Kentucky corn growers were well-represented
this week in Washington, D.C. at NCGA’s annual Corn
Congress. Delegates from corn states met to discuss
official business such as NCGA Officer and NCGA Board
elections.
Prior to Corn Congress,
a 2-day Corn Communications Summit took place to help bring
all states together on messaging for the current Food and
Fuel challenges that exist in the communications arena. It
is imperative that a well-planned process is in place to
identify and mitigate damages from crises that arise from
corn ethanol opponents. Much was accomplished, but much
work is still ahead.
Some policy work was
taken up as well. There were a few minor policy issues
discussed by the voting delegates. KyCGA did take the
opportunity to make a few Hill visits and share our
organization’s thoughts about a variety of issues that
affect the corn industry. Of course, the RFS and the Energy
Bill was of main concern. Other topics included Climate
Change, rising gas prices, transportation, Farm Bill
implementation, Clean Water Restoration Act and commodity
trading.
Grower leaders had very
productive meetings with several Members of our
Congressional Delegation. Primarily, we issued thank-you’s
for the many accomplishments so far this session. As
Senators and Congressmen are in Kentucky throughout the
August recess, farmers should take the time to show their
appreciation for the outstanding victories that our
representatives in Washington have delivered for farmers
this year.
Save the Date – Ohio
River Barge Tours
KyCGA is
joining with the IL and IN associations to sponsor two barge
tours on the Ohio River to raise awareness about the outdated locks
and dams that are vital to agriculture’s economy. The backups caused
by the river’s depression-era river infrastructure cause the loss of
tens of millions of dollars to agriculture’s shipping industry each
year.
These events will be a great
opportunity to learn more about the mechanics of river transportation
and enjoy fellowship with other farmers and industry officials.
Several local businesses will be in attendance to explain how they
utilize the river, as well.
Tours will originate from the
following locations:
-
August 14, originating from Olmsted, IL (near
Wickliffe, KY). There will be an AM tour and a PM tour.
-
August 18, originating from Newburgh, IN (near
Evansville, IN). There will be an AM tour and a PM tour.
Please call KyCGA at 800-326-0906 for more
information.
There is no cost for any of these educational events,
but registration is required.
Carbon Trading
enrollment deadline – August 15
Anyone who is interested in
enrolling for No-Till Carbon Credits must do so by August 15 if they
want to capture the credits from the 2007 crop year. CCX will only
recognize 2007 credits for contracts that have been signed prior to
August 15, 2008. We will still be able to enroll projects beyond that
date; we just won’t be able to get the 2007 credits. Please contact
KyCGA at 800-326-0906 for information on how to enroll. For more
information, go to www.kycarbon.com
