Iowa Livestock Insider // Winter 2020

WINTER 2020

LIVESTOCK IOWA

INSIDER

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Gab’s Gratitudes

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The Maschhoffs invests in the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers

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About

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The Peyton Post: An Exciting New Decade

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Not your grandfather’s hog house

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Neighbor relations matter in animal ag

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Good neighbor winner emphasizes giving back

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Brothers receive good neighbor award

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Iowa policy passes at NCBA

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Pork producers name youth leadership team at Iowa Pork Congress

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Defend the flock

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Search begins for Iowa’s best burger

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Iowa soybean farmers building their brand during trade mission to Bangladesh, Pakistan

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Calendar

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Tips for handling livestock opposition

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Congress ratifies USMCA: A great start to 2020 for corn farmers

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Midwest Dairy announces inaugural class for dairy experience + agricultural leadership program

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A turkey does not equal a cow

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IOWA LIVESTOCK INSIDER WINTER 2020

GAB’S GRATITUDES

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his is 2020. This is the future of farming. Are you here for it?

Agriculture is constantly changing, evolving, adapting. And for that, we are thankful.

Our team knows that with change comes challenges, but we are here to help! Whether you want to expand your current operation, kickstart a new one, or diversify, the Coalition has your back.

Thanks to you, our audience, for turning the page on the Iowa Livestock Insider’s fresh, new look!

We are thankful for the continued support from our stakeholders, partners + friends. Without you, none of what we do would be possible.

As the seasons change, we look forward to sharing what the Coalition is up to + how the ag industry changes as a whole!

And remember, be grateful.

Gabby Glenister IOWA LIVESTOCK INSIDER WINTER 2020

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NEW SPONSOR

The Maschhoffs invests in the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers T he Maschhoffs, a fifthgeneration hog producing family headquartered in Carlyle, Illinois, affirms its support of Iowa agriculture through an investment in the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers (CSIF).

Brian Waddingham, executive director of the Coalition, says The Maschhoffs have been a long-time

supporter of our efforts to work with farm families.

“We’re extremely grateful for The Maschhoffs investment in the Coalition and appreciate their support of Iowa agriculture. “The agriculture industry remains a vital part of Iowa communities and Iowa’s 86,104 family farms continue to be a key driver of Iowa’s economy.”

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ith roots dating back to 1851 in southern Illinois, The Maschhoffs has preserved its family culture throughout its history. The Carlyle, Ill., headquarters is located just up the road from the family farm. The company has over 100 years of hog production experience, with a focus on creating environmentally and economically sustainable hog production systems. Visit themaschhoffs. com for more information.

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Family Focus

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ayne and Ben (pictured left) managed a mixed-crop/livestock enterprise that was common in those days. In 1961, Wayne and Marlene became the owners of a new 700-head finishing barn. Until that point, the Maschhoff family’s pigs were all raised outside. Wayne and Marlene’s entrepreneurial spirit continued to push the family farm further throughout the 1970s. That spirit took the next evolutionary step in the form of sons Dave and Ken.

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oday, the business finds itself in a unique position. It is the fourth largest hog production company in North America. And, yet, the family values remain embedded in the culture. Dave and his wife Karen, along with Ken and his wife Julie, are the sole owners of the company. The hard work and dedication they bring to the company every day are at the forefront as their employees continue to embody the family’s core values in their actions.

Complete history from themaschhoffs.com Photo // The Maschhoffs

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STAFF Brian Waddingham Executive Director Kent Mowrer Senior Field Coordinator Gabby Glenister Assistant Field Specialist Peyton Schmitt Communications Intern

PARTNERS Iowa Beef Industry Council Iowa Cattlemen’s Association

HELLO

Iowa Corn Grower’s Association Iowa Farm Bureau Federation Iowa Pork Producers Association Iowa Poultry Association Iowa Soybean Association Iowa Turkey Federation Midwest Dairy

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5400 University Ave. West Des Moines, Iowa 50266 800.932.2436 supportfarmers.com

THE PEYTON POST

AN EXCITING NEW DECADE

by Peyton Schmitt, Communications Intern While the start of each new year is exciting, the start of a new decade brings even more anticipation about what it will hold. During my time thus far at the Coalition, I’ve seen the growth and innovation we’ve attained over the past decade – including the culmination of over a decade’s worth of efforts with our fifteen-year anniversary. This attitude of continuous improvement makes me incredibly eager to see what the year 2020, and the coming decade, will bring for the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers.

From successful open houses and deserving Good Farm Neighbor Award winners, to a Farming for the Future Conference which focused on allowing producers to feel prepared for the new challenges and changes their operations might face, CSIF kept busy during 2019. It’s no surprise that the team at the Coalition is already preparing to stay just as busy throughout 2020. With a slate of excellent Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award events planned, sharper focus on communication efforts, and continued collaboration with great farmers across the state of Iowa, the Coalition is prepared for another great year.

Through opportunities like planting trees with the Green Farmstead Partner Program, being proactive in their approach to rules and regulations, and investing in the importance of neighbor relations, farmers are prepared to work sustainably and responsibly as we enter this new decade.

When one considers the Coalition’s history to this point, it’s hard not to be optimistic when picturing where it will be at ten years from now. Of course, the coming decade will bring new challenges in agriculture, but it will also bring dedicated farmers ready to overcome them, with the support of groups like CSIF aiding them in doing so. I cannot wait to see the growth that the Coalition and the producers we support will achieve throughout the next decade, and I encourage you to feel a sense of excitement about what the next ten years will bring as well.

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NOT YOUR GRANDFATHER’S HOG HOUSE

by Terri Queck-Matzie for CSIF. Queck-Matzie is a freelance writer from Greenfield, Iowa.

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he latest addition to Kyle Halls’ farm sits just south of Osceola along the picturesque Jefferson Highway Heritage Byway, a primary national north-south freight route prior to construction of the Interstate system.

Halls’ 2,400-head feeder to finish hog unit sits well back from the road, and boasts the latest in hog barn design. He consulted the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers (CSIF) for siting and neighbor relations advice.

Halls considers the unit an investment in his, and his children’s, future.

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I HAVE THREE YOUNG CHILDREN,” SAYS HALLS. “I WANT THEM TO BE ABLE TO JOIN IN THE FARMING OPERATION WHEN THEY’RE OLD ENOUGH AND BE ABLE TO MAKE A GOOD LIVING.“

At age 34, Halls has firm ag roots and his eye on the future. He’s been farming with his father and raising cattle since he was 16. He has spent the past 17 years working off the farm as a lineman for the local REC, a job he loves, but not

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as much as he loves farming. He plans to leave the position for full time on the farm this spring. He also owns and operates heavy construction equipment for hire and completed his own dirt work on the hog unit site.

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I GUESS YOU COULD SAY FARMING’S BEEN IN MY BLOOD SINCE I WAS A KID PLAYING WITH MY TOY TRACTOR ON THE FLOOR,” SAYS HALLS. “NOW, I’VE WORKED MY WAY UP TO THE BIG TRACTOR.”

The feeder to finish barns will enable him to double stock, moving the young pigs as they reach 55 pounds, according to DNR regulations. Having the hog barn really penciled out,” says Halls, “and the workload is still manageable.”

NEW CONSTRUCTION, NEW DESIGN The buildings are state of the art. Solid sidewalls replace the commonly used curtains, with windows for light that open if needed. The solid walls increase energy efficiency, with 50-60 percent reductions in LP use reported by other operators, according to Integrity Builders & Supply Inc. reps.

The design also enhances biosecurity. “This design is ideal for odor mitigation,” explains CSIF Senior Field Coordinator Kent Mowrer, who also helped with siting selection and regulations. “The goal is to mix odor and air as quickly as possible.

This system optimizes that approach.” Halls plans to tap CSIF’s Green Farmstead Partner Program to install a windbreak of trees and shrubs once all construction work is complete to further enhance energy efficiency and odor mitigation.

The building’s gating system allows for flexibility for staging and pig comfort, and rapid exit for loading. The slatted concrete floor covers 8 feet of storage that holds enough manure to fertilize 200-250 acres of corn. Variable speed electric fans move air.

But the shining feature of the unit is its automated central control panel that monitors lighting, temperature and ventilation – all from the barn’s office or Halls’ smart phone.

He can reset the building’s thermostats from off-site after loading out pigs, troubleshoot problems highlighted in text messages from the system, or view activity at the building and grounds.

A back-up generator provides added environmental protection.

“This isn’t just a hog barn, it’s a $700,000 high-tech investment,” says Halls. “It’s not your grandfather’s hog house.”

GOOD NEIGHBORS As a swine partner, Halls chose Maschhoffs, a fifth generation hog producing family headquartered in Carlyle, Illinois. The largest network of family owned pig farms in North America focuses on their production partners’ farm diversity.

Company representative Chad Heisdorffer proved to be a valuable asset when navigating neighbor relations as well. He worked with Halls and Mowrer to organize a neighborhood meeting at Halls’ home with himself and Integrity Builders experts present to answer questions.

All were present on December 20 for an open house hosted by CSIF. Around 175 neighbors and stakeholders attended to dine on pork sandwiches and see the finished facility a mere two days before the first pigs arrived.

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That was the day Halls had been waiting for.

MY PARENTS CREATED THE OPPORTUNITY FOR ME TO FARM AND WORK ALONGSIDE THEM,” SAYS HALLS. “NOW I GET TO DO THAT FOR MY KIDS. I CAN’T THANK CSIF AND EVERYONE ELSE ENOUGH FOR THAT.” IOWA LIVESTOCK INSIDER WINTER 2020

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NEIGHBOR RELATIONS MATTER IN ANIMAL AG I

f there was an overarching theme at the Farming for the Future conference in Ames, sponsored by the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers (CSIF), it was that livestock producers must be their own advocates and tell their own story, or else someone else will tell it for them.

by Corey Munson for the Iowa Farm Bureau Spokesman

This was certainly the central focus of a panel discussion on actions farmers can take to protect their livelihood.

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Managing reputation can help the balance sheet,” said panelist Jenn Crall, director of public affairs for Iowa Select Farms. “Helping the public understand who raises the hogs, how they’re raised, this matters. When we can tell our story, it helps maintain the freedom to operate.”

Two challenging areas identified by panelists were government regulation and potential for litigation by neighbors.

ANDY CURLISS DELIVERS KEYNOTE ADDRESS In both instances, panelists suggested that producers should build relationships with neighbors and within the their community, while being as transparent as possible regarding how and why they raise livestock. This can go a long way to reduce both regulation and litigation.

Concerns with new, existing or expanding livestock operations can arise from disgruntled neighbors.

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Being a good neighbor, an important member of the community, these are things farmers do every day,” said panelist Drew Mogler, public policy director for the Iowa Pork Producers Association. “These are rural Iowa values. Now we’re being called on to tell our story, not just live it.”

We’re in an environment now where if we don’t tell our story, others assume we’re not doing anything,” said panelist Josh Flint, associate director of communications and talent acquisition with The Maschhoffs.

IOWA LIVESTOCK INSIDER WINTER 2020

Talking to neighbors Panelists reiterated advice often shared by CSIF: Talk to your neighbors before adding or expanding livestock on your farm.

“If you’re building or expanding, you need to talk to everybody in your neighborhood,” said panelist Eldon McAfee, an attorney with Brick Gentry Law Firm. “At least you have to try. Then, if you end up in court, you can say you tried, you can say they were informed.”

“Have the difficult conversation, reach out to the hardest person, it will be worth it in the end,” Crall said.

McAfee noted that over the last decade, most nuisance cases against livestock operators in Iowa have either been dismissed or won by livestock raisers. This has changed from the late 1990s and early 2000s when plantiffs tended to win cases, he said.

This trend, McAfee said, is fostered by better communications with a farmer’s community and through farmers stepping up their quality and care standards. In basic terms, if the producer is doing the right thing all the time, then they have a much better chance of winning if a nuisance case is brought against them, he said.

This again comes back to the point that farmers need to be the one telling his or her own story.

“It’s your story, own it. When you own it, it shows you’re proud of it,” Flint said. “Start with social media. Even if you don’t know how to do it, you have friends who do.”

“A lot of people in our communities have questions about what and how we farm,” Mogler said. “If you build a new hog barn, hold an open house before it’s populated.

Modern livestock facilities are a lot different from what most people have in their minds.”

Regarding regulation, Crall said lawmakers are usually reacting to what they hear from the public.

“New regulations don’t just come about because lawmakers are looking for something to regulate,” noted Crall. “Lawmakers’ staff will hear about a problem and hear they have to fix it. And if government fixes something, it’s never good for the producer.”

She suggests being proactive, in addition to reaching out to neighbors and contacting the county Board of Supervisors. Alert them before adding or expanding an operation.

Be available to answer concerns, and do the leg work before starting to move dirt.

If farmers don’t give neighbors a reason to think there’s a problem, that can help prevent unneedregulation,” Crall said. “How we behave now will affect everyone in the future.”

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GOOD NEIGHBOR WINNER EMPHASIZES GIVING BACK

by Tom Block for the Iowa Farm Bureau Spokesman

Building a strong community goes handin-hand with building a strong farming operation for Max Schmidt, an Elma farmer who was honored last week as the first Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award recipient of 2020.

Schmidt owns KMAX Farms, a wean-to-finish swine operation in Howard County. Under his leadership, he’s given several non-family employees the rare opportunity to launch their own farming careers by becoming partners in KMAX Farms.

“It is somewhat unique,” said Schmidt. “When you look back to when I started farming and what it takes today, it’s nearly impossible for a young person to start farming on their own.”

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THE WERGIN GOOD FARM NEIGHBOR AWARD HAS RECOGNIZED 150 IOWA LIVESTOCK FARMERS WHO TAKE PRIDE IN DOING THINGS RIGHT + GO ABOVE + BEYOND AS ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDS + ANIMAL CARETAKERS. IT’S AN OPPORTUNITY TO TELL THE STORY OF RESPONSIBLE LIVESTOCK FARMING IN IOWA, + HIGHLIGHT THE FAMILIES WHO MAKE IT SO SUCCESSFUL.

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IOWA LIVESTOCK INSIDER WINTER 2020

Beyond their duties on the farm, Schmidt also taught his

employee partners the importance of being involved in their rural communities and agricultural organizations.

They have responded by serving in various leadership roles including local school boards, Farm Bureau and the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA).

“If you want to have a strong community, you have to be willing to step up and take part in it,” Schmidt said.

“I have required all of them to take some part in the community. That’s how you build a community ­— by everybody taking a part in it.”

SCHMIDT One of the KMAX Farms partners is Trent Thiele, who wrapped up his term as IPPA president last week.

“Max has given all of us younger producers an opportunity to get started in farming,” said Thiele, who nominated Schmidt for the Good Farm Neighbor Award.

“He’s taught me so many different things, like giving back to the community.”

Schmidt himself is a former IPPA president, giving him and Thiele many common connections across Iowa’s pork industry. In fact, Thiele said it was Schmidt who originally convinced him to get involved in IPPA leadership.

above + beyond Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig presented the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award to Schmidt at the Iowa Pork Congress, surrounded by members of both the Thiele and Schmidt families.

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The Iowa Pork Congress is a fitting event to recognize an outstanding pig farmer like Max Schmidt … in front of his friends and peers for his dedication to animal care and commitment to environmental stewardship,” said Naig.

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MAX Farms uses multiple practices that positively impact soil health and water quality on the land where they grow corn and soybeans. They use minimum and no-till soil management to prevent runoff. They have also added waterways and grid soil sampling to their conservation practices.

KMAX Farms uses precision and variable rate manure applications to ensure that fertilizer is applied efficiently.

In addition to serving as past IPPA president, Schmidt has served in various leadership positions on the county level.

The Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award is made possible with the financial support of the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers. It recognizes Iowa livestock farmers who take pride in caring for the environment and their livestock and being good neighbors. It is named in memory of Gary Wergin, a long-time WHO Radio farm broadcaster who helped create the award.

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by Dirck Steimel, Iowa Farm Bureau Spokesman

Brothers receive good neighbor award Joe and Randy Takes, who raise cattle and row crops in Buchanan County, were presented the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award last week by Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship Deputy Secretary Julie Kenney.

“The Takes brothers have spent many years improving their family’s farm by adding conservation practices and foc­using on animal care,” said Kenney. “The family understands the importance of taking care of the land while being involved in the community.”

The Takes’ livestock and land practices go hand-in-hand as they work to better the land on their farm near Coggon.

They use manure from their cattle to fertilize their crops, and they are continuously re­searching the best ways to apply fertilizer, herbicides and pesticides to meet the needs of their crops while being good stewards of the environment.

Along with their focus on land conservation, the brothers have implemented livestock handling practices in their cattle operation.

Scott White, a neighbor and friend, nominated the Takes brothers for the award.

“These two men are the finest people I have ever met,” White said. “They are good friends, excellent stewards of the land and the two brothers that I never had.”

The Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award is made possible thanks to financial support of the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers.

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IOWA POLICY PASSES AT NCBA

CONTACT: KATIE OLTHOFF // DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS, IOWA CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION, 515.296.2266 The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association returned from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association victorious, after garnering enough support to pass two new interim cattle marketing policies at the national level.

Both policies are intended to provide more information and leverage to Iowa’s cattle producers. The first policy advocates for a “Next Day Cattle Weights” report from USDA, similar to the report published daily in the hog industry. This change would allow the industry to more quickly see national carcass weight fluctuations through quicker reporting via USDA’s Agriculture Marketing Service.

The second policy is related to formula transactions, which have been increasing at an alarming rate over the past few years. More than 50% of Iowa’s cattle marketed through negotiated cash, providing ample price discovery in the region.

Other regions of the U.S., however, trade less than 10% through negotiated trade.

The policy brought forward by Iowa’s Feedlot Council advocates for NCBA to support initiatives to increase transparency in formula transactions and to require Livestock Mandatory Reporting to publicly report the details of formula transactions including the net price, base price, and any premiums.

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“Market transparency is the biggest challenge that this industry has been facing and we have to work with others to find solutions together,” says Matt Deppe, CEO of the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association. “And it doesn’t matter what type of marketing transaction you prefer, more transparency of even historic data like this will assist producers as it relates to available data to better leverage market opportunities.”

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### About the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association: The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association represents nearly 10,000 beef-producing families and associated companies dedicated to the future of Iowa’s beef industry. ICA’s mission is “Grow Iowa’s beef business through advocacy, leadership and education.”

Photo Cutline: Iowa Cattlemen’s Association Executive Board (from left): Tim Meyer, Harlan; Bob Noble, Riceville; Rob Medberry, Volga; Justin Rowe, Dallas Center; Craig Moss, Hull; President Richard Godfrey, Henderson

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PORK PRODUCERS NAME YOUTH LEADERSHIP TEAM AT IOWA PORK CONGRESS A

bby Bean, Marathon; Alexis Berte, Algona; and Caleb Hogan, Monticello, are the 2020 Iowa Pork Youth Leadership Team. They were selected from a field of 13 contestants during the Iowa Pork Congress last week.

The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) sponsors the contest, which includes interviews, demonstrations of their outreach skills, and testing on their knowledge of pork and pig production. They also were judged on their community involvement and experience. The top female contestant is crowned pork queen, and the top remaining contestants, male or female, are named youth ambassadors.

Bean, a senior at Sioux Central High School in Sioux Rapids, will reign as the 2020 Iowa Pork Queen. Berte and Hogan are Pork Ambassadors.

Each receives a $4,000 scholarship and plaque noting their award.

But according to their predecessors, the most valuable things they will gain are the many growth and leadership opportunities provided by these positions. Over the next year, they will participate in public activities promoting pork and pig production, from county activities around Iowa to the Iowa State Fair, World Pork Expo, and events in Washington, D.C. Bean, who also served as the Buena Vista County Pork Queen in 2018 and 2019, is the daughter of CJ and Chris Bean of Marathon. After graduating from high school this spring, she plans to pursue a degree in feed science and agricultural marketing. She is a member of the 20192020 Iowa State 4-H Council.

Berte, the daughter of Patrick and Nancy Berte of Algona, is a junior studying animal science at Iowa State University, with plans to go on to veterinary school. In summer 2019, she was a production intern with Midwest-based Christensen Farms, one of the largest, family-owned pork producers in the country. She served as the 2018-2019 North Central Vice President of the Iowa FFA Association.

Hogan is a freshman studying agriculture business at Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids, and he plans to continue his studies at Iowa State University. The son of Dominic and Karen Hogan of Monticello, he grew up helping his dad with pig chores and eventually began managing a 2,400-head hog barn. He currently works as a research assistant at Diamond V’s Research and Innovation Center on Kirkwood‘s agriculture campus.

STORY + PHOTO SOURCE // IOWA PORK PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION 15

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ALEXIS BERTE, IOWA PORK AMBASSADOR

ABBY BEAN, IOWA PORK QUEEN

CALEB HOGAN, IOWA PORK AMBASSADOR

THE FLOCK

DEFEND Learn about preventing poultry disease with the United States Department of Agriculture/APHIS veterinarians and state poultry experts including:

Dr. Julie Gauthier, Assistant Director for Poultry Health and Veterinary Medical Officer for the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Dr. Michael Martin, Director of Poultry Programs, Veterinary Division N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Dr. Tahseen Aziz, Veterinary Pathologist and Diagnostician (Avian) Rollins Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory North Carolina Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory System, North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

DEFEND YOUR FLOCK FROM POULTRY DISEASE: KNOW THE SIGNS + HOW TO RESPOND

REGISTER HERE BIT.LY/ APHISWEBINAR 17

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02.27.2020 2:30PM EST

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Search begins for Iowa’s best burger Contact: Kylie Peterson, Director of Marketing, Iowa Beef Industry Council, 515.296.2305 The Best Burger Contest is not only a great way to celebrate Iowa’s 25,000 beef farmers, it’s also a great way to increase business for participating restaurants and draw visitors to Iowa communities.

“Winning the 2019 Iowa’s Best Burger Contest put our restaurant on the map and garnered new customers from all over the state. We went from serving 200 burgers a week to 200 burgers a night,” says Oskaloosa’s Wood Iron Grille. “Our burgers have always been our best-selling menu item, but after winning the contest nearly every guest that dined at our restaurant ordered a burger.”

The contest is sponsored by the Iowa Beef Industry Council (IBIC) and the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association (ICA) and occurs in two phases. In the first phase, Iowans are encouraged to nominate their favorite burger, whether it’s gourmet or down-home style. Nominations will be accepted between February 10 and March 10, 2020.

“Burgers are such a classic American favorite and a great source of high-quality protein that is authentic, real and raised responsibly. Beef supplies 10 essential nutrients without a long list of ingredients or added sodium.

It’s hard to beat the taste, satisfaction and nutrition you get from a serving of real beef and this contest showcases just that,” says Janine Moore, IBIC’s Chairman.

This is the eleventh year of the contest, which unites beef lovers and beef farmers across the state. After the nomination period, 10 restaurants will be chosen as finalists and visited by a secret panel of judges, who will determine the ultimate winner. The 2020 Best Burger in Iowa will be announced on May 1, 2020 with the kick-off of May Beef Month in Iowa.

Details about the contest, rules, and the voting form are available on the Iowa Beef Industry Council’s website, www.iabeef.org. Burger lovers can also find a link to the online nomination form at the Iowa Beef Council Facebook page; or by texting BEEF to 313131. Photos of your favorite burger can be shared socially using #IABestBurger. The nomination period will close at 5 p.m. on March 10, 2020.

To qualify to be named Iowa’s Best Burger, the burger must be a 100% real beef patty and be served on a bun or bread product.

Restaurants can download a digital toolkit including promotional materials for the contest from IBIC’s website at www.iabeef.org to promote the contest to their customers. The promotional materials can be used in restaurants, online, or on social media. ### About the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association: The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association represents nearly 10,000 beef-producing families and associated companies dedicated to the future of Iowa’s beef industry. ICA’s mission is “Grow Iowa’s beef business through advocacy, leadership and education.”

About the Iowa Beef Industry Council: About the Iowa Beef Industry Council: The Iowa Beef Industry Council is funded by the $1-per-head National Beef Checkoff Program and the $0.50-perhead Iowa State Beef Checkoff. Checkoff dollars are invested in beef promotion, consumer information, research, industry information and foreign market development, all with the purpose of strengthening beef demand. For more information, visit www.iabeef.org.

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Manuwar Manais, production manager and nutritionist for Sindh Feed based in Karachi (left), Jeff Jorgenson right, checking feed quality at Sindh Feed in Karachi, Pakistan. (Photo: Aaron Putze/Iowa Soybean Association)

IOWA SOYBEAN FARMERS BUILDING THEIR BRAND DURING TRADE MISSION TO BANGLADESH, PAKISTAN

BY AARON PUTZE, IOWA SOYBEAN ASSOCIATION

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sk any brand about the importance of marketing, and they’ll promptly reply that first understanding the needs and wants of the customer is essential to making any sale.

The same holds true for soybeans.

Despite a recent thawing of trade friction with China, U.S. soybean exports to the world’s top buyer continue to languish. Increasing America’s share of soybean exports to developing countries, therefore, is a must.

Midwest soybean farmers traveling this week to Bangladesh and Pakistan say building their brand with soybean processors is critical.

Fostering relationships will provide better price opportunities in the near-term while creating preference for U.S. soy among more buyers long-term.

“It takes time and effort to travel, but trust and long-term relationships aren’t made over the phone,” says Tim Bardole

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of Rippey. “Meeting face-to-face is how you build loyalty. We may be buying and selling soybeans, but it’s always about people and how you connect with them.”

Bangladesh and Pakistan, with a combined population of nearly 400 million (or 75 million more than the United States), are good places to market soybeans. Bardole, who serves as president of the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA), is one of 11 U.S. soybean leaders and staff visiting with key ag officials in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad, Pakistan.

Their goal: sell more soybeans by better understanding the needs of their customers. U.S. soy is the preferred feed ingredient for ramping up and improving their production of protein: namely, poultry, fish and milk.

PERFORMANCE KING

The combined population of Bangladesh and Pakistan exceeds the United States (354 vs. 326 million).

(Photo: Aaron Putze/Iowa Soybean Association)

U.S. SOY GOES GLOBAL The trade disruption with China has been extremely difficult on U.S. farmers. But Jeff Jorgenson of Sidney says the dispute between the world’s two largest economies has pushed U.S. soybeans onto the world market in an unprecedented way.

“It’s been very rough in the short-term,” says ISA’s president elect. “But looking at the long-term play, we’re building preferences for U.S. soy in more places.

“One panamax vessel of soybeans is not enough to change mindsets,” Jorgenson adds, “but after a few months and then years of sales, you’ve established your brand.”

Pakistan imports nearly 2.4 million metric tons (mmt) of soybeans. A conservative estimate pegs that total to increase to 3.5 mmt within next 3-4 years. With some changes in government policy (eliminating a 14% duty on soybean meal, for example), Pakistanis in the know believe soybean imports could jump to 5 mmt, and perhaps higher.

Manuwar Manais, production manager and nutritionist for Sindh Feed based in Karachi, is bullish about Pakistan’s future. The country is growing, and metropolitan areas are booming. He also values the personal exchange of ideas with U.S. farmers. He hosted the delegation earlier this week.

Sindh Feed, founded in 1976, operates four crush facilities in Pakistan and the country’s oldest feed mill. It began processing soy in 2014, specializing in bagged feed for poultry, fish and dairy and also exports a small amount of soybean meal.

The company imports 65% of its soybeans from the United States via the Gulf of Mexico; Brazil and Argentina soy makes up the rest.

The Pakistani feed industry, Manais says, is very competitive and quick to adopt technology, including the use of environmentally-controlled housing for its poultry flocks.

An association representing the feed industry established the price that mills can charge for its product. Aqua, poultry and dairy producers decide on where to source feed based on the performance of their animals and fish. Skilled and highly-qualified nutritionists are in high demand as performance of the feed – not just price – is what distinguishes one mill from another.

“Everyone in the feed, livestock and aqua industries focuses on quality,” says Manais. “Many are also friends and they talk. If they don’t get performance, they will change suppliers and get better feed for the next flock.

“Basic nutritional qualities are the first consideration,” he adds. “Our preference is U.S. soybeans because they perform the best.”

But U.S. farmers need to continue to work at their brand. Manais encouraged them to grow and sell a more consistent product. Variability from shipment to shipment adds time and expense for him and his customers.

“With increased production of soybeans there’s a possible decrease in their nutritional composition,” he said. “So, usage in Pakistan and anywhere you have to consider that. Production matters but the nutritional quality must also be good. Develop consistent quality soybean meal and you’ll have a customer for life.”

Taking time away from the farm to meet with soybean buyers nearly half-a-world away also demonstrates that you care about the customer, says Anas Haroon, Cargill’s commercial head and senior trader in Pakistan.

Meeting with the trade delegation in Karachi, Haroon says visitors to his country are few and far between.

Those who do make the effort to jump the Pacific gain an advantage.

“Buyers tell me that visiting with farmers in-person gives them a better feeling,” he says. “You can quickly clear any misperceptions that may be in the marketplace. People here put a premium on relationships.”

The trade delegation includes farmers and United Soybean Board representatives Darren Kadlec of Pisek, North Dakota, and Lance Rezak of Onaga, Kansas, ISA staff members Kirk Leeds, Grant Kimberley and Aaron Putze and representatives of the U.S. Soybean Export Council. The group departed for Dhaka, Bangladesh, on Jan. 30 and returns to Iowa from Islamabad, Pakistan, on Feb. 8.

Contact Aaron Putze at aputze@iasoybeans.com or 515-975-4168.

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Good Farm Neighbor Award Good Farm Neighbor Award

Good Farm Neighbor Award

Iowa State FFA Convention

COMPLETE EVENT DETAILS AT SUPPORTFARMERS.COM 21

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Since 1934, The Iowa Farm Bureau Spokesman has been Iowa’s leading agriculture news source, and today it is the largest circulation ag newspaper in Iowa. While the Spokesman newspaper is available exclusively to Iowa Farm Bureau members, The Spokesman Speaks podcast is available publicly, reaching farmers on-the-go with stories that matter to them.

You can find episodes of the podcast here or subscribe and listen in your favorite podcast app, such as Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Stitcher, TuneInRadio, or Radio. com. New episodes are released every other Monday.

EPISODE 32: TIPS FOR HANDLING LIVESTOCK OPPOSITION

CONGRESS RATIFIES USMCA: A GREAT START TO 2020 FOR CORN FARMERS

PLAY CONTACT // BRANDI SNYDER, PUBLIC RELATIONS MANAGER, BSNYDER@IOWACORN.ORG, 515.225.9242

JANUARY 16, 2020 Today Congress ratified the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) allowing for free trade with our neighboring countries to the north and the south. The bill, which passed with broad support, will now go to President Trump’s desk for his signature. Mexico and Canada are the U.S. corn industry’s largest, most reliable market. In 2018/2019, 21.4 million metric tons of corn and corn co-products were exported to Mexico and Canada.

These exports were valued at $4.56 billion. In 2018/2019, Mexico was the top export for U.S. corn and DDGS while Canada was the top export of U.S. ethanol.

“The United States is set up perfectly to trade with our neighbors to the north and south of us,” said Jim Greif Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) President and farmer from Monticello. “The passage of the modernized agreement is a bright spot for corn farmers starting fresh in 2020 as exports are a key market for corn in all forms. Last year was tough for many farmers who have faced an excess amount of challenges outside of our control. USMCA demonstrates the commitment for trade agreements for the United States, and ICGA will continue to work for the facilitation of free trade with partners around the world.”

ICGA extends a thank you to members and the Iowa Congressional leaders for their continued efforts to see USMCA to the finish line.

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ST. PAUL, Minn. – Midwest Dairy announced today the first class of the Dairy Experience and Agricultural Leadership Program (DEAL), a new initiate that will help develop

the dairy leaders of tomorrow. This 18-month program provides an opportunity for young dairy farmers across the region to gain a deeper understanding of dairy checkoff while strengthening skills for engaging with consumers, conducting media interviews and networking with industry professionals and peers.

The 2020-2021 class of participants was selected using a competitive application process that included written essays and farmer references. These 15 young dairy farmers, ages 40 and younger, represent dairy farm families from across the Midwest Dairy region and have demonstrated a passion for sharing their stories and helping lead the future of dairy farming. Inaugural class participants are: •

Ashton Atteberry, Conway, Mo.

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Josie Rozum, Ely, Iowa

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Pat Bakeberg, Waverly, Minn.

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Megan Schrupp, Eden Valley, Minn.

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Logan Courtney, Chouteau, Okla.

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Heath Snodgrass, Orchard, Neb.

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Dakota Cowger, Peotone, Ill.

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Aaron Titterington, Spence, Iowa

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Angie Hildebrandt, South Beloit, Ill.

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Rita Vander Kooi, Worthington, Minn.

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Andrew Miron, Hugo, Minn.

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Scott VanZyverden, Niangua, Mo.

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Carrie Murman, Glenvil, Neb.

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Ben Yoder, Hutchinson, Kan.

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Tyler Otte, Randolph, Minn.

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MIDWEST DAIRY ANNOUNCES INAUGURAL CLASS FOR DAIRY EXPERIENCE + AGRICULTURAL LEADERSHIP PROGRAM STORY SOURCE // MIDWEST DAIRY

The DEAL program will have three phases, each phase with large group in-person meetings along with local assignments, such as meeting their local Midwest Dairy leadership team members, participating in consumer events and media opportunities.

The first phase will start with a group trip to San Antonio, Tx., February 11-13, 2020, and will be a deep-dive into the role and strategies of dairy checkoff at both the national and regional/state levels. It will also feature workshops and discussions to help the participants hone in on their top strengths and how they can use these talents and skills to help their businesses and the industry as a whole. Following two more phases, each complete with learnings and tasks in between the group meetings, this program will conclude in July of 2021.

“The DEAL program offers a tremendous opportunity for tomorrow’s dairy leaders to stretch themselves and gain the knowledge and skills needed to help dairy thrive,” said Theresa Reps, Agricultural Affairs manager at Midwest Dairy.

“We’re looking forward to helping these young leaders maximize their strengths while they gain a well-rounded understanding of all aspects of the industry, positioning them to be strong voices for the future of dairy.”

Recruitment for the next class of DEAL participants will begin in 2021. For more information visit MidwestDairy.com.

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A TURKEY DOES N Or does it?

We recently had the opportunity to visit a new turkey brooding barn in Sac County, Iowa. The new poults (day-old birds) were set to arrive within two weeks and workers were putting the finishing touches on the barn, the feeding systems, the watering systems, and the ventilation systems. All-in-all it looked to be a pretty cushy place for the birds.

They would have a nice bed of sawdust and straw. They have food and water through automatic feeders. And because the poults are so young they need a high temperature. The barn will be kept at around 95 degrees F! The poults will be raised in the barn until they are five weeks old at which point they will be moved to a finishing barn where they will continue to grow until they are market weight. They’ll be in the finishing barn for another 11 to 14 weeks where they will reach 16 pounds if they are hens (females) or 16 to 24 pounds if they are toms (males). Most, if not all, of these birds will be toms, which is what are predominately raised in Iowa.

When the birds are moved to the next barn, the bedding (wood chips and/or straw) which contains all of the manure is pushed to the far end of the barn and then removed to be composted or applied to fields. The barn is then cleaned and power-washed to get ready for the next batch of birds. This barn was expecting 30,000 birds. I asked at what point they needed to have a permit for manure management and the answer was if they have 116,000 birds. This seemed like a random or arbitrary number. Who decided that you needed a manure permit or application license if you have more than 116,000 birds?

Well, it has everything to do with what are called Animal Units. Animal Units is a scale or a measurement system that can be applied in agriculture – specifically the livestock industry. When scientists are measuring pH they use water

as the neutral of 7. The scale or measurement system goes from 0 to 14. Everything above 7 is considered to be alkaline. Everything below 7 is considered to be acidic.

Similarly, Animal Units has a base or a reference point. One feeder cow (approximately 800 lbs.) is equivalent to 1 Animal Unit. Then the rest of the measurement system is built around that reference point.

Every other animal is then compared to feeder cattle. A mature dairy cow will weigh more, eat more, and produce more manure. A mature dairy cow is equal to 1.4 Animal Units. Sheep are much smaller. They eat less and produce less manure. One sheep is equal to 0.1 Animal Units. And in the case of our one-day-old poults, they don’t eat much at all and don’t produce much manure at all. One poult is equal to .0043 Animal Units.

Photo // Iowa Ag Literacy Foundation

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This system of measurement is very helpful for farmers, especially in grazing situations. You don’t want to overgraze your land and use up all of the available grass.

So when determining stocking rates it is important to calculate how many Animal Units the pasture can handle.

Calves that have just been weaned won’t eat as much as fully grown cows, so you could potentially put more calves on a pasture. But then farmers also have to account for wildlife like deer that might also eat the grass. So in grazing situations, animals like deer are assigned an Animal Unit as well so that they can be figured into the calculations.

NOT EQUAL A COW

by Will Fett, Iowa Ag Literacy Foundation

This Animal Unit measurement is helpful in managing manure. Iowa state law requires commercial manure applicators to be certified. This helps ensure they are properly trained and can help minimize the chances of manure running off fields and into our Iowa waterways. Livestock operations that have 500 Animal Units or fewer can manage their own manure and are considered private applicators. They don’t need a certification (although they should still implement best practices to prevent manure runoff into waterways). Livestock operations that have more than 500 Animal Units must utilize a licensed commercial manure service and be certified. Manure applicators take a training and have to pass a test to become certified.

Photo // Iowa Ag Literacy Foundation

This law applies to every operation with 500 Animal Units. So that could be 500 cows. Or it could be 1,250 pigs. Or it could be 250 horses. Or it could be 50,000 chickens. You can do the calculations yourself with the Iowa State University Animal Units Calculator. These larger livestock operations also need a manure management plan that helps producers identify the amount of manure being produced, the nutrient concentration in the manure, the number of acres that are required for land application and the amount that will be applied to each available acre.

A full grown turkey is much smaller than a cow. So no, a turkey does not equal a cow. But a full grown turkey does equal 0.018 cows!

-Will

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