded by your state checkoff investment.   Pollinator Week, approved by the U.S. Senate 13 years ago, is designated as a time to not only celebrate pollinators (such as bees, birds, butterflies, bats and beetles) but also a time to address what can be done to protect pollinators and their habitats.   Your Corn Grower organization engages in pollinator education all year round. It works cooperatively with The Honey Bee Health Coalition, Farmers for Monarchs, and the

Jun 22, 2020

Key Issues: Production

Author: Cathryn Wojcicki

This year, the National Corn Growers Association launched its tenth season of Field Notes, a series that takes readers behind the farm gate to follow the year in the life of American farm families. While these growers come from diverse geographic areas and run unique operations, they share a common love for U.S. agriculture and the basic values that underpin life in farming communities.   Now, the series is being presented in an exciting new format that features reports in a short format with insight and provides a real picture of American farm life through visuals.   “I am happy with the way our crop is looking now. It’s between knee- and waist-high and coming along nicely. 75 to 80 percent of corn is in excellent condition. The rains have been spotty. We had 3/10 of an inch of rain yesterday. One mile south, they had a full inch and another mile south 2 ½ inches. So, we’re sitting well on moisture.” Bryan Biegler, Minnesota farmer   “The crop had been incredible until the...

Jun 19, 2020

Key Issues: Production

Author: Mark Lambert

June 22 launches the third annual Pest (Pest Elimination Strategies and Tactics) week, and NCGA urges you to turn your pest practices into best practices by downloading the ultimate mobile tool at www.iwilltakeaction.com/app or @TakeActionWeeds in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.   Pest week is a one-week effort to boost awareness around the Take Action program, resistance issues and resistance management best practices. With 161 herbicide-resistant weed species reported in the U.S., there has never been a better time to tackle tough test issues.   NCGA, with the investment of state corn grower checkoff dollars, and Soy checkoff partnered on the development of the Take Action Pesticide Resistance Management Program to building awareness of the best ways to handle weeds, insects and diseases in your field this growing season. You can learn a lot more here.   Mid-season is a crucial time of year for weeds, insects and diseases, so it is a great time to tackle...

Jun 18, 2020

Author: Cathryn Wojcicki

The National Corn Growers Association’s Corn Board elected Chris Edgington to become the organization’s first vice president for the next fiscal year, which begins October 1.   “It is an honor and a privilege to be chosen by respected colleagues to help lead NCGA into the future,” said Edgington, who farms in Iowa. “The landscape facing farmers today is constantly evolving and presents new challenges and opportunities rapidly. Only by working collaboratively with our partners in industry, government, and the public can we grow markets for our growing crop. I am excited to be working with our leadership and our partners to develop new, effective ways to ensure a bright future for U.S. corn farmers.”   Edgington raises corn and soybeans along with his dad, brother and son. Chris and his wife, Vanessa, have two children, Alex and Elizabeth. In addition to his row crop operation, he gains insight into livestock through a small business run by his son.   “NCGA’s success has been...

Jun 18, 2020

Key Issues: Production

Author: Mark Lambert

As summer begins, the National Corn Growers Association reminds farmers to register early for NCGA’s National Corn Yield Contest and save big on entry fees. Until June 30, fees will be reduced to $75. NCGA reminds growers that a small amount of time investment now saves money later this summer.   To enter today using the online form, click here.   Entry will remain open at the full rate of $110 through August 15, 2020. All harvest forms will be due by November 30. The contest winners will be announced on December 14.   The premier event of every corn growing season since 1965, the National Corn Yield Contest offers challenges and rewards to each entrant! In 2019, 7,454 growers accepted the challenge to their corn production skills knowledge by competing with proven winners to reach the ultimate goal of being named CHAMPION.   NCGA wants to challenge you to take advantage of this opportunity to explore new ideas and production technologies while gleaning knowledge to enhance...

Jun 17, 2020

Key Issues: Farm PolicyProduction

Author: Liz Friedlander

NCGA joined a coalition of national grower trade associations today in urging the Ninth Circuit to reject an NGO call to invalidate EPA’s dicamba existing stocks order for three dicamba products whose registrations were immediately vacated by the court earlier this month.   NCGA joined with American Farm Bureau Federation, American Soybean Association, National Cotton Council of America, National Association of Wheat Growers and National Sorghum Producers in filing an amicus brief supporting EPA’s position against the NGO petition. The brief seeks to invalidate EPA’s dicamba existing stocks order and hold the agency in contempt, citing the catastrophic consequences that could result if the NGO’s request is granted.   The grower coalition’s brief makes a case for farmers caught in a highly frustrating and costly situation amid prime planting season and the narrow weed-control window. Many farmers made management decisions and product investments months ago in good...

Jun 16, 2020

Key Issues: Ethanol

Author: Liz Friedlander

NCGA CEO Jon Doggett will join members of the U.S. House of Representatives Biofuels Caucus and other biofuels leaders for a virtual Congressional Biofuels Caucus Town Hall this Wednesday evening. The open discussion will focus on the challenges, opportunities, and next steps for the ethanol industry.   Corn growers can join the town hall live, Wednesday, June 17, at 5:00 p.m. ET/4:00 p.m. CT on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZiI1Rju7L0&feature=youtu.be .   Corn’s two largest markets, ethanol and animal agriculture, were severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and corn farmers are facing an $89 per acre loss for the 2020 corn crop. NCGA is focused on getting these important markets functioning again and supporting growers throughout this difficult time. The town hall discussion will be an opportunity to learn more about these efforts across the biofuels sector.  

Jun 16, 2020

Key Issues: Ethanol

Author: Julie Busse

The 2020 Crappie Masters National Tournament Trail is back up and running, after delays from COVID-19. This year, Crappie Masters has grown and expanded their reach by adding state chapters.   Brian Sowers, the voice of Crappie Masters, says that a lot of new anglers have been involved this year, because of the expansion which has allowed them to spread the message of using E10 fuel in marine engines.   “Having chapters in the south is a very vital part of sharing our message,” Sowers said in an interview with NCGA. “The southern part of the U.S. has been an area that hasn’t been as receptive to the message of using E10 fuel in their boats. Having the teams down there, who can have a one-on-one conversation about E10, is important.”   Sowers went on to say the primary message they share with anglers is that E10 fuel is the better choice, it’s cleaner for the environment and water and gives boaters better performance and supports America’s corn farmers.   The National Corn...

Jun 15, 2020

Key Issues: Production

Author: Cathryn Wojcicki

This year, the National Corn Growers Association launched its tenth season of Field Notes, a series that takes readers behind the farm gate to follow the year in the life of American farm families. While these growers come from diverse geographic areas and run unique operations, they share a common love for U.S. agriculture and the basic values that underpin life in farming communities.   Now, the series is being presented in an exciting new format that features reports in a short format with insight and provides a real picture of American farm life through visuals.   “We finished harvesting 2019 corn on June 1. We finished planting 2020 corn, at least what we could, just a hair before that. Now, we’re planting our edible beans. We grow navy and pinto beans. We had two inches of rain about two weeks ago. Today, we’re planting one more field of edible beans, and we’ll hang it up after that. We’ve planted less corn, in terms of the percentages of acres we intended, in 2019. In...

Jun 15, 2020

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) is kicking-off summer with a new contest, focusing on the benefits of using corn in the feed ration. The contest starts Monday, June 15, 2020, and runs through Monday, November 2, 2020.   “With so many unknowns this year, we wanted to give students participating in their local, county or state 4-H and FFA livestock shows something to look forward to,” said Nebraska farmer and Market Development Action Team Chair Dan Wesely. “That’s why we are calling this the Farm to Virtual Fair contest. Whether you’re able to attend in-person or not, we want to recognize the hard work that goes into caring for and showing livestock.”   To enter the contest, you must follow NCGA (@corngrowers) on Instagram, tag NCGA in the post and use the hashtag #MyCornFedBarn. Participants can enter a photo or video, explaining why they use corn in their feed ration.   “This is an opportunity to engage the next generation of farmers and livestock producers to...

Jun 12, 2020

Key Issues: Ethanol

Author: Liz Friedlander

In a letter this week, America’s top biofuel and farm advocates called on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to offer answers on a new effort to undermine the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). During a Senate hearing last month, administration officials confirmed their consideration of retroactive small refinery exemptions (SREs) covering previous years. The “gap-filings” are designed to reconstitute a continuous string of exemptions for select oil companies “to be consistent with the Tenth Circuit decision,” thus circumventing court limits on new oil industry handouts at the expense of farmers and biofuel producers.   “These ‘gap filings’ appear to be little more than the latest in a string of oil industry tactics designed to subvert the law and sidestep a court order to uphold the RFS,” wrote the National Corn Growers Association, Growth Energy, the National Biodiesel Board, the Renewable Fuels Association, the American Farm Bureau Federation, the American Soybean...

Jun 11, 2020

Key Issues: Consumer Engagement

Author: Cathryn Wojcicki

While CommonGround volunteers across the country may not be hosting large events this summer, they have taken time over the past few months to find opportunities to connect with women in urban and suburban areas for conversations on social media. From building relationships based in common experiences like learning to home school on the fly to sharing the story of farming through COVID-19, these volunteers continue to share the story of American agriculture and bridge the distance from their fields to families’ tables digitally.   You can follow their journey on Facebook at facebook.com/CommonGroundNow.   “I know as a mom, I’m going to make mistakes. I’m going to lose my cool, but at the end of the day, my family’s health and safety are my number one priority. Every parent is doing their absolute best to get through this unprecedented time, and we’re going to get through this together.” Kate Sawyer – Kansas farmer   “My friend and I were talking about the changes in our...

Jun 10, 2020

Key Issues: COVID-19

Author: Liz Friedlander

New analysis released by the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) today projects a drastic drop in 2020 revenues as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic with impacts persisting into 2021.   The latest analysis projects a $59 per acre average revenue decline for the 2019 corn crop and an $89 per acre average revenue decline for 2020, compared to pre-COVID-19 projections. If realized, the 2020 crop year revenue would be the lowest corn revenues since 2006. Residual impacts from COVID-19 on corn prices are very likely to persist into 2021 and possibly beyond.    The analysis was conducted by Dr. Gary Schnitkey of the University of Illinois using projections for 2019, 2020, and 2021 for pre-COVID and post-COVID scenarios. It follows previous analysis built on market numbers to date, along with estimates of state-level impacts, conducted as part of NCGA’s efforts to better understand the economic impact of the global pandemic on the corn industry and work to create solutions to...

Jun 9, 2020

Author: Dusty Weis

  Ep. 8. Gold Medal Olympian Jackie Joyner-Kersee on Urban Farming and Common Ground The JJK Foundation provides hope to kids in the inner city and bridges the urban-rural divide.   The so-called “Urban-Rural Divide” has played a growing role in American life, politics and social issues recently. But it doesn’t need to be that way. Together, Jackie and Jon agree that there’s more to unite us than divide us.   In this episode, NCGA CEO Jon Doggett has a candid discussion with three-time Olympic gold medalist Jackie Joyner-Kersee about her experience growing up in East St. Louis, the issues facing residents of the inner city, and her accomplishments as a world-class athlete.   She also talks about the JJK Foundation’s efforts to educate city kids on the art of urban farming, including corn and soybeans, and the valuable life lessons they take away from the experience.   Learn more about the JJK Foundation        Direct Share Link

Jun 8, 2020

Key Issues: Production

Author: Cathryn Wojcicki

This year, the National Corn Growers Association launched its tenth season of Field Notes, a series that takes readers behind the farm gate to follow the year in the life of American farm families. While these growers come from diverse geographic areas and run unique operations, they share a common love for U.S. agriculture and the basic values that underpin life in farming communities.   Now, the series is being presented in an exciting new format that features reports in a short format with insight and provides a real picture of American farm life through visuals.   “We’re hoping to finish planting by the end of the week if we get lucky. While there’s a little rain in the forecast for later today, it doesn’t sound like enough to impact us significantly. We will finish planting later than we would like, but it’s better here than it was last year.”   Patty Mann – Ohio farmer (June 3, 2020)   “This week, we’ve been side-dressing corn with fertilizer and herbicides. We’ve only...

Jun 6, 2020

Key Issues: Production

Author: Liz Friedlander

The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) is disappointed by the 9th Circuit’s decision to vacate the Environmental Protection Agency’s federal registrations for three dicamba products, Xtendimax, FeXapan, and Engenia. Farmers rely on EPA’s science-based process for developing appropriate and safe guidelines for the use of crop protection products.   NCGA urges the EPA to immediately appeal this ruling and obtain a stay of this overreaching court order. This decision to remove a weed control option, especially in the middle of the season, adds yet another challenge to an already difficult time and sets a concerning precedent.   Farmers have invested in previously allowed dicamba products, EPA should offer clarifying guidance and allow the use of existing stocks. NCGA is working closely with its partners and the EPA to understand the full ramifications of this decision and what options lie ahead for the future of the product.

Jun 5, 2020

Author: Liz Friedlander

The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) today announced that Peter Laudeman has been promoted to Manager of Public Policy, Risk Management and Renewable Fuels in the organization’s Washington, D.C. office. Laudeman has served as a Legislative Assistant in Washington since 2018.   Laudeman’s policy portfolio will expand to include renewable fuels issues, and he will take an active role in advancing NCGA ethanol priorities, including advocating for new Low Carbon Octane Standard (LCOS) legislation and other policies that grow demand for ethanol. His work on risk management issues, with NCGA’s Risk Management and Transportation Action Team, will continue in this new role.   “Peter has been an integral part of NCGA’s public policy work in Washington, D.C., providing policy support on risk management issues and assisting the Risk Management and Transportation Action Team with their work,” said NCGA Vice President of Public Policy Brooke Appleton. “I’m pleased that he will...

Jun 4, 2020

Key Issues: Sustainability

Author: Liz Friedlander

The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) today endorsed the Growing Climate Solutions Act, legislation introduced by U.S. Senators Mike Braun, R-Ind., Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., Lindsay Graham, R-S.C., and Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I.   The bipartisan legislation addresses the potential for agriculture to serve as a critical climate solution by making it easier for producers to participate in climate-smart practices, navigate carbon markets and earn extra income through carbon sequestration.   “Corn farmers have been leaders in adopting farming practices to improve the quality of soil, water, and the air around our farms and are pleased to endorse the Growing Climate Solutions Act. This bipartisan effort recognizes agriculture’s role in mitigating the impact of climate change and promotes voluntary, agriculture-friendly ideas into the climate discussion. NCGA thanks the Senators for their leadership and looks forward to working together to implement a policy that benefits both...

Jun 1, 2020

Key Issues: Production

Author: Cathryn Wojcicki

This year, the National Corn Growers Association launched its tenth season of Field Notes, a series that takes readers behind the farm gate to follow the year in the life of American farm families. While these growers come from diverse geographic areas and run unique operations, they share a common love for U.S. agriculture and the basic values that underpin life in farming communities.   Now, the series is being presented in an exciting new format that features reports in a short format with insight and provides a real picture of American farm life through visuals.   “Our corn crop is finally getting some heat and starting to get some color again. It’s really healthy and growth is taking off now that it has recovered from the cold snap. Soybean planting is a long way from done, but we are making progress every day.”   Lowell Neitzel, Kansas farmer   “Finally, we got the corn sprayed so that it looks like a field and not a pasture. We will have to replant in the...