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Agriculture and the Economy: An Assessment of Our Current Situation Versus the 1980s
The following is a brief analysis by Krista Swanson, the lead economist for the National Corn Growers Association. The recent banking fallout and economic comparisons to the 1980s are likely to grab the attention of anyone in agriculture. Fortunately, the general...
A Brief Check-In from Kentucky Corn Growers Association
I made my usual “quick” trip to National Farm Machinery Show last week. I always try to get in and out really quickly to see a few new things and have some brief discussions on new technology that I am in interested in – but inevitably, I run into some friends and end up closing the place down. I appreciate grassroots leaders from National Corn Growers Association from around the country for traveling in to stand alongside Kentucky Corn leaders at our booth.
Kentucky Corn Growers Applauds Congressman Comer for his Commitment to Remove Barriers to Ethanol
The Kentucky Corn Growers Association (KyCGA) wants to express its appreciation to Congressman James Comer for his commitment to corn farmers and the US ethanol industry.
Corn Management in Kentucky Extension Publication Updated
See the latest version of ID-139 published by the University of Kentucky.
2022 Kentucky Corn Yield Contest Winners Announced
Congratulations to Tanner Stroup (Daviess Co.) and Kevin Hayden (Carlisle Co.) for achieving 300+ yields in this year’s contest.
KyCorn Joins the Nation’s Corn Grower Leaders in Calling on Biden to Set Quick, Firm Timeline with Mexico on Biotech Corn
The presidents of 23 state corn grower groups, joined by the president of the National Corn Growers Association, sent a letter to President Biden yesterday calling for him to take additional steps to address the pending decree by Mexico that would block imports of biotech corn. Joseph Sisk, Kentucky Corn Growers Association President and Christian County farmer, was among the letter’s signatories.
A Look at the Ins & Outs of Washington in 2022
As 2022 draws to a close and the mid-term elections are all but wrapped up, we are beginning to gain clarity on what will be in and out as we enter the new year.
NCGA: Mexico’s Proposed Ban on Biotech Corn Illegal under USMCA, Banning White Corn a Non-Starter in Negotiations
“Any decision to block biotech crops by Mexico would be illegal under the U.S.-Mexico Agreement,” said Haag. “Eliminating white corn will in no way resolve this conflict. We are highly appreciative of Secretary Vilsack for going to the mat on this issue for U.S. farmers.”
KyCorn urges reversal of Mexico GM corn ban
KyCorn supports calls by the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) for Mexico to reverse a proposed ban on genetically modified (GM) corn.
KyCorn Hosts Grain Buyers from Mexico, Southeast Asia
Kentucky Corn Checkoff dollars are invested every day to boost demand through relationships with global buyers. It is important to demonstrate the advantages American grain farmers have over our overseas competitors, like reliable maritime transportation and on-farm investment in grain storage and handling systems.
Kentucky Distillers Set Records for Bourbon Barrel Inventories, New Fills – And Punishing Production Taxes
The number of Bourbon barrels in Kentucky reached a record 11.4 million in January, as the state’s signature industry marked its fourth consecutive year filling more than 2 million barrels – while paying $40 million in discriminatory barrel taxes, the highest amount in history.
Taiwan officials visit Kentucky in anticipation of future corn, soybean purchases
Members of Kentucky corn and soybean associations and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture joined representatives from the Republic of China (Taiwan) at an event September 16, 2022 to sign Letters of Intent for Taiwan to purchase corn and soybean products from United States farmers over the next two years.
Kentucky Corn Yield Forecast Lower
According to USDA-NASS, corn production in Kentucky is forecast at 204 million bushels, down 26% from 2021.
Take Action on Atrazine Now! October 7 Deadline
Can you afford to spend more on inputs? While costs skyrocket, EPA is taking another swing at atrazine, disregarding sound science, transparency, and regulatory framework. Please join this fight with us!
Alarming surprises surface in EPA’s Atrazine proposal
When EPA announced its June 30 proposed rule on atrazine, farmers took immediate notice of EPA’s ultra-low level for atrazine. After examining the extensive documentation posted to the docket, the scenario has gone from bad to worse.
As July Ushers Heat and Controversial Issues into the Nation’s Capital, I am looking forward to a Cool Corn Congress
We will discuss biofuels issues, such as asking lawmakers to co-sponsor the Next Generation Fuels Act, which paves the way to higher ethanol blends in America’s fuel supply. And as the International Trade Commission debates duties on nitrogen fertilizers and the Environmental Protection Agency considers restrictions on atrazine, corn grower leaders will be talking about how critical it is that farmers have access to the tools necessary to continue to do more with less.
EPA Resurrects Radical Atrazine Proposal, Threatens Key Sustainability Efforts
In an unprecedented move, EPA today announced it is reopening the finalized reregistration of atrazine, putting this key crop protection tool and today’s carbon-smart farming practices at risk.
Red Meat Exports Deliver Value Back to Corn and Soybean Producers, Says Study
Record-level red meat exports of $18.7 billion in 2021 had a major impact on the corn and soybean industries, according to an independent study by the Juday Group. The study quantified the returns that red meat exports brought to corn and soybean producers in 2021 nationally, and at state levels for leading corn-producing and soybean-producing states.
KyCorn Part of Strategic Planning to Expand Exports
This week, Laura Knoth, Executive Director of Kentucky Corn Growers had the opportunity to join U.S. Grains Council (USGC) staff members and representatives from commodity checkoff organizations as they came together for the Global Industry Partners Conference.
2021 UK Corn Science Research Report
Read the latest University of Kentucky Corn Science Research Report
Corn Growers Thank President Biden for Counting on Biofuels to Lower Costs, Boost Energy Independence
President Biden announced today that his administration would use existing authority to prevent drivers from losing access to lower-cost and lower-emission E15, a higher ethanol blend often marketed as Unleaded 88.
Corn Growers Call on the Biden Administration to Use Emergency Authority to Maintain Consumer Access to Lower-Cost Fuel
Corn grower leaders from 19 states sent an open letter to President Biden last week calling on him to use the administration’s existing emergency authorities to tap more homegrown renewable fuels, like ethanol, to help stabilize energy markets and lower the price of fuel for consumers. The letter comes as Russia’s attack on Ukraine has impacted energy markets, increasing oil and gas prices.
Chinese Agriculture Officials Visit with Kentucky Grain Producers and End Users
KyCorn and the Tennessee Corn Growers hosted a China Embassy team earlier this month to facilitate conversation about American grain production, transportation, and end use. The trade mission was accompanied by the U.S. Grains Council.
Biofuel & Ag Leaders Call on White House to Provide Relief at the Pump Through Higher Blends of Biofuels
To provide relief at the pump in response to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine crisis while simultaneously reducing carbon emissions from the transportation sector, six farm and biofuel organizations wrote to President Biden urging his administration to use existing authority to allow for the year-round sale of gasoline blended with up to 15% ethanol (E15).
How Does Russian Invasion on Ukraine Affect the Corn Industry?
With a lot of unknowns and surreal times ahead, we are concerned with the future and the people impacted in both countries. We are also closely monitoring how this will directly impact corn.
Faulty Ethanol Study Gets Media Attention, Pro-Ethanol Groups Respond
The Renewable Fuels Association pushed back against the faulty research with a seven-page paper debunking several of the report’s claims.
Yellow Banks Bourbon Promotion is a Hit at NFMS
The National Farm Machinery Show was a great place to discuss critical issues with members and promote the partnership with Green River Distilling Company.
Intensive Corn Management Seminar and NFMS promote productive conversation among growers
KyCorn had a successful relaunch of their Intensive Corn Management Seminar in Louisville this week, as a prequel to the Farm Machinery Show for Kentucky corn growers.
Awards and Recognition from the Kentucky Commodity Conference
See who was honored at the 2021 Kentucky Commodity Conference.
2021 Kentucky Corn Yield Contest Winners
View this year’s winners.
As U.S. Court of International Trade Says It Will Review Amicus Brief on Fertilizer Tariffs, Farmers Call on Companies to Withdraw Petitions for Levies
The U.S. Court of International Trade this week said that it will review an namicus brief submitted by the National Corn Growers Association and other ag groups in a case it’s considering on tariffs of phosphorous fertilizers imported from outside the country.
NCGA Praises Passage of Bipartisan Infrastructure Legislation Important to Farmers, Rural Communities
The House of Representatives voted Friday 228 to 206 to approve the bipartisan infrastructure package, which the Senate passed in August by a vote of 69 to 30, clearing the way for legislation to become law.
Waterways Campaign Highlights Environmental & Economic Impacts
KyCorn is proud to partner with the Waterways Council Inc and others to help audiences understand the importance of inland waterways and efficient infrastructure.
Kentucky Expecting Big Crop Harvests
Corn production in Kentucky is forecast at 268 million bushels, unchanged from the September forecast and up 7% from the previous crop.
KyCorn Leaders Provide Program Updates
We hear great things across the state about this year’s harvest. Hopefully, you are having to drive your combine really slowly! As the new crop comes in, our minds focus on demand and profitability, and we feel it is important to update you on what the Kentucky Corn Promotion Council (investment arm) and Kentucky Corn Growers Association (grassroots advocacy program) are doing to help your farm’s bottom line.
Comer and Congressional Colleagues Support Bill that Would Lower Emissions, Help Kentuckians
An important bill introduced this week in the U.S. House of Representatives, which may soon play a vital role in addressing environmental issues while supporting Kentuckians in rural communities, is being buoyed by support from a congressional member from the Bluegrass state.
Study Shows How Corn and Soybean Producers Benefit from U.S. Red Meat Exports
A recent study showed how red meat exports add value to Kentucky corn.
Farmer Leadership Programs Provide Summer Learning & Networking
July was a busy month for corn farmer leadership training and education programs. Class 5 of the CORE Farmer Program met after a COVID-induced hiatus of over a year. Classmates were glad to be reunited and to learn from each other in Session 6 of the seven-session curriculum.
Look for the Blue Handle at Thortons
Installation of pumps that can dispense E15 at Thorntons Convenience Stores are now complete. Branded as Unleaded88 and identified by a blue handle, dispensers throughout more than a dozen of their locations in Louisville, Lexington, and a few in western Kentucky, will boost ethanol content by 50 percent compared to regular unleaded.
Corn Growers Work to Elevate the Image of America’s Crop
The nation’s corn growers blanketed the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport earlier this summer to elevate the image of America’s top crop and the farmers who grow it. The campaign was organized as a response to the growing negative view of corn’s impact on the environment.
Kentucky Grain Tour Hosts Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet
Grain agriculture organizations came together earlier this month to host a team from the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet
NCGA Releases US Corn Sustainability Goals and Report
KyCorn President Richard Preston delivered the US Corn Sustainability Report to Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Goodman during a Kentucky grain tour hosted by KyCorn, Kentucky Small Grain Growers, and Kentucky Soybean Association.
Heartland Whiskey Competition for Craft Distillers is coming to Louisville, July 22-23
KyCorn is happy to announced that the next Heartland Whiskey Competition will take place July 22-23 in Louisville, and craft distillers from Kentucky are invited to compete.
E15 Coming Soon to Louisville, Lexington, Northern KY and Henderson
Kentucky Corn Promotion Council (KyCPC) has invested Thorntons Convenience Stores for the installation of new ethanol dispensers at 13 of their Kentucky retail locations. The program marks the largest direct investment by KyCPC in ethanol dispenser infrastructure to date.
RESEARCH: Determining the Profitability of Growing Premium Corn Varieties in Kentucky
Across Kentucky, we have seen the rapid expansion in of the staple spirit of Kentucky, bourbon, resulting in increased production capacity and new distilleries entering the market. This expansion provides opportunities for corn producers to supply this market and provide distilleries with locally sourced inputs.
Ethanol is the fastest growing corn market. Period.
The KY Corn Promotion Council puts a lot of energy and effort into finding the best ways to invest farmers’ corn checkoff resources – while, in Kentucky, livestock and poultry rule the day (with exports, or delivery to the Ohio River, closely trailing), nationally there is not a clearer avenue for growth in corn utilization than through ethanol.
Kentucky Pollinator Protection App
The Pollinator Protection mapping program is now available to beekeepers and pesticide applicators.
China’s Corn Appetite Fuels Record Sales, A Boost For Farmers
The U.S. has booked sales of 17.72 MMT (697 million bushels) of corn to China as of Feb. 11, 2021, versus a mere 61,000 tons (2.4 million bushels) at the same time last year – a dramatic turn of events for both the corn markets and the U.S.-China ag trading relationship.
RFA Releases Statistical Reports on 2020 Ethanol, Distillers Grains Exports
The Renewable Fuels Association today released two reports summarizing 2020 U.S. ethanol and distillers grains export and import data. These annual reports provide industry advocates, policymakers, the media and the general public with the latest information on the important role U.S. ethanol and distillers grains play on the world stage.
Spring 2021 OCTC Automotive Technology Scholarship Awarded to Henry Lytle
The Owensboro Community and Technical College Scholarship Committee proudly awarded the Kentucky Corn Growers Scholarship to 4th semester Automotive Technology student, Henry Lytle.
Record Corn Production Achieved in 2020
Kentucky’s average 2020 corn yield was estimated at 184 bushels per acre, which is a record high yield for the Commonwealth.
2020 Corn Yield Contest Winners Announced
Congratulations to Kevin Hayden, of Carlisle County, for achieving the top yield of 324.98 bu/A in the 2020 Kentucky Corn Yield Contest and the National Corn Yield Contest (among Kentucky producers) with DeKalb KDC65-95RIB seed.
A Discounted Holiday Treat for Corn Grower Members
Members receive a 12% discount on the purchase of Cabela’s gift cards. Cabela’s cards can be used for shopping online or at one of their massive retail locations.
Congress Reauthorizes U.S. Grain Standards Act
The U.S. 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. The system provides great value to U.S. commodities, enhancing our competitiveness in the world market, and is a significant advantage for U.S. products versus commodities from other origins.
China Sales Fuel Fast Start to Marketing Year
The U.S. corn marketing year began Sept. 1 and already has 832.7 million bushels of corn sold on the books, including 377.546 million bushels (9.59 million tons) destined for China alone.
UK Fall Crop Protection webinar series begins in November
The 2020 Fall Crop Protection webinars begin Nov. 10 on the video conferencing app Zoom and will focus on new and common threats to Kentucky corn, soybeans and wheat. The weekly webinars will occur at 10 a.m. EST on Tuesdays and are hosted through the Southern Integrated Pest Management Center.
Biofuels Infrastructure Grants to Boost E15 Pumps at Kentucky Retail Locations
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced last week that the USDA has invested $22 million out of the up to $100 million in grants available to increase American ethanol and biodiesel sales. These funds were made available through the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP) to recipients in 14 states, including Kentucky.
Corn Grower Investment in Agriculture Literacy Amplified Through Partnerships
KyCorn wants to thank Kentucky’s farm community for continuing this project that is educating the next generation of consumers.
Next Generation Fuels Act Introduced
The Kentucky Corn Growers Association applauds the introduction of The Next Generation Fuels Act. This legislation, that was introduced yesterday in the U.S. House of Representatives, will boost long term corn demand for clean, affordable ethanol.
Investments that Move Corn
With corn harvest in full swing, it is a great time to focus on how the Kentucky Corn Promotion Council is continuing to invest in projects that will increase corn demand. KyCorn is focused on rebuilding markets for corn farmers by growing ethanol utilization, increasing exports of corn and corn products, finding new uses for corn, and building upon our relationships with animal agriculture partners.
EPA Announces Interim Decision on Crucial Crop Protection Tools
Today, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a long-awaited interim decision regarding the reregistration of the triazines: atrazine, propazine, and simazine. After years of research and public comments from the agriculture community, EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler declared these fundamental crop management tools safe for continued use in controlling resilient weeds.
KyCorn partners with Casey’s General Store for E15 and E85 pump conversions
KyCorn is facilitating several conversions of the fuel pumps at Casey’s General Store throughout Kentucky to enable offerings of both E15 and E85.
CORE Program connects young farmers with association leaders and experts
Session 4 of the current CORE Farmer Program class was held in late-July with farm visits and in-field practicals. The group began the learning adventure in Princeton, where Dr. Lloyd Murdock spent a few hours with the participants talking about Kentucky soils. Dr. Chad Lee spend some time with them in corn fields as well.
NCGA Releases Mid-Year Report for 2020
2020 began with reason for optimism in our industry. The signing of the USMCA trade deal, emerging corn purchases by China, a successful challenge to EPA granting RFS waivers and approval of year-round sales of E15 had us all looking for an economic rebound. Then the unthinkable happened as a pandemic stunned the world.
UK research: cover crops, no-till could slow climate change
Cover crops combined with no-tillage systems can increase soil organic carbon, which could help slow climate change on farms, according to a recent study by University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment scientists.
Linking Agriculture For Networking and Development (LAND) Forums To Be Held This Summer
These forums are intended to bolster existing collaboration between the two sectors to develop and expand upon the existing supply chain for agricultural products to the manufacturing sector.
Corn Leaders Tackle Profitability Crisis During Two-day Meeting
The Kentucky Corn Growers Board of Directors and the Members of the Corn Promotion Council met July 8 and 9 in socially-distanced fashion at the UK Research and Education Center (the Kentucky Corn Growers Conference Room, actually).
Over the Horizon: Commentary by Trend Talk Futurist Bob Treadway
KyCorn asked futurist Bob Treadway to provide the same advice to our members that he provided to the National Corn Growers Association.