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UK ag economists offer info for farmers dealing with financial challenges
University of Kentucky agricultural economists are offering information for producers dealing with financial pressures after several years of downturn in the industry.
USMCA: Market Access for US Corn
To ensure American farmers continue to have access to these important export markets, the new U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) needs to be ratified.
NCGA Submits WOTUS Comments
The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) this week submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Army Corps of Engineers on the Agencies’ proposed rule revising the definition of waters of the United States, or WOTUS.
2017 Ag Census Gives Updated Snapshot of Kentucky and US Corn
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today released the results of the 2017 Census of Agriculture. We’re reporting highlights for US and Kentucky corn production.
Maximizing Value: Spring Application of Broiler Litter for Grain Crop Production
Since the value of broiler litter is dynamic and always changing, a decision tool is available so grain producers can enter soil test data, nutrient content of measured litter, commercial fertilizer prices, and management practices to determine the value of boiler litter.
NCGA Provides Comments on Farm Bill’s Trade Programs
NCGA encouraged USDA to consult closely with both Congress and agriculture stakeholders to ensure the positive changes to the Market Access Program (MAP) and the Foreign Market Development (FMD) Program are implemented as Congress intended.
China Purchases US Corn
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service announced Friday, March 22 an export sale of 300,000 metric tons of U.S. corn to China.
Farmers and Monarchs: Perfect Together
To save the monarch, we need about 2.5 million acres of habitat across the Midwest, according to the Fish and Wildlife Service. Farmers manage much of this region, making them among the most important partners to help restore and enhance this vital habitat.
EPA Proposes Rule for Year-Round E15
On March 12, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed regulatory changes to allow gasoline blended with up to 15 percent ethanol (E15) to take advantage of the 1-psi Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) waiver for the summer months that has historically been applied only to E10.
Leading Agriculture Organizations Endorse USMCA
The National Corn Growers Association, American Soybean Association, National Association of Wheat Growers and National Sorghum Producers today announced their support for the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
NCGA-USMEF Study Highlights the Value to Corn Producers Through Red Meat Exports
The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) partnered with the U.S. Meat Export Federation to update a study on the value of red meat exports to domestic U.S. corn growers. In 2018, the study showed beef and pork exports used a combined total of 14.9 million tons of corn and DDGS, which equates to an additional 459.7 million bushels of corn produced – an increase of 29 percent over the 2015 projections.
New Study Reaffirms the Environmental Benefits of Ethanol
The growing body of research on the environmental benefits of the Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS2) just got bigger. A statement released last week highlights some of these benefits including improved air quality and public health.
Grower Leaders Hone Skills in Nation’s Capital
Kentucky’s Mark Roberts was among the several corn farmers from across the country that visited Washington this week to take part in the second phase of the annual leadership development programs co-sponsored by the National Corn Growers Association and Syngenta.
Crop Marketing and Management Update
This month’s update form Dr. Todd Davis includes projected profitability and break-even analysis, impact for storage, risk management opportunities, balance sheets, and more.
Photos from the 2018 Kentucky Corn Yield Contest
Kentucky Corn Yield Contest winners were honored at the Kentucky Commodity Conference on January 17, 2019.
Kentucky Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Nominees
Know a Kentucky farmer or forester who goes above and beyond in the care and management of natural resources? Nominate them for the 2019 Kentucky Leopold Conservation Award®.
Corn Growers Pleased by USDA Issuing Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard Labeling Rule
Key agricultural and farm groups today praised the USDA’s public release of the final rule implementing the National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard.
USDA to Gauge Financial Well-Being of Kentucky Farmers
Beginning in late December, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) will be gathering information about farm economics and production practices from farmers across Kentucky, as the agency conducts the third and final phase of the 2018 Agricultural Resource Management Survey (ARMS).
Kentucky Producer Earns Spot Among National Winners in Corn Yield Contest
Kentucky farmer Jason Greenwell of Waverly, earned third place in the Division A Non-Irrigated category with a yield of 319.6887 planting Channel brand 218-44VT2PRIB seed. This is the first time in several years a Kentucky producer has earned a top spot among the nation’s corn growers.
NCGA: Trade Aid Comes Up Short, Again
The National Corn Growers Association today expressed disappointment that corn farmers impacted by trade tariffs and ongoing trade uncertainty would receive virtually no relief through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Market Facilitation Program (MFP).
Farm Bill Passes and Heads to President’s Desk
The House passed the Farm Bill today by a vote of 369-47 after the Senate passed the legislation yesterday, 87-13. KyCorn is happy that the Farm Bill is moving forward and now awaits the President’s signature.
Corn Growers Statement on WOTUS Rule
Today, the EPA and Department of the Army proposed a clear, understandable, and implementable definition of “waters of the United States” that clarifies federal authority under the Clean Water Act.
Join Us for the 25th Annual Kentucky Commodity Conference
There is an amazing lineup of speakers and sessions planned for the 2019 Kentucky Commodity Conference, which marks the 25th year the Kentucky Corn Growers, Kentucky Small Grain Growers and Kentucky Soybean Associations have been collaborating to bring the latest marketing and production information to the commonwealth’s growers.
Dicamba Still Available for Use in Kentucky with Changes
Commissioner Ryan Quarles announced in an open letter that dicamba would still be available for growers with a new record-keeping system for dealers, fine structure for producers and without an application cut-off date in the 2019 season.
Kentucky Corn Growers Association: Fighting for You on Trade
KyCorn has been at the forefront of negotiations with the administration over how to mitigate the negative effects of these trade issues going forward. Though we face an uphill battle, we have managed to secure several market-driven policy changes on behalf of Kentucky’s corn farmers.
The Economic Value of Applying Broiler Litter in the Fall
Spring application of broiler litter is ideal for maximizing the economic value but faces challenges that include wet soil conditions, lack of time to spread litter near planting, and availability of litter in the spring.
Corn Growers Call for More Equitable Trade Relief
National Corn Growers Association President Lynn Chrisp today urged U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue to consider changes to the Market Facilitation Program (MFP) ahead of the second round of payments.
Kentucky Corn Yield May Set a Record
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) released the October Crop Production report today, showing a potential record yield forecasts for corn.
Mexican Buying Team Visits Kentucky White Corn Farms
White corn buyers from Mexico were in Kentucky last week to see U.S. grain production and infrastructure to better understand quality standards for U.S. white corn exports and make connections to facilitate future sales.
Crops Marketing and Management Newsletter
This month’s update includes the October crop production report, WASDE update, USDA Production Forecast, Storage Implications and Basis, Futures Trading Ranges to July 2019, Risk Management Opportunities for February Delivery, and more.
2018 Kentucky Corn Variety Trial Results Available
View the latest results from the Kentucky Corn Variety Testing trials.
UK Fragipan Research Team Solves Significant Yield-Reduction Issue
Several University of Kentucky soil scientists, an economist, a forage specialist, and other experts gathered in Princeton on October 3 to share findings from research that looked at getting rid of an issue for many western Kentucky farmers, the fragipan. This is research KyCorn has been supporting for many years.
Devine’s Corn Maze is Big Hit
To call Devine’s Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch a corn maze and pumpkin patch is an understatement. The wealth of farm activities available at the Devine farm in Mercer County exceeds its modest name. Voted the number five corn maze in the country by USA Today, Devin’s offers hours of outdoor fun during September and October. The season culminates with a haunted maze and a haunted barn on Halloween weekend.
USDA-NASS Updates Yield Forecast for Corn
Corn production in Kentucky< is forecast at 214 million bushels, up 1 percent from the August forecast but down 1 percent from the 2017 crop. Yield was estimated at 177 bushels per acre, up 2.0 bushels from last month and down 1.0 bushel from last year.
From Marketing to Meals
Low-income Scott Countians now have a more abundant supply of food thanks to the Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA), the Kentucky Corn Growers Association (KyCorn), and the Georgetown-Scott County Tourism Commission. The three organizations combined to donate more than 4,400 cans of non-perishable foods to the in Georgetown.
Olmsted Lock and Dam Renovations Improve Agriculture Transportation Infrastructure
After over 30 years of planning and construction, one of the most important segments of the U.S. inland waterway system—Olmsted Locks and Dam (L&D)—has been completed. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for this milestone on August 30, in Olmsted, IL.
Market Facilitation Program (MFP) Sign-up Begins Today
Beginning today (September 4th), Kentucky farmers can apply for the MFP at their local Farm Service Agency office. Crop farmers can apply after their 2018 harvest is 100 percent complete to determine 2018 production levels.
Farmers Thank Secretary Perdue for Biofuels Support; Ask for Continued Advocacy
This week, farmers and members of the renewable fuels industry came together at the Farm Progress Show in Boone, Iowa to welcome and thank Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue for his support of America’s farmers.
ARMS Data will Help Facilitate Farm Bill Discussions
NASS will soon start conducting the Agricultural Resource Management Survey (ARMS) Phase II for corn and soybeans. The surveys are similar to ones conducted last year for 2016 crops.
Navigating Trade Challenges Focus As Grains Council Meeting Kicks Off In Denver
Global trade is the most effective development tool we have,” Hills said. “It enlarges economic opportunities for poor countries. It is not just a humanitarian effort; it creates tomorrow’s trade partners. One might call it an act of enlightened self interest.”
Corn Growers Statement on USDA Trade Aid
The fine print will be important. We know the package won’t make farmers whole but look forward to working with USDA on the details and implementation of this plan.
KyCorn Presents Check for UK Grain and Forage Center of Excellence at Field Day
KyCorn farmer leaders presented the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment a check for $64,000 today to support the Grain and Forage Center for Excellence.
KyCorn Plans for Next Phase in Industry
Every few years, KyCorn leadership reevaluates its strategic plan, which helps guide programming and spending decisions. With high production, policy uncertainty, and an era of lower prices, KyCorn asked UK agricultural economist Steve Isaacs to facilitate the planning process during their July board meeting.
AMERICAN CHOPPER TV brings truth about Ethanol and Motorcycles
KyCorn’s investment into a partnership with Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) helped bring Paul Jr. Designs and AMERICAN CHOPPER back on the air after a six-year hiatus from reality TV.
Farmers Play Key Role in On-Farm Research Through KyCorn-UKAg Partnerships
Some of our most impactful field research over the years occurs when a farmer asks a question and we figure out how to conduct the trials,” said Dr. Chad Lee, Extension Professor and Director of the Grain and Forage Center of Excellence.
EPA Administrator Gets an Earful from Corn Farmers on Ethanol
Kansas corn and ethanol leaders told Administrator Scott Pruitt that his efforts to undermine the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) are helping Big Oil while hurting rural America. Administrator Pruitt toured the East Kansas Agri Energy LLC ethanol plant in Garnett, KS and sat down with a roomful of farmers and ethanol supporters Tuesday morning offering explanations and promises.
KyCorn, NCGA commend efforts to protect the RFS
On Tuesday of this week, the White House announced postponement of a compromise that had been considered which would have contained potentially damaging changes to the Renewable Fuel Standard.
U.S. Grains Industry Watches For Retaliation Following New Tariffs Implementation
As new tariffs on steel and aluminum imports go into effect for some of the United States’ closest allies, the U.S. grains industry is watching closely for retaliations that impact sales of U.S. corn, sorghum, barley and their related products, including ethanol and distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS).
Corn Seed Settlement Program
A Settlement has been reached with Syngenta over class action and individual lawsuits related to the sale and marketing of its Agrisure Viptera and Duracade corn seeds.
U.S. Ethanol Exports Continue Upward Streak
Seven months into the 2017/2018 marketing year, the United States has exported nearly one billion gallons of ethanol, up 15 percent year-over-year and an indication of ethanol exports’ support for U.S. grain demand.
Corn Growers Encourage Pollinator-Friendly Practices
With another growing season underway across corn country, the National Corn Growers Association encourages farmers to complete a mental check list and assess your farming operation and any potential impact for pollinators like honey bees.
KyCorn Announces 2018 Scholarship Recipients
The KyCorn Board of Directors is proud to announce their 2018 scholarship recipients. This is the seventh year KyCorn has provided scholarships for students in an agricultural field of study.
Promoting Ethanol in the Water and Beyond
This weekend, KyCorn is participating for a third year in the American Ethanol – Ethanol Fueled with Pride Crappie Masters Kentucky /Tennessee Tournament at Kentucky and Barkley Lakes. KyCorn co-sponsors the event with Commonwealth Agri-Energy to address ethanol use in marine engines with the fishing public.
As Challenges Roar, Market Development Ramps Up And Finds Success
As corn farmers in Kentucky and across the country head into the fields, many are facing the most uncertain market conditions of their lifetimes. Farm policy, ethanol policy, trade policy and more change on an hourly basis, and keeping up with the headlines alone has become a full-time experience.
Students Awarded Automotive Scholarships at OCTC
Wilbur Perez and Christopher Shadwick were awarded $500 scholarships from KyCorn through an endowment at Owensboro Community and Technical College.
Comer Provides Update and Perspective on 2018 Farm Bill
The House Agriculture Committee released House Bill 2, the Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018, on Thursday, April 12, and Congressman James Comer, who represents Kentucky’s 1st District, is happy with what he and his fellow committee members have put together for Kentucky’s and the nation’s farmers.
Kentucky Agronomists Attend Inaugural Corn Ideation Conference
We are very thankful for KyCorn’s sponsorship of two researchers to attend this workshop,” Lee said. “I was pleased to interact with so many researchers and scientists across the country involved in researching corn.
Statements On China Tariffs And Trade Retaliation
The Trump Administration’s announcement of $60 billion in new tariffs against Chinese imports into the United States has already prompted a response from China. It is considering placing import duties on US pork and ethanol, two significant corn markets.
Kentucky Cattlemen’s Beef Launched in Grocery Stores
Kentucky Cattlemen’s Ground Beef, is a collaborative project of the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association, Governor’s Office of Agriculture Policy, Kentucky Department of Agriculture, Kroger, and the Kentucky Corn Growers to put Kentucky-grown and fed beef into the hands of customers.
What’s the deal with RINs?!
Many farmers, when reading ag media over the past couple of weeks, have gotten acronym overload over a complicated but integral part of the Renewable Fuels Standard. The topic has been discussed on numerous occasions in the White House throughout the past few weeks.
Purdue University Analysis Confirms Potential Economic Fallout from Changes to RFS
Economists at Purdue University have analyzed the potential economic implications of a price cap on RINs in conjunction with an E15 RVP waiver. Their analysis finds that a price cap—even when paired with an RVP waiver–would prevent achievement of the objectives of the Renewable Fuel Standard, reduce overall biofuel blending, and halt investment in higher blend infrastructure.
NCGA Statement on White House RFS Meeting
For farmers, ethanol blending equals corn demand. Farmers care about RIN values, not because we want them to be high, but because we want the RIN market mechanism to work freely to incentivize blending.
10-Cent RIN Price Cap Would be ‘Catastrophic’ for Renewable Fuels
County Corn Production Estimates for 2017
USDA-NASS released county production estimates for corn in 2017. Christian County is the leading corn producing county in Kentucky for 2017, with production totaling 13,957,000 bushels, harvested from 73,100 acres. Wayne County took the top corn yield spot in 2017, producing 205 bushels per acre and the first time a county average corn yield has exceeded 200 bushels.
New DOE Study: Ethanol Among Best Options for Future Engine Efficiency Improvements and Emissions Reduction
The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) on February 15 hailed the release of two studies by the Department of Energy that find ethanol-based high octane fuels can deliver substantial fuel economy improvements and emissions reductions when paired with optimized internal combustion engines.
New Membership Program Grows Investment in UK Grain and Forage Center of Excellence
Members of the Kentucky Corn Growers Association last month developed a new membership program and ratified a member option that allows farmers to directly participate in the development of the UK Grain and Forage Center of Excellence. The new membership option was named the UKAg Benefactor Lifetime Membership.
Record Production, Blending, Exports ‘is the Definition of Ethanol Strong,’ RFA CEO Says
With record production, blending and exports for the U.S. ethanol industry last year, the outlook for the domestic ethanol industry isn’t just strong—it’s Ethanol Strong
Corn Growers Statement on President’s Proposed FY19 Budget
“Targeting the federal crop insurance program is extremely shortsighted. These cuts would reduce premium subsidies for policies with harvest price coverage by 15 percentage points. It also reduces premium subsidies for policies without harvest price coverage by 10 percentage points.