By Lori Potter, The Kearney Hub KEARNEY - Ronnie Green has a message for people who think the University of Nebraska-Lincoln joined the Big 10 mostly to give Husker football fans the hope of going to the Rose Bowl every year. "It's not just about football," said Green, vice chancellor of UNL's Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources. "It's an academic conference as well as an athletic conference. It's the only conference like that." That means the 12 universities can coordinate and leverage their high-quality academic programs, provide more student benefits and attract research grants that increasingly are awarded to projects involving multiple institutions, he told Nebraska Ag Classic participants Tuesday in Kearney. Green sees a great future for UNL as a top-tier leader in agriculture that now has opportunities to work with the Big 10's other land grant universities - Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan State, Ohio State, Penn State and Purdue - in ways still to be explored. This is the 150th anniversary year for land grant universities. Green said that in 1862, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Land Grant and Homestead Acts and legislation that created the intercontinental railroad and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. "We're kind of living in times when we have to pinch ourselves a little bit," Green told the ag producers in his audience. "...We're looking at the future through glasses, wondering if they're rosy or clear or what color they are." One thing is certain. As U.S. agriculture increases food production to meet demand by a world population projected to grow to 9 billion by 2050, research at land grant universities will be vital to discovering ways to produce crops and livestock more efficiently. "Guess who's in the driver's seat for those challenges. We are ... because we're sitting right on top of those challenges," Green said. Nebraska is one of the few states driven economically by agriculture. "So, if the University of Nebraska cannot be the very best at food, fuel, water and those types of areas, we've got something wrong," the vice-chancellor added. "... Those are our focus. Those are our priorities." PRSRT STD U.S. Postage Paid Permit #36 OMAHA, NE POSTAL CUSTOMER January 19, 2012 Issue 249-16-2 Livestock and Products, Weekly Average Year Ago 4 Wks Ago 1/6/12 Nebraska Slaughter Steer 35-65% Choice, Live Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$105.29 120.46 121.23 Nebraska Feeder Steers, Med. & Large Frame, 550-600# . . . . . . . . . . . .147.34 169.51 180.07 Med & Large Frame, 750-800 # . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .126.83 148.50 151.11 Choice Boxed Beef, 600-750# Carcass . . . . . . . . . .165.81 188.57 192.34 Western Corn Belt Base Hog Price . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70.45 82.68 82.29 Feeder Pigs, National Direct, 50#, FOB . . . . . . . . . . . .* * * Pork Carcass Cutout, 185#, 51-52% Lean . . . . . . . .78.35 89.48 84.77 Slaughter Lambs, Ch. & Pr.,Heavy, SD Dir . . . . . . . . .161.00 158.00 152.50 Nat. Carcass Lamb Cutout, FOB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .352.13 403.36 396.54 Crops, Daily Spot Prices Wheat, No. 1, H.W. Imperial, bu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.87 5.93 6.07 Corn, No. 2, Yellow, Omaha, bu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.68 5.99 * Soybeans, No. 1 Yellow Omaha, bu . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13.21 11.00 * Grain Sorg. No. 2 Yellow, Dorchester, cwt . . . . . . . . .9.46 10.04 10.88 Oats, No. 2, Heavy Minneapolis, MN, bu. . . . . . . . . . .3.89 3.24 3.10 Hay (per ton) Alfalfa, Lrg. Sq. Bales Good to Prem., NE Neb. . . . . .140.00 155.00 155.00 Alfalfa, Lrg. Rounds, Good, Platte Valley, . . . . . . . . .72.50 132.50 140.00 Grass Hay, Lrg. Rounds, Premium, Neb., . . . . . . . . . . .* 95.00 97.50 Dried Distillers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .186.00 216.00 214.50 Wet Distillers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65.00 70.00 73.50 * No market. MARKET GLANCE USDA to Measure the Economic Well- Being of American Farm & Ranches. 9 Al Dutcher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Grains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Livestock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Lee Pitts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Corn, Soybeans Continue to Dominate At Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Heartland Cattle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 House Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Recipes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-23 For daily agriculture news, updates and local happenings, visit the Heartland Express website at www.myfarmandranch.com Government Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Special Features Buffalo Bill Farm & Ranch Expo . . . . 7-9 KNEB Heart of the Valley Farm & Ranch Expo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Mid-America Alfalfa Expo . . . . . . . . 16-17 Weather Country Living The Lighter Side Markets Government Report Ag Management Livestock News Production News Schedule of Events Classifieds Continued on page 18 Continued on page 18 (LINCOLN)–Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) Director Greg Ibach is reminding all Nebraskans about the upcoming registration deadline for the 24th Annual Governor’s Ag Conference. The Conference, scheduled for February 15-16, will be held at the Holiday Inn and Convention Center in Kearney. Early registration for the conference ends February 1. “I encourage farmers, ranchers and agribusiness professionals to attend this informative event,” Ibach said. “It’s a great opportunity to get an outlook on the future of our industry.” Governor’s Ag Conference Big 10 Membership Creates Many Opportunities For the University of Nebraska, Especially in Ag Programs and Research
Transcript
By Lori Potter, The Kearney Hub
KEARNEY - Ronnie Green has amessage for people who think theUniversity of Nebraska-Lincolnjoined the Big 10 mostly to giveHusker football fans the hope ofgoing to the Rose Bowl every year.
"It's not just about football," saidGreen, vice chancellor of UNL'sInstitute of Agriculture andNatural Resources. "It's anacademic conference as well as anathletic conference. It's the onlyconference like that."
That means the 12 universitiescan coordinate and leverage theirhigh-quality academic programs,provide more student benefits andattract research grants thatincreasingly are awarded toprojects involving multipleinstitutions, he told Nebraska AgClassic participants Tuesday inKearney.
Green sees a great future forUNL as a top-tier leader inagriculture that now hasopportunities to work with the Big10's other land grant universities -Wisconsin, Illinois, MichiganState, Ohio State, Penn State andPurdue - in ways still to beexplored.
This is the 150th anniversaryyear for land grant universities.Green said that in 1862, PresidentAbraham Lincoln signed the LandGrant and Homestead Acts andlegislation that created theintercontinental railroad and theU.S. Department of Agriculture.
"We're kind of living in timeswhen we have to pinch ourselves alittle bit," Green told the agproducers in his audience."...We're looking at the futurethrough glasses, wondering ifthey're rosy or clear or what colorthey are."
One thing is certain. As U.S.agriculture increases foodproduction to meet demand by aworld population projected to growto 9 billion by 2050, research atland grant universities will bevital to discovering ways toproduce crops and livestock moreefficiently.
"Guess who's in the driver's seatfor those challenges. We are ...because we're sitting right on topof those challenges," Green said.
Nebraska is one of the few statesdriven economically byagriculture. "So, if the Universityof Nebraska cannot be the verybest at food, fuel, water and thosetypes of areas, we've got somethingwrong," the vice-chancellor added."... Those are our focus. Those areour priorities."
( L I N C O L N ) – N e b r a s k aDepartment of Agriculture (NDA)Director Greg Ibach is remindingall Nebraskans about theupcoming registration deadlinefor the 24th Annual Governor’sAg Conference.
The Conference, scheduled forFebruary 15-16, will be held atthe Holiday Inn and ConventionCenter in Kearney. Earlyregistration for the conferenceends February 1.
“I encourage farmers, ranchersand agribusiness professionals toattend this informative event,”Ibach said. “It’s a greatopportunity to get an outlook onthe future of our industry.”
Governor’s Ag Conference
Big 10 Membership Creates Many Opportunities For the University of Nebraska, Especially in Ag Programs and Research
Page 2 January 19, 2012Heartland Express - Weather
Al Dutcher ReportWeather Commentary Provided By Al Dutcher—UNL, State Climatologist
The first two-weekforecast of 2012indicated thepossibility of some ofthe coldest, if not thecoldest air of theseason would invadethe central Plains aftermid-month. Weactually got a taste ofcold temperatures, butthe bitter cold stayedjust to our north ashigh temperatureswere locked in thesingle digits to teensacross the Dakota’sduring the 1/16-1/20
time frame. Closer to home, the only significantmoisture event occurred during the overnighthours of 1/16. Most locations received a trace toan inch of snow, with 2-4 inches across extremesoutheast Nebraska. During the upcoming twoweek period, the weather models are becomingvery aggressive with precipitation and cold airacross the central Plains. If we are to believe themodels, February could come in like a roaring lionas a major winter storm is projected to impact thecentral and north central U.S. If this verifies, itcould result in the best moisture the state hasexperienced since early December. Time will tellwhether the models are indeed correct.
Week One Forecast, 1/21-1/27: The forecast forthis period could be summed up as the fightbetween air masses. Bitter cold to our north,warmth to our south, and Nebraska caught in themiddle. Fair weather is anticipated on 1/21 ashigh pressure slides to our east. A cold front isprojected to slip through the state on 1/22, withhigh temperatures likely to occur during the firsthalf of the day. Light snow is possible with thisfront, but accumulations should be in the trace toone inch range. If higher accumulations occur,they will likely be across the Panhandle due tocold air damming against the front range of theRockies (upslope flow). Dry conditions areprojected for 1/23, before another cold front slidesthrough the state on 1/24. This system isprojected to be slightly stronger than the 1/22event and light snow is possible statewide. Dryweather is projected for the 1/25-1/27 period, but astorm is currently projected to drop light tomoderate snow across the Dakota’s on 1/27. If itstrack is slightly south of current projections, thenorthern ½ of the state could experienceaccumulating snowfall. Projected HighTemperatures: 1/21-1/22 (upper 20's NE - mid 40'sW), 1/23 (low 30's NE - mid 40's W), 1/24 (low 30'sN - low 40's S), 1/25 (low 30's E - mid 40's W), 1/26(upper 20's NC - upper 40's W), 1/27 (mid 40's N -mid 50's S).
Week Two Forecast, 1/28 - 2/3: If the weathermodels are correct, this period will be stormy andcold, with the potential for a major winter storm
at the end of the forecast period. Another coldfront is projected to slide across the state on 1/28,with highs forecasted to occur during the firsthalf of the day. Moisture appears very limitedwith this system as it will be moving southwardout of Canada. Light snow is possible state wideon 1/28, with redevelopment on 1/29 as areinforcing piece of energy slides southeastwardout of Montana. Several inches of snow arepossible with this event and current model outputtargets west central and north central Nebraskawith the highest probability of receivingaccumulating snowfall. The cold air is projectedto spill southward into Texas on 1/30 and aid inthe development of a surface low on 1/31. This lowis projected to slowly lift toward the Great Lakesregion during the 2/1-2/3 time frame. Modelscurrently indicate the potential for widespread 4-8 inch totals across Nebraska during the 2/2-2/3period, with 12+ totals possible over the eastern ½of the state. Arctic air slides in behind the systemand high temperatures may not exceed 0 F, if themodels are correct on the evolution of thisprojected winter storm. High Temperatures: 1/28(mid 20's N - mid 30's S), 1/29 (mid 10's N - mid20's S), 1/30-1/31 (low 20's N - upper 20's S), 2/1(upper 10's NW - upper 20's SE), 2/2 (low 10's NW- mid 20's SE), 2/3 (-5 to single digits NW - low 10'sSE).
Allen Dutcher
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LINCOLN, Neb – Nebraska Corn stocks in allpositions on December 1, 2011 totaled 1.16billion bushels, down 3 percent from a yearearlier, according to USDA’s NationalAgricultural Statistics Service, Nebraska FieldOffice. Of the total stocks, 730 million bushelsare stored on farms, down 1 percent from 2010.Off-farm stocks, at 433 million bushels, aredown 5 percent from 2010 but still the thirdhighest on record.
Soybeans stored in all positions on December1, 2011 totaled 200 million bushels, up 18percent from last year. On-farm stocks at 63million bushels are up 17 percent from a yearearlier. Off-farm stocks at 137 million bushelsare up 19 percent from 2010 and the highest onrecord.
Wheat stored in all positions on December 1,2011 totaled 47.7 million bushels, down 37percent from a year ago. On-farm stocks, at 3.7million bushels, are down 46 percent from2010. Off-farm stocks, at 44.0 million bushels,are down 36 percent from a year earlier.
Sorghum stored in all positions on December1, 2011 totaled 8.3 million bushels, down 2percent from 2010 and the lowest since 1956.On-farm stocks, at 1.7 million bushels, areunchanged from a year earlier and equal to thelowest since 1952. Off-farm stocks, at 6.6million bushels, are down 3 percent from lastyear and the lowest since 1956.
Hay stocks on Nebraska farms totaled 4.3million tons on December 1, 2011, down 9percent from a year earlier.
Nebraska Grain & Hay Stocks
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January 19, 2012 Heartland Express - Country Living Page 3
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Susan Hansen, Extension Educator, Colfax County
Flu or food-borne illness? Both afflictionscan cause diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Jointand muscle aches may be an additionalsymptom with food-borne illness.
Dehydration is a danger with food-borneillnesses such as staph intoxication andsalmonellosis. Those at particular risk are theindividuals who are both vomiting and havediarrhea, the elderly, the very young and thosewith immune compromises. Extremedehydration may lead to death.
To avoid dehydration while ill from a food-borne illness, individuals must drink fluids,even though they might not stay down. Thefluids replace those that are lost and helpmove the microorganisms out of the body,toward a quicker recovery.
Food-borne illness usually occurs from foodthat has been left out at room temperature forlonger than two hours or is undercooked.Foods that must be thoroughly cooked arechicken, ground meat and eggs. However, beefsteaks and roasts can be safely eaten whencooked to medium rare.
Once microorganisms start to grow, theymultiply quickly. The number of cells doublesevery twenty minutes. They may not seem likemuch but use your math skills to see thatafter a few hours at room temperature, thereare a lot of microorganisms that can cause afood-borne illness.
A food-borne illness depends on the dose ofmicroorganisms consumed, but in typical food-borne illness outbreaks, about one-third of thepeople eating high numbers of these invisible,odorless cells will become ill. Healthy
individuals may have enough acid in theirdigestive systems or an immune system thatinhibits microbial action.
Food-borne illnesses develop at variousrates. For example, staph intoxicationtypically occurs 4 to 8 hours after eatingtainted food; salmonellosis occurs 30 to 48hours afterward; and symptoms of Hepatitis A(which occurs from improper hand washing)may take up to six weeks to develop.
Leftovers must be reheated to 165 degrees Fto destroy any microorganisms that may havecontaminated the food. However, reheatingcannot destroy extremely high numbers ofcells present in tainted food, resulting inillness.
Many cases of food-borne illness is causedfrom food eaten away from home. Thisincludes restaurants, catered events, pot luckdinners and picnics. For a restaurant to besuspected of food-borne illness, two or moreunrelated people eating the same food must beconfirmed by health officials.
Individuals who suspect a food-borne illnessshould contact either the restaurant wherethey ate or health officials. Callers are askedquestions to help pinpoint the cause. Callerssometimes are surprised to discover it was thefood in their own homes that made them sick,not food eaten away from home.
Even though food-borne illness can make anindividual extremely ill, it is best to contacteither the restaurant, doctor or healthdepartment while you are still sick. Thesooner the incident is reported, the easier it isto collect samples of either the suspected foodor from the individual, and determine thecause.
Avoid Dehydration From Food-Borne Illness
Noel Mues, Extension EducatorUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln ExtensionFurnas County
Fertilizer production costs have increasedsubstantially in recent years. When you look atthe numbers, remember that commodity pricesalso have increased significantly.
If you are a shrewd marketer, you have takenadvantage of crop pricing opportunities that willhelp offset the higher production costs. You maystill be able to find a few bargains for pre-paidfertilizer, however, most of the good deals aredifficult to find.
Following these tips can help you achieve aprofitable fertilizer program for 2012.
1. Follow a good soil testing program to knowmacro and micronutrient levels.
2. Use the most efficient methods to applyphosphorus (starter or strip-till application) andtiming options/methods/sources for nitrogen.
3. Take deep soil samples for residual nitrateto fine-tune N rates.
4. Set realistic yield goals. Expected yield is themajor factor in determining the nitrogen rate forcorn. Use a proven five-year average corn yieldplus 5% (to account for hybrid and managementimprovements).
5. Credit N from previous crop residue orlegume crops. Soil tests will not show legume orcrop residue credits as the residue or nodulesmust break down during the growing season.Credit N for corn after soybean, sugar beet,alfalfa, and dry beans.
6. Value and use manure sources properly.Manure is an excellent nutrient source fornitrogen, phosphorus, and micronutrients.
7. Not all fertilizer recommendations are thesame. UNL fertilizer recommendations mayseem conservative compared to some commerciallabs. UNL suggestions are based on research andon-farm verification. They are generally the mosteconomical rates, even for high yield situations.
8. Consider replicated strip trials to determinethe effect of lower or higher rates on yield. Fine-
tuning fertilizer use needs to be an on-goingprocess.
9. Comparison shop. Look at different productsand do your “fertilizer arithmetic” to compare theactual cost per pound of nutrients.
10. Work with a reputable dealer who canprovide quality product, price assurances, timelydelivery, and well-maintained equipment.Remember, service after the sale is alsoimportant.
Source: CropWatch – Gary Hergert, UNLExtension Soils Specialist
Dates and Locations for Private PesticideApplicator Certification:
Furnas CountyFeb. 8 • 1:00 p.m. • Beaver City • Community
Building Feb. 22 • 1:00 p.m. • Holbrook • Community
Building Feb. 22 • 6:00 p.m. • Holbrook • Community
10 Tips for Getting the Mostfrom Your Fertilizer Investment
Page 4 January 19, 2012Heartland Express - The Lighter Side
• I T ’ S T H E P I T T S b y L e e P i t t s •W h a t ’ l l Yo u H a v e ?
by Lee Pitts
Did you read where scientists have beensuccessful in implanting human genes intocows? This is no joke. It seems thatscientists wanted to make cow’s milk morelike human milk so that soccer moms willnever have to be inconvenienced to nursetheir young. Human genes havesubsequently been implanted into 300Holstein cows in China with the idea, I'msure, of exporting mother's milk back to theU.S. so that in the future American kidswill be weaned on Chinese milk.
Is there any part of our society that we'reunwilling to hand over to the Chinese?
I wonder, what other admirable traits dopeople possess that we'd like to see in cows?My first reaction is "NONE." Which doesn'tspeak too well for our human race. Isuppose we could implant the gene thatmakes everyone go to Starbucks everymorning which would result in cows thatwould gather themselves. Or we couldimplant the Oprah gene which would makefeedlot steers gain faster.
Considering the current human condition,I think a better question would be, "Whatcow traits can we implant in humans thatwould make us better people?"
I can think of several. To save time andworry over what to serve for dinner everynight we could implant the gene that makescows happy just to eat the same old thingday in and day out. And whenever I say
something embarrassing, which is prettymuch whenever I open my mouth, I'd surelike to have the trait that cows possess thatallows them not to put their foot in theirmouth. Or hoof, as the case may be.
Why limit all this genetic reengineeringjust to cows, after all, other animals haveadmirable qualities that humans could use.Who wouldn't want the work ethic of ants,the eternal optimism of pigs, the swimmingability of dolphins, or the ability to fly likean eagle? Just think, with flying-eaglegenes you’d never have to sit in the middleseat or be manhandled by airport securitypersonnel ever again.
Just imagine being able to jump 350times your body length like a flea(Olympics here I come), live nine more daysafter your head has been cut off like acockroach, taste your food with your feetlike the butterfly, fight like a bear, lick yourback when it itches like a cat, dig in thedirt with your nose like a Duroc, and matefifty times per day like some lions do. Didyou known that ants can lift 50 times andpull 30 times their body weight? And theyalways fall over on their right side whenthey’re drunk!
Who wouldn't want to have those genes?Animals rarely kill their own kind andwouldn't the world be a better place if weall had their peace gene?
Boy, this genetic engineering stuff sure isfun! I can foresee a day when parents willdesign their own kid before it’s conceived.They'll pick out the shape of its nose, thesize of its feet and the color of its hair froma catalog. Jennifer Anniston will have asecond career selling her genes to anyonewho wants a prettier baby. And when youcome from a long line of ugly people like Ido and are presented with the opportunityto genetically engineer that ugliness away,well, who wouldn't want to do that?
In the future we might order up a childlike we do a fast food hamburger: "Give mea kid with the eyes of an eagle, the mind ofa Border Collie and the body fat of a stalkof celery. And hold the mayo please." I'msure it would be expensive at first but justlike with computers and calculators, themore we all did it the cheaper it would be.
As with anything this complicated, Isuppose there could be occasional mistakes.You could end up with a human with all thecompassion of a grizzly bear, the udder of aHolstein, the gestation period of anelephant, the morals of a pig, the socialskills of a porcupine, the nose of a dillpickle and the brains of a sea snail.
On second thought, maybe this explainssome of the creatures stalking the halls ofCongress these days.
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January 19, 2012 Heartland Express Page 5
Baked SpicyFrench Fries
2 egg whites 2 large potatoes1/2 teaspoon chili powder 3/4 teaspoon ground cumin 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon table salt
Preheat oven to 425ºF. Spray a nonstick bakingsheet with nonstick cooking spray. In a largebowl, combine all ingredients; toss to coat.Transfer to the baking sheet. Bake until potatoesare barely tender, about 15 minutes. Increasethe oven temperature to broil; broil until crispy,about 10 minutes. Serve at once
Apple SpiceWaffles
1 egg white 1/4 cup cornmeal 1/3 cup water3/4 cup whole wheat flour 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon allspice, cloves, and nutmeg 1/2 cup nonfat plain yogurt 1 tablespoon brown sugar 2 tablespoons applesauce 3/4-1 cup finely diced apple , firm and tart
Whip the egg white until soft peaks form.Combine cornmeal, whole wheat flour, bakingpowder, baking soda, spices, and salt. In aseparate bowl, whisk together yogurt, brownsugar, water, and applesauce. Add to dryingredients, Stirring in the apples and whippedegg white. Bake in waffle iron.
Baked Cinnamon Donuts
2 cups flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 1/2 cups sugar2 teaspoons baking powder 2 teaspoons cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon mace 1 large egg , beaten 1 1/4 cups milk 2 tablespoons butter, melted 2 teaspoons vanilla TOPPING3/4 cup brown sugar 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon 1/4 cup butter, melted
Mix all 7 dry ingredients. In a smaller bowl,beat egg. Mix egg with milk and melted butter.Add vanilla. Stir milk mixture into dryingredients until just combined being carefulNOT to overmix. Pour into greased donut bakingtin, filling approximately 3/4 full. Mix cinnamoninto brown sugar and sprinkle over donuts.Drizzle or spoon melted butter over top of eachdonut. Bake in a 350ºF for 17 minutes.
Preheat oven to 400ºF. Wrap entire garlic bulbtightly in foil; place garlic and potatoes in oven.Bake garlic until soft when squeezed, about 45minutes; remove from oven and let cool.Continue baking potatoes until tender whenpierced, about 15 minutes more; let potatoesstand until cool enough to handle. Meanwhile,cook bacon in a large nonstick skillet overmedium-high heat until browned, about 6minutes. Place bacon on paper towels to drain offany fat; chop bacon. Unwrap garlic and squeezepulp from bulb with hands into a large saucepan.Peel potatoes and add to saucepan; mash with apotato masher until smooth. Gradually stir inbroth, thyme, salt and pepper until blended; cookover medium heat until hot, stirringoccasionally, about 5 to 10 minutes. To serve, topeach with 1 tablespoon of sour cream, 1tablespoon of cheese, 1 rounded tablespoon ofbacon and 1 tablespoon of scallions.
Baked BeefBurritos
1 lb lean ground beef 1/4 cup taco seasoning 1 cup water 1 cup fat free sour cream 1/2 cup salsa 1 cup tomato, cut into small cubes 8 whole wheat soft tortillas, 12 inch 1 cup low-fat cheddar cheese, grated 1 small head lettuce, cut into thin ribbons 2 cups tomatoes, cut into small cubes
Brown ground beef, add taco seasoning andwater, simmer for 20 minutes. Add sour cream,salsa and tomatoes and stir until heatedthrough. Divide mixture between 8 soft tortillas.Spray casserole dish with nonstick spray. Foldthe sides of tortillas in first until almosttouching. Then roll the tortilla and place seamside down. Sprinkle evenly with cheese. Coverpan with foil and bake at 350ºF forapproximately 25 minutes, until cheese hasmelted and burritos are heated through. Placelettuce and on each plate and top with tomatoes.Place burritos on top.
Turkey Meatloaf1 lb ground turkey breast 1/3 cup quick-cooking oats 1/4 cup nonfat milk 1 egg , beaten 1/3 cup chili sauce 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small red pepper, finely chopped 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce salt and pepper ketchup
Combine oats and milk--let absorb about 10minutes. Combine oats and all ingredients--except for ketchup. Spray a 9x13 baking panwith cooking spray. Shape meat mixture intoloaf. Brush with ketchup. Bake at 350ºF for 50minutes.
Oven BakedOnion Rings
1/4 cup breadcrumbs 1/2 teaspoon driedoregano 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 2 medium onions, cut into 3/16-inch rings 2 tablespoons 1% low-fat milk 1/2 teaspoon salt pepper
Preheat oven to 350ºF. Spray a cookie sheetwith lite olive oil or other veggie oil. Mix breadcrumbs, oregano & cayenne. Dip onion rings intothe milk and allow the excess to drip back intothe bowl. Dip into the crumb mixture. Theywon't be fully coated. Place onion rings in asingle layer on the cookie sheet. Bake onionrings until the crumbs are golden and the onionsare soft (approx 30 minutes). Sprinkle with salt& pepper and then serve.
Blueberry Brownies1 cup applesauce 1/2 cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 cup whole wheat flour1/3 cup cocoa powder 1/4 cup unbleached white flour 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/3 cup chopped walnuts 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
Preheat oven to 350ºF and spray an 8 inchsquare baking pan. Combine applesauce, sugar,and vanilla. In a another bowl, whisk togetherflours, cocoa, baking powder and soda. Make awell in the center and add wet ingredients; mixuntil just combined. Gently fold in walnuts andblueberries. Spread mixture into prepared panand bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until center isfirm and not sticky. Let cool completely beforeslicing. Makes 16 brownies.
Tortellini TomatoSpinach Soup
1 tablespoon olive oil 1/2 cup minced onion 1 garlic clove, minced 4 -6 cups chicken broth1 (14 ounce) can whole tomatoes , chopped 1 (9 ounce) package fresh or dried tortellinikosher salt cracked black pepper 10 ounces fresh or frozen spinach, chopped 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
In a soup pot, heat olive oil over medium highheat. Saute the onion and garlic, stirring oftenuntil onions are translucent, about 5 to 7minutes. Add broth and tomatoes, turn heat upto high, and bring to a boil. Add the tortellini andcook according to package instructions. Whentortellini is almost done, add spinach and taste,adjusting seasonings with salt and pepper. Serveimmediately. Garnish each serving with asprinkling of Parmesan.
Healthly Recipes
Page 6 January 19, 2012Heartland Express - Government
Our military is the finest fighting force forfreedom and security the world has ever knownand every last one of them is a volunteer. Whenthe call to arms was sounded, it was they whostepped forward and said, “Send me.” Nebraskais home to more than 150,000 veterans. Theseheroes have put everything at risk to defend ourfreedoms. Our troops risk life and limb andspend great lengths of time away from theirfamilies so the rest of us do not have to. Inreturn for their service and sacrifice, we made apromise to take care of them and their familieswhen they come home. Ensuring our veteranshave access to the health care they need is oneof our nation’s most solemn obligations.
My grandfather’s military service in theSouth Pacific during World War II has instilledin me a tremendous amount of respect for ourtroops. My admiration for them only has grownsince serving in Congress, which is why Ifounded and still co-chair the bipartisanCongressional Rural Veterans Caucus.
Needless to say, I am concerned about a recentproposal to reduce services at the VA medicalfacility in Hot Springs, South Dakota, which
provides essential medical care to literallythousands of Nebraska veterans. Health careaccess in general is an important issue in ruralareas like Nebraska, let alone for our state’sveterans. Moreover, additional servicereductions would force veterans in ruralNebraska to drive unreasonably long distancesto receive care. Increasing the distancesveterans are forced to travel causes many tosimply choose to delay or even go without thecare they require.
In response, I wrote a letter to VeteransAffairs Secretary Eric Shinseki and anotherletter to Stephen DiStasio, the new Director ofthe VA Black Hills Health Care System. In both,I expressed my concerns with the VA’s proposaland specifically requested to Director DiStasioan additional community meeting in the ThirdDistrict. I am pleased to say there have beenadditional public meetings in Alliance andChadron as a result, and I urge the VA tocarefully consider the public input from theseforums.
Rest assured I stand ready to assist anyveteran in the Third District who is having
issues with the VA or any other federal agency.Recently, I had the pleasure of helping aNebraska veteran who had been denied thereinstatement of his VA health care contractfollowing a hospital stay. By working with theDepartment of Veterans Affairs, I was able tohave the decision revisited and ultimatelyreversed. It is my goal to ensure rural veteransin the Third District and across the countrymaintain their access to the health care theywere promised by serving this country.
With a new generation of American heroesreturning home after a decade of war andmembers of the Greatest Generation in need ofsome of the most acute care, now is not the timeto reduce access for our veterans. Caring for ournation’s sick and disabled veterans and theirfamilies is a sacred obligation – one promised tothem when they volunteered their service. Ifyou are a veteran living in the Third Districtand have questions, feel free to contact any ofmy offices or connect with me at my website:http://adriansmith.house.gov.
Keeping Our Promise To Nebraska’s Veteransby Congressman Adrian Smith
Scottsbluff Office416 Valley View Drive, Suite 600
Scottsbluff, NE 69361Phone: (308) 633-6333
Fax: (308) 633-6335
Grand Island Office1811 West Second Street, Suite 105
Grand Island, NE68803Phone: (308) 384-3900
Fax: (308) 384-3902
Washington Office503 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515Phone: (202) 225-6435
Fax: (202) 225-0207
Preparing for the High Court’s Reviewby Senator Mike Johanns
The new year brings with it a re-energizedchallenge to the health care law, a law which hasbeen unpopular since its enactment in March2010. Once billed as a law to reduce health carepremiums for American families, theunfortunate truth is that health care costs haveactually increased over the past two years, andare projected to continue rising. Later this yearthe Supreme Court will devote a uniquelylengthy amount of time deliberating theconstitutionality of the law. In my view, theentire law should be overturned, and I recentlysigned a brief to the Supreme Court stating asmuch.
One question the Court will consider iswhether the entire law can be preserved if aportion of it is found to be unconstitutional. Theprovision under scrutiny is the individualmandate, which requires every American topurchase government-approved health insurance
or else pay a fine. Such a mandate forcing everyAmerican into a specific market is anunprecedented use of federal power, and shouldbe struck down. If it is, the question the Courtmust also determine is whether the entire lawmust then necessarily be nullified.
On this issue – known as severability – thecourt should find that the individual mandatecannot be separated from the rest of the law. Themandate was touted by the bill's supporters asthe cornerstone of the bill's viability because itwould purportedly hold down costs and widenhealth insurance coverage. Although the law hasaccomplished neither of these goals, the fact thatthe law's supporters made these argumentsshows us the mandate is central to how the lawwas supposed to work, and that the law's authorsintended the mandate to work together with thelaw’s other provisions.
The structure of the Constitution establishesthat Congress writes law, the Courts uphold thelaw, and the executive branch implements thelaw. If the Court now strikes down the individualmandate but upholds the rest of the law, wewould have an entirely new law, and theSupreme Court would have turned itself intopart of the legislative branch, a violation ofconstitutional provisions we know as separationof powers and checks and balances.
Along with 35 of my Senate colleagues, I signedan amicus brief to the Supreme Court advocatingthis position. I plan to continue my co-sponsorship of bills to repeal the law and willcontinue to do everything I can to get this law offthe books so it does a minimal amount ofdamage. I believe changes are needed to improveour health care system, but the health care lawdid more harm than good. We must repeal it sowe can focus on truly improving health care
Kearney Office:4111 Fourth Avenue, Suite 26
Kearney, NE 68845Tel: (308) 236-7602 Fax: (308) 236-7473
Lincoln Office:294 Federal Building 100 Centennial
Mall NorthLincoln, NE 68508
Tel: (402) 476-1400 Fax: (402) 476-0605
Scottsbluff Office:115 Railway Street, Suite C102
Scottsbluff, NE 69361Tel: (308) 632-6032Fax: (308) 632-6295
Omaha Office:9900 Nicholas St., Suite 325
Omaha, NE 68114Tel: (402) 758-8981Fax: (402) 758-9165
Washington, D.C. Office404 Russell Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
Education is a key priority in our state andeducating our sons and daughters is aninvestment that will pay dividends forindividuals, families and communitiesthroughout our state. Education success andeconomic success are directly linked. InNebraska, we are committed to creating higherpaying jobs and developing a highly educatedworkforce so that our graduates and youngprofessionals are prepared for high-quality,high-skill jobs with Nebraska companies.Fulfilling this vision requires a focused efforton student and school achievement.
I would like to share with you Nebraska highschool academic results in several areas. Thisinformation includes high school graduationrates, the statewide reading assessmentresults, the statewide math assessment results,the latest ACT average scores and the collegegoing rate. As you review the information, it isimportant to note the individual high schoolresults and to recognize student and schoolgrowth and improvement over time.
Nebraska schools build on a tradition ofexcellence. Sharing this information is meant to
prompt discussion between educators, parents,and communities about how we continue toimprove our schools. Since Nebraska schoolsbegan to administer statewide reading andmath assessment tests, Nebraskans are nowable to compare their school district with otherdistricts in the state.
This past year Nebraska transitioned to theFour Year Adjusted Cohort Graduation Rate tocalculate high school graduation rates. Agraduation rate of 90% for every high school isour goal. Over time, these results will beinformative and useful in identifying schoolswith consistently high academic achievementand sharing their success stories with allschools. We should also be able to identify theschools with the best growth and improvementplans and share their progress with all schools.It’s about individual school achievement andschool growth. Both are important.
A few weeks ago, I visited a Norris high schooland middle school academic achievement peprally. They celebrated one of the highestaggregate performance levels in the state on theassessment tests and recognized 50 students
who achieved a perfect score on the statewidereading or math assessment. At Norris,academic achievement is encouraged andexpected. They are doing a great job and I amproud of the emphasis they put on education.
While poverty and diversity are challenges forour schools, we are determined to strengthenNebraska’s education system by eliminatingacademic achievement gaps. The bestopportunity to reduce poverty and to provideevery young person hope is with a qualityeducation. We have good schools in our state,but as good as they are we need to do evenbetter in the future.
If you would like to know your high school’sscores and rankings go to our website atwww.governor.nebraska.gov and click on the“column” icon.
To make it easier for Nebraskans to analyzeand understand the results, they are reportedby their sports classification (Class A, B, C-1, C-2 and smaller schools). For privacy concerns,federal law does not allow education data to bereported publicly if a high school graduationclass has 10 or less students.
Education ResultsBy Governor Dave Heineman
Lincoln Office/State CapitolP.O. Box 94848
Lincoln, NE 68509-4848Phone: 402-471-2244
Fax: 402-471-6031
Western Office4500 Avenue I • P.O. Box 1500
Scottsbluff, NE 69363-1500Phone: 308-632-1370
Fax: 308-632-1313
January 19, 2012 Heartland Express - Buffalo Bill Farm & Ranch Expo Page 7
February 1-2, 2012 Wednesday 9 am - 6 pm CST
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LINCOLN - The Nebraska Grain SorghumProducers Association (NeGSPA) and GrainSorghum Board announce their annualSorghum Cropping Profitability Seminars to beheld at two locations February 1-2, 2012.Registration begins each day at 8:30 AM andwill be held the following dates and locations:Wednesday, February 1 at the FairgroundsExhibition Building, 56885 PWF Road,Fairbury, and Thursday, February 2 at theCommunity Center in Red Cloud, Nebraska.
The Sorghum Profitability Seminars,sponsored in part by the Sorghum Checkoff andthe University of Nebraska CooperativeExtension Service, focus on new ideas andupdates on production and managementinformation to make sorghum production moreprofitable. The program is designed to provide
farmers information they can applyimmediately to their operations and gives thema chance to offer input on the sorghum check-off.
This year’s topics include Current Markets,Defining Risk, Recognizing Opportunities byAgWest Commodities; Managing Sorghum forSuccess by Dr. Kraig Roozeboom, Kansas StateUniversity; Nutrient Management by Dr. DaveMengel, Kansas State University and RandyPryor, UNL Extension Educator; Focus onPheasants by T.J. Walker, Nebraska Game &Parks Commission; Sorghum Checkoff-Renewed Optimism, Bill Greving, USCP BoardMember, Prairie View, KS; Marketing SorghumBeyond the Border by Kevin Roepke, U.S.Grains Council; Protecting Nebraska’sAgriculture by Duane “Dewey” Lienemann,
UNL Cooperative Extension; and WeatherOutlook-Will LaNina Bring Dry Conditions byAl Dutcher, UNL State Climatologist.
The noon meal will feature a sorghum soupand sandwich lunch. Vendors will haveexhibits to showcase new products,production/management information, and newtechnology.
Registration at the door is $5.00, however,members of the Grain Sorghum ProducersAssociation will be admitted free.
Producers wanting more information areencouraged to contact their local CooperativeExtension Education Coordinator or theNebraska Grain Sorghum Board/NeGSPA officeat 402/471-4276 or email:[email protected].
Sorghum Seminars Planned
January 19, 2012 Heartland Express - Buffalo Bill Farm & Ranch Expo Page 9
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Lincoln, NE – The U.S. Department ofAgriculture’s National Agricultural StatisticsService (NASS) will spend the next severalmonths contacting farmers and ranchersacross the nation to conduct the AgriculturalResource Management Survey (ARMS). Theresults of this survey will serve as a baselinefor numerous federal policies and programsthat affect U.S. farms and ranches and theirfamilies.
"ARMS is our primary tool for gauging thefinancial condition and production practiceson American farms and ranches," said DeanGroskurth, director of the NASS NebraskaField Office. "By participating in this survey,Nebraska farmers and ranchers directlyimpact the decisions that affect them, theirfamilies and their operations."
NASS conducts ARMS jointly with USDA’sEconomic Research Service. In an effort toobtain the most accurate data, the federalagencies will reach out to nearly 35,000producers nationwide, including 1,780 inNebraska, between January and mid-April.The survey asks the producers to provide dataon their operating expenditures, productioncosts and household characteristics.
"Decision makers from all facets of U.S.agriculture will use the collective information
from ARMS to answer questions and makeimportant decisions concerning the economicviability of American agriculture, the ruraleconomy and other emerging issues,"explained Groskurth "That’s why it isimperative for all farmers and rancherscontacted by NASS to provide responses andhelp shape the future of U.S. agriculture."
As with all NASS surveys, informationprovided by respondents is confidential by law.NASS safeguards the confidentiality of allresponses, ensuring no individual respondentor operation can be identified.
The economic data gathered in ARMS will bepublished in the annual Farm ProductionExpenditures report on August 2, 2012. AllNASS reports are available online atwww.nass.usda.gov.
NASS provides accurate, timely, useful andobjective statistics in service to U.S.agriculture. The agency invites you to expressyour thoughts and provide occasional feedbackon our products and services by joining a datauser community. To join, sign in athttp://usda.mannlib.cornell.edu/subscriptionsand look for "NASS Data User Community."
USDA to Measure theEconomic Well-Being ofAmerican Farm and Ranches
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and Chief Analyst/Advisor David M. Fiala’s company,
FuturesOne, is a full servicerisk management and futuresbrokerage firm. A primaryfocus of FuturesOne is toprovide useful agricultural
marketing advice via daily, weekly, andmonthly analysis of the domestic and globalmarkets. FuturesOne designs and servicesindividualized risk management solutionsand will also actively manage pricingdecisions for ag producers. FuturesOne alsoprovides advice and management services forspeculative accounts. David and his staff atFuturesOne draw on decades of marketing,brokerage, farming and ranching experience
to provide customers and readers qualitydomestic and global market analysis, newsand advice. FuturesOne has Nebraska officeslocated in Lincoln, Columbus andCallaway—Des Moines and at the ChicagoBoard of Trade. You may contact David viaemail at fiala@ futuresone.com, by phone at1-800-488-5121 or check FuturesOne out onthe web at www.futuresone.com. Everyoneshould always understand the risk of lossand margin needed when trading futures orfutures options.
The information contained herein isgathered from sources we believe to bereliable but cannot be guaranteed. Opinionsexpressed are subject to change withoutnotice. There is significant risk in tradingfutures.
Mar. 12 Dec. 12Support: 548 522Resistance 682 601
Corn trade has continued to drift lower this week fol-lowing the negative USDA numbers last Thursday. Cornis posting a 6 cent loss on the March contract throughThursday, and 2012 crop corn also saw pressure sliding 7cents. Pressure has come from residual fund selling asthe long position built up pre-report continues to be whit-tled down. South American weather has also been lessthreatening, although many private analysts continue toreduce crop estimates due to poor pollination. The reportlast week failed to confirm trade expectations of areduced US corn crop, which has fueled liquidation.However, overall stock numbers are still historicallytight, and there is little room for breaks to increasedemand. New crop prices should be supported by an acrebattle coming forward especially if South America fails toproduce. The sustained run of historically high prices hasfound additional production, so good 2012 productioncould weigh significantly on 2013 prices over the mediumterm. Feed usage coming forward will also need to bewatched as worldwide herd sizes are expected to be sup-port by improving demand for meat, especially in Asia.Export inspections on the week were 30.05 millionbushels, vs. 32 million expected, but this still representsa solid pace. New export sales are delayed until Fridaybecause of Monday’s holiday, but the USDA has con-firmed a 120,000 metric ton sale to Egypt. South Koreahas also continued to aggressively buy feed grains.Chinese domestic corn prices remain stable and US cornimports at a better price for the moment. Basis hasfirmed in post-report trade across the corn belt as theearly January grain has moved in, and the break has dis-couraged selling. Ethanol production is expected to showa slower pace again this week when the numbers arereleased on Thursday, with burdensome winter invento-ries still in place. Hedgers call with questions.
Chicago K City MinneapolisSupport: 552 616 778Resistance 669 727 833
The wheat trade has seen pressure early in theweek as pressure spilled over from the corn pit, andthe lack of a fresh story helped fuel further selling.The weekly net changes on the March contracts are10 lower in Chicago, 17 lower in KC and unchangedin Minneapolis. The Chicago/KC spread narrowedthis week as some spread trade is unwound. Chicagowheat and corn have resumed trading near paritywhich should support wheat feeding coming forward.A large short remains in place in the wheat market,and a return to short covering could give the marketthe opportunity to sell some rallies coming forward.The higher planted acres reported last week in theUSDA data will be watched closely as adverseweather conditions in the South Plains could spurabandonment later on. Middle Eastern countriescontinue to actively buy wheat with Black Sea origindominating for the moment. However, Russian grainprices have continued to firm as easily exportablegrain supplies are exhausted, which has US wheatpriced competitively coming forward. Wheat exportinspections were 13.5 million bushels which wasbelow the 16 million expected. Southern Hemispherewheat harvest is mostly wrapped up at this point,with a higher proportion than usual as feed gradewheat. Japan is actively seeking milling wheat as wemove through the winter. The US HRW belt has notfaced significant winter kill issues as of yet with thewarm winter. Eastern Europe caught some snow tohelp support the crop, but the Ukraine is still antic-ipating significant winter kill losses. Hedgers callwith questions.
Mar. Mar. Meal Mar. OilSupport: 1119 289 4883Resistance 1246 327 5307
March 2012 Soybeans (CBOT) - Daily Chart
Soybean trade has rebounded this week, trading25 cents higher on the March contract, with newcrop futures 16 higher. Both contracts are trading ashade below nearby resistance points on the movingaverages, if the trade can develop further followthrough this week, the charts could turn back mild-ly positive. Meal is $11 higher on the week and beanoil is up 11 points. Outside markets have been sup-portive this week, as improving data out of Chinahas spurred buying in the commodities that Chinaimports significant quantities of. South Americanweather is showing a better moisture pattern, butcoverage is imperfect with private analysts stillreducing the expected crop size. A return to a wetterpattern would likely pressure the market going intoFebruary. NOPA soybean crush came in at 145 mil-lion bushels, 5 million more than expected. Soyoilstocks were slightly bigger than expected at 1.93 bil-lion lbs, vs. 191 billion expected. Soymeal exportswere 607,000 metric tons, which was slightly biggerthan last December’s exports. Crush yield remainedlower, which could spur further USDA adjustmentsto crush down the road. Chinese crush margins havealso improved recently, and should support furtherimports coming forward. South American basis hasbegun to firm as old crop stocks are depleted aheadof harvest. This may give the US an additional win-dow to grab some export business. Weekly exportinspections were better than expected with 40 mil-lion bushels shipped vs. 28 million expected. Newexport sales are delayed until Friday, but there arereports of fresh export interest surfacing. Basis hasfirmed substantially in post report trade as well.Hedgers call with questions.
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January 19, 2012 Heartland Express Page 11
48160
Cal
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• (8
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By Robert Pore, The Grand Island Independent
Corn and soybeans continue to dominateNebraska's agricultural landscape, pushingaside other traditional small grain crops, suchas wheat and sorghum.
The USDA's National Agricultural StatisticsService, Nebraska Field Office reported thatcorn for grain production in Nebraska, based onyear-end surveys, is estimated at 1.54 billionbushels, up 5 percent from 2010 and the secondlargest production of record.
The report said the yield averaged 160bushels per acre, 6 bushels below last year, dueto weather problems during the planting andgrowing season. Farmers harvested 9.6 millionacres of corn for grain, up 8 percent from 2010and the largest since 1933.
According to the report, soybean productionfor 2011 totaled 258 million bushels, down 3percent from 2010, but still the third largest ofrecord. Yield, at 53.5 bushels per acre, is up 1bushel from a year earlier and second highestof record. Area for harvest, at 4.83 millionacres, is down 5 percent from 2010.
The USDA reported that last year producersplanted 19.281 million acres to principal cropsin Nebraska and harvested 18.923 millionacres. On those harvested acres, corn andsoybeans represented 14.43 million acres or 76percent of all principal crop land planted inNebraska.
In contrast, other crops, such as sorghum,hay and winter wheat, have seen their plantedacres diminished to record lows.
For example, the USDA reported thatsorghum for grain production in 2011 isestimated at 6.6 million bushels, down 3percent from 2010. Yield, at 94 bushels peracre, is up 4 bushels from a year earlier. Areaharvested for grain is 70,000 acres, down 5,000acres from a year ago and the lowest sorghumfor grain acreage since 1937.
Hay production, according to the USDA,totaled 5.62 million tons in 2011, down 11percent from a year earlier. Area harvested is
2.48 million acres, down 8 percent from 2010.The average yield, at 2.27 tons per acre, isdown .09 ton per acre from 2010. Alfalfaproduction is down 13 percent from a yearearlier and all other hay production is down 9percent.
And that trend is continuing in the 2012 cropyear, as, on Thursday, the USDA reported thatNebraska's winter wheat seedings for the 2012crop are expected to total 1.4 million acres.Seedings are down 8 percent, or 120,000 acres,from last year and the smallest winter wheatplanted acreage since records began in 1909.
The USDA reported that the state's winterwheat crop is doing well as topsoil moisturesupplies were mostly adequate in westerncounties as the planting period began. As ofJan. 1, the report said, winter wheat cropconditions rated 74 percent good and excellent,compared to 42 percent good and excellent ayear ago.
High prices for corn and soybeans arepropelling the increase in planting acres. That,in turn, is pushing up land prices, according tothe Farmers National Co., which reports thatfarmland prices reached a two-year high.
"What surprises us is the rate of increaseover the last 12 months," said Lee Vermeer,vice president of real estate operations atFarmers National Co. "Values are up 20 to 25percent, compared to rises of 5 to 10 percent in2010. We are looking for 2012 to be anotherprofitable year for those selling land."
Farmers National Co. has seen record auctionactivity during the last six months as moreproperties are being sold at auction tomaximize profits. Tight supply of quality landhas also prompted buyers to look at lessproductive land that can be upgraded,according to Vermeer.
He said strong grain prices are boostingprofits for farmers, prompting them to pursueland in order to expand operations. In addition,cash rents in top production areas haveincreased 25 to 40 percent during 2011.
"Farmers make up 75 percent of the buyers inthe market, despite continued strong interestfrom investors," said Vermeer. "Land continuesto be a tangible investment that has performedwell, thus the demand."
He said the upcoming year looks positive."However, poor performance in the
commodity market over the next year couldbring downward pressure on land values," hesaid. "Good weather worldwide could result in acrop surplus, dropping prices. In addition,inflation would boost interest rates, negativelyaffecting land values."
The USDA also reported Thursday thatNebraska corn stocks in all positions on Dec. 1,2011, totaled 1.16 billion bushels, down 3percent from a year earlier. Of the total stocks,730 million bushels are stored on farms, down1 percent from 2010. Off-farm stocks, at 433million bushels, are down 5 percent from 2010but still the third highest on record.
Soybeans stored in all positions on Dec. 1,2011, totaled 200 million bushels, up 18 percentfrom the previous year. On-farm stocks at 63million bushels were up 17 percent from a yearearlier. Off-farm stocks at 137 million bushelswere up 19 percent from 2010 and the higheston record.
Wheat stored in all positions on Dec. 1, 2011,totaled 47.7 million bushels, down 37 percentfrom a year ago. On-farm stocks, at 3.7 millionbushels, were down 46 percent from 2010. Off-farm stocks, at 44 million bushels, were down36 percent from a year earlier.
Sorghum stored in all positions on Dec. 1,2011, totaled 8.3 million bushels, down 2percent from 2010 and the lowest since 1956.On-farm stocks, at 1.7 million bushels, wereunchanged from a year earlier and equal to thelowest since 1952. Off-farm stocks, at 6.6million bushels, were down 3 percent from theprevious year and the lowest since 1956.
Hay stocks on Nebraska farms totaled 4.3million tons on Dec. 1, 2011, down 9 percentfrom a year earlier.
Corn, Soybeans Continue to Dominate Ag Landscape
Page 12 January 19, 2012Heartland Express - KNEB Heart of the Valley Farm & Ranch Expo
48955
27th AnnualKNEB Heart of the Valley
Farm & Ranch Expo
February 3rd and 4th, 2012at the Event Center—Fairgrounds
Mitchell, NE
Friday, February 3rd9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday, February 4th9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Wide Variety of Exhibitors
Register to win a Big Screen TV & Traeger Grill!
Check our website for more informationwww.kneb.com
Tune to 960 AM, 94.1 FM, FM 94-1For Booth Information Call (308) 632-7121
Farmers & RanchersFree Pancakes &Sausage Friday,
February 3rd7:00 - 9:00Courtesy of:
KNEB, Panhandle Co-op,Farm Credit Servicesof America, and 21st
Century WaterTechnologies, 21stCentury Equipment
Ugly Boot ContestSponsored by Brown’s Shoe Fit
Bring in your ugly boots by 2 p.m. Friday.
1st Place: $200 Gift Card2nd Place: $100 Gift Card3rd Place: $50 Gift Card
Health ScreeningFree Blood Pressure Check
and Pulse checkGet your Tetanus ($55),
Flu ($30) and Pneumonia ($70)shots. Friday 9-6; Saturday 9-2.
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As the world populationcontinues to grow; safe andwholesome food productionremains a top priority. It isessential that livestock producersmake themselves familiar with theperceptions and perspectives ofanimal welfare in relation toconsumers, retailers, and advocacygroups. Four educational programsfor livestock producers will be heldacross Nebraska to address theseissues. In addition, theseeducational programs will provideinformation on the most currentindustry issues.
Dates and locations for theeducational programs are asfollows:
February 6, 2012: West PointFebruary 7, 2012: LincolnFebruary 8, 2012: KearneyFebruary 9, 2012: Gering
The educational programs aredesigned to give livestockproducers the knowledge needed tocontinue to do what they do best—feed the world.
Registration begins at 9:30 amand the program runs from 10 a.m.until 5 p.m. Early bird registration(before February 1, 2012) is $50per person and $25 for each personfrom the same operation;registration at the door is $60 per
person, and $30 for each additionalperson from the same operation.Price includes meal, break, andproceedings. These educationalprograms are being sponsored byUniversity of Nebraska– LincolnExtension.
Speakers include:
Dr. Candace CroneyPurdue University
Dr. Dan Thompson and Dr. Glynn TonsorKansas State University
Mr. Jim RobbLivestock Marketing Information Center
For more information contact oneof the following UNL ExtensionEducators, or visit their countywebsite for the program brochure:
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By Lori Potter, The Kearney Hub
ALMA - Owners of agricultural land withinthe Lower Republican Natural ResourcesDistrict who don't plan to irrigate in 2012 haveuntil March 1 to complete the process requiredto avoid paying a $10-per-irrigated-acreoccupation tax.
Questions from the public about the issuewere answered at Thursday's LRNRD boardmeeting in Alma.
Assistant Manager Bryan Lubeck said formsmust be completed at an NRD field office. Thefield offices are in the U.S. Department ofAgriculture's Natural Resources ConservationService offices in Furnas, Harlan, Franklin,Webster and Nuckolls counties.
Landowners must provide maps that identifythe acres involved. "We are putting on the formthat we have the ability to spot check" for anyirrigation activities on those fields in 2012,Lubeck said.
He explained that most of the propertiesinvolved are enrolled in federal conservationprograms to temporarily retire irrigation,including the Conservation Reserve Program.Lubeck said the tax waiver forms must becompleted every year because program
enrollment terms vary from property toproperty.
If all the requirements are met, occupationtaxes on the non-irrigated acres will be waivedfor 2012.
Occupation tax revenues were included in thefiscal year 2012 LRNRD budget. In September,it was estimated that the combination of thenew taxes and $1.85 million in occupation taxescollected in 2007, but held in escrow, will createa pool of about $3.6 million.
In 2007, the Upper, Middle and LowerRepublican NRDs purchased surface waterfrom irrigation districts to deliver to Kansas for1943 Republican River Compact compliance.The payment plan was to issue bonds thatwould be repaid over time with revenue from aspecial property tax and occupation taxes.
Both taxes were challenged by basinlandowners, so the state loaned the NRDsmoney to pay for the 2007 water while thoselawsuits were decided.
The property tax was ruled unconstitutional,but the Nebraska Supreme Court upheld theNRDs' occupation tax authority in a Sept. 16,2011, ruling. The first $2,233,260 in the pool of2007 and 2012 LRNRD occupation taxes were
earmarked to repay the district's debt to thestate.
The balance of nearly $1.4 million will beinvested in projects to augment or re-timewater flowing into the river to ensureRepublican River Compact compliance. Lubecktold the Hub this morning that the goal is toput projects in place now to ensure complianceso that occupation taxes aren't required in thefuture.
The other part of the effort is waterconservation.
Lubeck said he expects a decision at the Feb.9 LRNRD board meeting to offer one more sign-up period for a soil-moisture sensor cost-shareprogram that would allow installation for the2012 irrigation season. The sensors helpfarmers better identify soil moisture needs andefficiently manage irrigation systems.
About 400 sensors were installed in 2011 onfields with more than 49,000 acres. Lubeck saidabout 100 more were reserved for 2012 in a fallsign-up.
The NRCS' Cooperative ConservationPartnership Initiative and the NRD will pay 75percent of the cost. Farmers pay 25 percent.
For more information, contact the LRNRDoffice in Alma or one of the field offices.
Waivers of LRNRD Occupation Taxes Due
Page 14 January 19, 2012Heartland Express
HEARTLAND CATTLEMANDedicated to the Livestock Industry
Farm and Ranch’s
Gothenburg Livestock AuctionGothenburg, NE
Selling:40 Yearling Bulls
15 Registered HeifersYour Purchases are Always Guaranteed
It’s been a good year for beef producers. Aboveaverage rainfall produced abundant hay. Recordprices made you grin all the way to the bank afterselling calves. While the generous rain and priceshave made ranching easier, the fundamentalshaven’t changed. Join us to learn more about theindustry at the 5 th annual “Cattlemen’s Day” atthe Gudmundsen Sandhills Lab on Wednesday,February 8 th from 8:30 am to 4 pm MT.
Registration starts at 8:30 am MT with coffeeand rolls. Jerry Volesky, UNL Range ManagementSpecialist, will start the morning with “grazingand haying strategies for Sandhill meadows”.
Then Rick Funston, UNL Reproductive Specialist,will discuss “options for managing reproduction inyour herd”. To finish out the morning, Tom Fieldof the Engler Agribusiness EntrepreneurshipProgram will talk about “building a successfulbeef business in changing times”. “Importantcriteria for selecting bulls” by Matt Spangler,UNL Beef Specialist, will follow lunch. A panel ofproducers will talk about the grazing strategiesthat work for them on their ranch.
Trade booths are encouraged to attend also.Contact Rick Funston at [email protected] orcall 308.696.6703 for a booth (cost $50).
Participants are encouraged to pre-register for themeal, sponsored by, Nebraska Grazing LandsCoalition, Farm Credit Services of America, andMerck Animal Health by January 30 th to theCentral Sandhills Extension Office(1.800.657.2113 or 308.645.2267) or Ellen at308.696.6701.
The Gudmundsen Sandhills Lab is located 3miles north of Whitman, then 5 miles east. TheWagonhammer Building is the building to theeast.
2012 University of NE - GudmundsenSandhills Laboratory Cattlemen’s Day
LINCOLN – On behalf of the U.S. LivestockGenetics Export (USLGE), the NebraskaDepartment of Agriculture (NDA) is remindingNebraskans of cost-share funds to promote U.S.livestock exports.
USLGE received funds which will be availableto private livestock breeders, companies, orcooperatives interested in promoting livestock,semen, or embryo sales in international marketsthrough December 31, 2012. These funds areavailable through the Market Access Program
(MAP) of the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) ofthe U.S. Department of Agriculture.
“This program has the potential to greatlyimprove the visibility of scope that Nebraskaranching operations of other livestock companiesin the international marketplace,” said StanGarbacz, the agricultural trade representative forNDA. “This cost-share program can be used toassist with beginning of increasing theirinternational presence.”
The MAP branded program provides for partialreimbursement (up to 50 percent) of the cost of
approved activities, such as internationaladvertising, the development, translation anddistribution of promotional materials, andparticipation in foreign trade shows andexhibitions. Funds cannot be used for travel orpersonnel reimbursement. An administrative feeis charged to participate in the program.
For more information about the program, pleasecontact Stan Garbacz at (402) 471-2341, or theUSLGE at (618) 548-9154.
NDA Encourages Nebraskans to Apply for Livestock Trade Cost-Share Funding
Receipts: 32,176 Last Week: 24,793 Last Year: 22,310Compared to last week, steers under 750 lbs sold mostly 4.00 to 8.00 higher, while those over 750 lbs sold mostly steadyto 3.00 higher. Heifers under 750 lbs sold mostly 3.00 to 6.00 higher, and those under 750 lbs sold mostly steady.Demand was good on all offerings and the offerings this week were mostly long timed weaned. Replacement heiferswere in demand again this week as several lots were quoted out as such and some were sold by the head. Weather hasbeen good this winter and several lots have been in fleshy condition. Slaughter cattle sold higher this week; live salessold 2.00 to 3.00 higher 124.00 and dressed sales traded steady to 2.00 higher at mostly 198.00. Of the feeders: steerscomprised of 63 percent of the run; heifers 37 with near 64 percent weighing over 600 lbs.
Week Ending 1/13/2012Eastern Nebraska: Compared to last week, alfal-
fa hay and dehy pellets sold steady and grass hay soldsteady to 5.00 higher. Ground and delivered to feed-lots steady. More corn stalk bales moving this week asproducers continue to try and get the most bang fortheir buck. Prices dollars per ton FOB stack in medi-um to large square bales and rounds, unless other-wise noted. Prices from the most recent reportedsales. Nebraska Department of Agriculture has a hayand forage directory available at www.agr.state.ne.usclick on Hay Information.
Northeast Nebraska: Alfalfa: Good large squarebales 145.00-165.00. Good large rounds 120.00-135.00. Grass Hay: Good large rounds 95.00-105.00;fair large rounds 70.00-75.00; small square bales125.00-135.00. Corn Stalks: large rounds 50.00-60.00.Dehydrated alfalfa pellets, 17 percent protein:280.00.
Platte Valley of Nebraska: Alfalfa: Premiumlarge square bales 200.00-250.00. Good large rounds130.00-145.00, few at 150.00. Premium small squarebales 250.00. Grass: Good large rounds 90.00-100.00.Alfalfa ground and delivered to feedlots: local haulsmostly 180.00, few at 185.00, longer hauls 190.00.Corn Stalks: large rounds 50.00-65.00, few up to70.00. Ground and delivered corn stalks 110.00-
Western Nebraska: Compared to last week: Haytrade very slow with many people reporting they aresold out for the year. Most hay moving is previousbought hay and a good percentage is moving south tothe drought stricken areas. Demand very good withvery good buying inquiry noted in all areas. Veryshort supplies noted in most areas. All prices dollarsper ton FOB stack in medium to large square balesand rounds, unless otherwise noted. Most horse haysold in small squares. Prices are from the mostrecent reported sales.
Apr. 12 Mar. 12 FeederSupport: 12352 15040Resistance 12902 15465
Live cattle trade has moved higher this week asfollow through buying from last weeks higher cashtrade has surfaced. The April contract is up $.40 onthe week, and most contracts are higher. FeederCattle contracts have continued to grind higher thisweek as well supported by strong prices in the salebarns. The cattle complex has moved above the 10and 20 day moving averages in most contracts, andthis should help promote some additional followthrough buying. The cutout moved lower on the weekwith choice down 1.69 to $182.53, and select down.75 to $174.46, as poor retail clearance helps pres-sure trade. After cash cattle traded at $123 in theSouth last week, asking prices have moved to the
$125 level this week, with bids surfacing at $120,dressed trade is being offered at $202 to $205.November export business was very good, and thereis growing speculation that export sales are support-ing the packer as domestic margins are sharply neg-ative. Feeder cattle auctions have been doing fairlybrisk business with cow calf and backgrounders con-tinuing to see record prices. Cash prices above $150for 700 weights have been common. The cattle onfeed report Friday is expected to show placementsdown 6% and marketings down 3%. Hedgers callwith questions.
Lean hog trade has continued to move higher this week asfund money flows back in on the break in grains, and exportrumors. The April futures contract has gained 90 on theweek, and has turned back above the key moving averages.This could support further fund buying and there is growingsentiment that production maybe slowing seasonally. Cashprices have held steady to firmer this week as packers arehaving a harder time sourcing the hogs they want. The porkcutout has been stable to firmer on expectations of strongerexport business. While the Chinese hog herd has expanded,there are questions about whether they will be able tomatching growing demand. The warmer than expected win-ter has helped to yield better than expected carcass weights.Packer margins are hovering around the break even line, sothe cutout will have to appreciate further in value to moti-vate packers to step up chain speed.
Open .126.800High .126.900Low . .126.625Close .126.875Change +0.200
By David M. FialaFuturesOne President
and ChiefAnalyst/Advisor
David M. Fiala’scompany, FuturesOne, is afull service riskmanagement and futuresbrokerage firm. A primary
focus of FuturesOne is to provide usefulagricultural marketing advice via daily,weekly, and monthly analysis of thedomestic and global markets.FuturesOne designs and servicesindividualized risk managementsolutions and will also actively managepricing decisions for ag producers.FuturesOne also provides advice andmanagement services for speculativeaccounts. David and his staff atFuturesOne draw on decades of
marketing, brokerage, farming andranching experience to provide customersand readers quality domestic and globalmarket analysis, news and advice.FuturesOne has Nebraska offices locatedin Lincoln, Columbus and Callaway—DesMoines and at the Chicago Board ofTrade. You may contact David via emailat fiala@ futuresone.com, by phone at 1-800-488-5121 or check FuturesOne out onthe web at www.futuresone.com.Everyone should always understand therisk of loss and margin needed whentrading futures or futures options.
The information contained herein isgathered from sources we believe to bereliable but cannot be guaranteed.Opinions expressed are subject to changewithout notice. There is significant risk intrading futures.
If you grow or feed alfalfa, you need to be here! UNL beef nutritionist Dr. Rick Rasby, Nebraska climatologist Al Dutcher, UNL ag economist Dr. Ron Hanson, commentator Trent Loos, the launch of the Alfalfa Valuation Analysis tool, a large trade show, tremendous fundraising auction—and much more!
Preregister and save 50%!Advanced registration just $10 per person.Includes all sessions, social, dinner, fundraising auction & trade show.
COZAD, NE—The Mid-America Alfalfa Expo &Conference has announced its program for the2012 event, which features an impressive line-upof alfalfa and agriculture experts as well as anindustry trade show and auction.
Sponsored by the Nebraska Alfalfa MarketingAssociation (N.A.M.A.), the Mid-America AlfalfaExpo & Conference will be held at the BuffaloCounty Fairgrounds in Kearney, Nebraska,February 7 and 8, 2012. The event is designedespecially for alfalfa producers, livestock/dairyproducers and others who are involved in alfalfaproduction, purchasing, hay feeding or processing.
"With the 2012 Expo & Conference, we havefocused on quality from beginning to end," saidBarb Kinnan, executive director of N.A.M.A. "Wehave two jam-packed days of information,education, and innovation—all designed to helphay and livestock producers improve production,performance and profitability." A large alfalfaindustry trade show and fundraising auction arealso included during the two-day event.
One of the most significant items on the agendais the introduction of the Alfalfa ValuationAnalysis, a powerful new approach to thestandardization of alfalfa quality and value thathas been developed by N.A.M.A. "This is game-changing stuff that alfalfa producers andpurchasers will not want to miss," Kinnan said.
Presenters for 2012 include:- Dr. Al Dutcher, Nebraska climatologist, who
will discuss weather patterns and forecasts for thecoming crop year;
- Dr. Ron Hansen, ag economics professor at theUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln, who will providea session on mulit-generational family farmownership and will also be the speaker at Tuesdayevening's dinner;
- Dr. Rick Rasby, University of Nebraska-Lincoln cattle feeding expert, who will focus onnutritional information for cow-calf producers;and
- Trent Loos, well-known commentator,columnist and ag advocate.
A panel discussion featuring a Nebraska alfalfaproducer, dairy producer, beef/feedlot producerand a hay producer from outside the region is alsoscheduled.
Registration includes admission to allpresentations and programs, a Tuesday afternoonreception, dinner Tuesday evening, admission tothe large alfalfa industry trade show and theopportunity to bid in the fundraising auction thattakes place Tuesday afternoon. The auctionfeatures a wide range of items including seed,harvesting equipment, supplies and othervaluable products and services.
Registration is $10 per person in advance(tickets must be purchased by noon, February 6,2012) and $20 at the door. Participants under theage of 18 are admitted at no charge. Registrationis available online at www.AlfalfaExpo.com. Formore information, call 1.800.743.1649 or visitwww.AlfalfaExpo.com.
FRE-FLO™ enhances evenyour best irrigation systems, as thewater still needs help to percolate intothe ground. This all-natural waterconditioning system is proven to giveyour crops a faster, healthier start bygetting the water where it needs to be. . . what a difference it makes!
FRE-FLOTM ON THE LEFT VS. ANOTHER WATER CONDITIONING BRAND ON THE RIGHT.
In this demonstration alfalfa field, FRE-FLOTM dramatically improved the cropyield by a very large margin. Results:690 tons more crop yield on 360acres (compared to the crop yieldbefore FRE-FLOTM was installed).
As a green technology innovator, FRE-FLOTM is a trailblazer, conditioningwater naturally since 1972. For 39years, various companies have tried tocopy FRE-FLOTM, but without succeed-ing. Using advanced scientific technol-ogy, with nature as inspiration, FRE-FLOTM continues to be the effective,eco-friendly, non-chemical scale busterand soil amendment tool.
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Page 18 January 19, 2012Heartland Express
GOVERNOR’S AG CONFERENCEContinued from page 1
OLD WEST OLD WESTREALTY & AUCTIONREALTY & AUCTION
Lindy Elson - BrokerRegina Andrijeski - Sales
310 Center Ave. Curtis, NE310 Center Ave. Curtis, NE
ABSOLUTE LANDAUCTION
To View Sale Bill go to: oldwestrealtyandauction.comLindy Elson, Broker - 308-367-7010
Regina Andrijeski, Sales - 308-737-7335
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Speakers at this year’s Conference include apanel that will discuss connecting consumerswith farmers and ranchers to share informationabout agricultural production. That panelconsists of Willow Holoubek from the Alliancefor the Future of Agriculture in Nebraska (A-FAN), Dawn Caldwell from Common GroundNebraska and Pete McClymont with WeSupport Agriculture. Other featured speakersinclude Bruce Knight of Strategic ConservationSolutions, who will provide an update on thefederal Farm Bill reauthorization. Dr. ArchieClutter with the Institute of Agriculture andNatural Resources at the University ofNebraska will explain how the University ispositioning itself to be a part of meeting thechallenge of providing food to a growing worldpopulation. Bill Holbrook from TheProExporter Network will discuss theopportunities and challenges farmers will facein meeting that food production demand. Thisyear’s keynote presentation will be delivered byJohn Doggett, senior lecturer of InternationalEntrepreneurship, Management andSustainability as well as a senior researchfellow at the University of Texas at Austin. Hewill discuss the role of Nebraska agriculture inthe future global economy.
Green said UNL can be the leading landgrant university focusing on food, fuel andwater issues. "I'm serious about that. That's arealistic goal," he said.Reputation growing
That expertise is being recognized. There is a new relationship with Bayer
CropScience AG to work on wheat germplasmresearch because of UNL's focus on plantbreeding.
Plans recently announced for UNL'sInnovation Campus on the old statefairgrounds include advanced greenhousespace on the second floor of a renovatedIndustrial Arts Building. Green said there willbe an automated plant phenotyping laboratoryto study relationships between plant traitsand genes. The only facility like it in the worldis in Australia.
He said that in two weeks, USDA officialswill announce a multimillion-dollar foodsafety grant for e.coli research for which UNLwill be the project leader and 11 otherinstitutions will be involved.
Links with other Big 10 schools, added torelationships already forged with veterinarymedicine programs at Kansas State and IowaState, will make UNL more competitive inattracting research dollars and students,Green said.
"We want to be a bigger university in fiveyears," he said, by growing from 25,000 to30,000 students. He hopes that 3,000 of thosenew students will be enrolled in agriculturalor natural resources programs.
Green is working to get more Nebraska'shigh school graduates on campus. He knowsthe other best opportunity for growth is fromother Big 10 states that have cappedenrollment at their universities.Conference links
Green told the Hub there will beopportunities for students within the Big 10 totake online classes from other universities.Nebraska will be the leading institution for
water and beef, he said, but if UNL studentswant to focus more on dairy, they can takedistance-learning classes offered by Wisconsinor Minnesota.
Green expects that agreements will beworked out for Big 10 students to pay in-statetuition to attend some graduate schoolprograms at the other conference campuses.
He plans to propose for the Big 10's landgrant universities a program already in placefor engineering schools called Big 10 Plus.Green said the program includes Big 10engineering schools, plus four otheruniversities with outstanding engineeringprograms.
He believes a similar program could be builtaround the Big 10's land grant universitieswith a few of the country's other leadingagriculture and natural resources universitiesinvited to participate.
When asked about Big 10 membershipbenefits for other University of Nebraskacampuses, Green said there will be somedirect benefits from Great Plains and Waterfor Food programs that already involve theentire system.
University of Nebraska Medical Centerofficials probably will collaborate on projectswith other Big 10 medical schools, he said,and there may be other "spillover effects" forUNK, UNO and the Nebraska College ofTechnical Agriculture as the expertise onthose campuses becomes known within the Big10.
BIG 10 MEMBERSHIP CREATES MANY OPPORTUNITIESContinued from page 1
"It's not just about football,"said Green, vice chancellor ofUNL's Institute of Agricultureand Natural Resources.
LINCOLN, Neb. – An Olympic Gold Medalist,the coronation of the Nebraska Dairy Princessand a seminar on handling high commodity pricesare on the agenda for the 2012 Nebraska DairyConvention March 13-14 at Divots ConferenceCenter in Norfolk. The convention also serves asa backdrop for the business meetings of several ofthe state’s dairy groups.
The meeting carries a theme of “The Future…IsNow,” and begins with a trade show opening at 10a.m., March 13, followed by a presentation titled“Managing Today’s Commodity Prices” by ArcherDaniels Midland nutritionist Ron Linquist at10:30 a.m. Midwest Dairy Association willpresent information on its child health andwellness initiative, Fuel Up to Play 60, at an 11:30
a.m. lunch. A 4:30 p.m. session, “Animal Welfare –the Next Challenge,” will be presented by WeSupport Agriculture. The trade show continuesuntil 5:30 p.m. on March 13.
The annual meeting of the Nebraska StateDairy Association takes place from 12:30 – 2 p.m.on March 13, and the Nebraska HolsteinAssociation will meet from 2:30 – 4 p.m. that day.
The March 13 events draw to a close with a wineand cheese reception at 5:30 p.m. Olympicbobsledder Curt Tomascevicz headlines thebanquet at 6:30 p.m. The new Nebraska DairyPrincess will also be crowned at that time.
Board meetings for the Nebraska Division ofMidwest Dairy Association and the NebraskaState Dairy Association will take place on
convention’s second day, March 14. The NebraskaDairy Industry Development Board, NebraskaDairy Industry Review Board will also meet thatday.
The 2012 Nebraska Dairy Convention is free toall Nebraska dairy producers, families and guests.Special room rates are available at the NorfolkLodge and Suites by calling 1-800-230-4134.Questions about the convention can be directed toRod Johnson, Nebraska State Dairy Association,at 402-261-5482 or [email protected] and sponsorship registration forms areavailable at nebraskamilk.org. The deadline toregister is March 2.
Nebraska Dairy Convention Scheduled for March 13-14
January 19, 2012 Heartland Express Page 19
Jan 27-28 - Lincoln (Lancaster County)PRCA Championship Rodeo; PershingCenter, 226 Centennial Mall S. The best rodeoathletes from the region compete. 7:30pmDerek Andersen (402) 441-8744 www.pershing-center.com
Jan 27-29 - Grand Island (Hall County) RV& Boat Show; Heartland Events Center -State Fair Exhibit Bldg, 700 E. Stolley ParkRd. Fri-Sat, noon-8pm; Sun, noon-5pm TonyStaab (308) 384-2040 www.richsonsrv.com
Jan 28 - Ainsworth (Brown County)Niobrara River Polar Bear Festival;Meadville NE Hwy 7 N. of Ainsworth toMeadville. The acclaimed annual dip in theNiobrara River. Bonfires, dance, music andmore. 3pm Mike Gering (402) 497-2440
Jan 28 - Wood River (Hall County) ToastedPonies Concert; Wood River High SchoolTheater, 13800 W. Wood River Rd. A fun mix ofbluegrass, Cajun, Western swing, Gospel andCeltic tunes. 7pm, Free Georgene Smidt (308)583-2606 www.wrcommunityfoundation.com/cel ebratewr.htm
Jan 29 - Milligan (Fillmore County) 7thAnnual Chilympiad; Milligan Auditorium,6th & Main Sts Chili chefs give it their all. Votefor your favorite chili! Donation Scott Oliva(402) 629-4446 www.visitfillmorecounty.org
Jan 29 - Norfolk (Madison County) Soup 'RArt III; Divots' DeVent Center. Sample soupsfrom topnortheast Nebraska restaurants, viewart displays from regional artists and enjoy livemusic. Noon-5pm (402) 371-7199 www.norfolkartscen ter.org
Jan 31-Mar 3 - Plattsmouth (Cass County)Quilts and Valentines; Cass CountyHistorical Museum, 646 Main St. Quilts andvalentines from the late 1800s and early 1900s.Tue-Sat, noon-4pm, $2.50/adult (402) 296-4770www.nebraskamuseums.org/casscountymuseum.htm
Feb 1-2 - North Platte (Lincoln County)Buffalo Bill Farm & Ranch Expo; D&N EventCenter, 501 E. Walker Rd Nebraska's largestindoor equipment showroom. 9am-5pm, Free (308)532-4966 www.nparea.com/events/frexpo.htm
Feb 1-29 - Grand Island (Hall County)Regional Photography Show; Prairie WindsArt Center, 112 W. 3rd St. Photographers from amulti-state area compete for more than $800worth of awards. Reception Feb 3, 5:30-8pm, Free(308) 381-4001 www.prairiewindsart.com
Feb 3-4 - Grand Island (Hall County) MonsterTruck Winter Nationals; Heartland EventsCenter, 700 E. Stolley Park Rd. Plenty of racingand destruction as the trucks walk all over othercars, vans and anything else they can crush. EdBeckley (940) 683-4742 www.checkeredflagpro-ductions.com
Feb 3-5 - Lincoln (Lancaster County) SesameStreet Live; Pershing Center, 226 CentennialMall S. Fun-filled showed with your favoriteSesame Street characters. Derek Andersen (402)441-8744 www.pershingcenter.com
Feb 4 - Lincoln (Lancaster County)Dinosaurs and Disasters! University ofNebraska State Museum, Morrill Hall, 14th &Vine Sts A fun day of science with learning sta-tions, games, activities and demonstrations. $5adults, $3 children, $10 family Dana Ludvik (402)472-2642 www.museum.unl.edu
Feb 9-12 - Omaha (Douglas County) OmahaHome & Garden Expo; CenturyLink Center, 455N. 10th St. A showcase of everything for the home,inside and out. Thurs, 5-10pm; Fri-Sat, 11am-9pm; Sun, 11am-5pm, $3.50-$7 Mike Mancuso(402) 346-8003 www.showofficeonline.com
Feb 11 - Grand Island (Hall County)Heartland Hoops Classic; Heartland EventsCenter, 700 E. Stolley Park Rd. Tino Martinez(308) 398-0026
Feb 11 - Lewellen (Garden County)Valentine's Sweetheart Dinner; 17 RanchWinery. Dinner and wine tasting. Bruce Burdick(308) 778-5542 www.17ranchwinery.com
Feb 11 - Niobrara (Knox County) 5th AnnualSoup Cook-Off; WFLA Hall Four categories ofsoup: chili, chicken, miscellaneous and best ofshow. The public chooses the winners. 11am-1pm,$3-$5 (402) 857-3838
Feb 11 - Valentine (Cherry County) HeartCity Bull Bash - Valentine's Main Event; MainSt. One day display show of the best bulls in theregion. Events for the entire family including dis-plays, concert and wine tastings. Free MarshaBauer (402) 376-3000 www.bullbash.com
Feb 15-Mar 31 - Springfield (Sarpy County) ATouch of Japan at Springfield Artworks; 183Main St. Exhibit featuring items of day to day lifein Japan. Clothing, decorative arts and photos.Tue-Fri, 1-5pm; Sat, 11am-4:30pm (402) 301-9162www.springfieldartworks.com
Feb 17-Apr 1- Grand Island (Hall County)Wings Over the Platte Art Exhibit and Sale;Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer, 3133 W.Hwy 34. One of central Nebraska's largest andmost eclectic art shows features life on the PlatteRiver and its tributaries. Mon-Sat, 9am-5pm; Sun,noon-5pm, $6-$8 Mike Bockoven (308) 385-5316www.stuhrmuseum.org
Feb 18-19 - Grand Island (Hall County) Tri-City Street Rods Auto Show; Fonner Park andHeartland Events Center, Exhibition Building.Street rods, customs, trucks, motorcycles and ven-dors all under one roof. Ron Von Behren (308) 379-4580 heartlandeventscenter.com
Feb 19-May 8 - Grand Island (Hall County)Live Thoroughbred Horse Racing; FonnerPark, 700 E. Stolley Park Rd. The horses return toFonner Park for LIVE racing Fri-Sun. (308) 382-4515 www.fonnerpark.com
Schedule of Events
By Lori Potter, The Kearney Hub
KEARNEY - Reports filed by RepublicanBasin farmers in the Tri-Basin NaturalResources District provided critical data forUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln research thatanswers criticism of irrigated agriculture.
In a paper for Proceedings of the NationalAcademy of Sciences, UNL agronomist KenCassman and Patricio Grassini, a researchprofessor in agronomy and horticulture, saytheir research shows that growing irrigatedcorn in Nebraska is a highly efficient use ofenergy, water and fertilizer.
According to a UNL Institute of Agricultureand Natural Resources press release, theincreased yields more than offset the energycost of inputs. "We found that irrigated cornhad substantially larger net energy yield andless greenhouse gas emissions per unit of grainproduced than corn from rain-fed systems withmuch smaller input levels and lower yields,"Grassini said.
"It justifies what we're doing," saidSmithfield farmer Dennis Gengenbach, who isa Nebraska Corn Board director. "It shows weare good stewards of our resources. With thesebaselines, we can become more efficient andfeed more people."
Cassman said the findings are important forefforts to meet growing global needs for food,feed, fuel and fiber on existing farmland. Theworld's population is forecast to grow from 7billion to 9 billion by 2050.
"If the goal is simply to reduce greenhousegases or to have the highest possible energyefficiency, you'd do that producing cropswithout any inputs at all, or by getting rid ofagriculture entirely. Of course that's not atenable position," Cassman said. "Thechallenge, therefore, is how to produce enoughfood in a way that also protects the
environment, conserves natural resources andminimizes the greenhouse gas emissions fromagriculture."
He said the widely held perception ofirrigated agriculture as energy wasteful fails totake into account crop-management changes inrecent decades that have increased yieldswithout requiring more fertilizer or irrigation.Research, data ties
Gengenbach was the link between the UNLresearchers and the Tri-Basin data forsouthern Gosper, Phelps and Kearney counties.
General Manager John Thorburn said Tri-Basin is the only NRD that collects both water-and fertilizer-use reports for a large area. In aresearch-related article published last fall,Cassman and Grassini talked about gatheringdata from 521 fields, averaging 114 acres, for2005-2007.
Previous research used secondary data fromU.S. Department of Agriculture producersurveys. "In our study, each field has its owndatabase," Cassman said. "We could go back tothe same field in 10 years and see how thingshave changed."
Thorburn said that when the researchersapproached the Nebraska Corn Board forproject funding, Gengenbach knew about theTri-Basin data because he's one of the farmerswho makes those reports.
"The more he (Cassman) talked about it, themore I realized the data was there,"Gengenbach, including reports on tillagemethods used.
He said the UNL research is valuable forNebraska and irrigated agriculture because itsets an accurate baseline for modern farmingpractices from which more conservation andefficiency practices can extend.
A study covering thousands of acres couldn'thave been done without the Tri-Basin data. "Wecouldn't afford to gather that data through the
university," Gengenbach said, and similar datacollection would have taken years.
Thorburn said that in addition to pointing toopportunities to increase efficiency and yieldson Nebraska farms, the UNL research helps intalking about the many positive aspects ofirrigated agriculture, including its value instabilizing commodity markets, producingethanol and providing grain for export sales.
Gengenbach said the environmental picturefor irrigated corn will continue to improve asmore engines are run on biofuels that reducegreenhouse gases.Results based on yields
A key to the UNL research, Grassini said,was to assess energy efficiency and greenhousegas emissions of cropping systems based onyields, not land area.
To illustrate his point, he said it would bepossible to achieve a large decrease inemissions in the Tri-Basin counties byconverting to dryland agriculture. However, itwould require an additional 308,000 acres ofrain-fed corn production in Nebraska to makeup the estimated 50 percent decrease in grainyields.
Grassini described that as "penny-wise andpound-foolish."
He said the research shows that achievinghigh yields, high energy efficiency and lowglobal warming potential are not mutuallyexclusive goals in real-world commercialfarming.
Grassini and Cassman now are conductingsimilar research on soybean production.
The two-year corn study cost $600,000 andincluded funding from the corn and soybeancheckoffs and the Nebraska Center for EnergySciences Research.
UNL Researchers: Irrigated Corn Yields Offset Energy Use, Global Warming Issues
1300 - Grain Harvest EquipCombines, Heads, Augers, Dryers, Carts, etc.
1400 - Other EquipmentSnowblowers, Blades, Shop Tools, Washers, Heaters etc.
1500 - Hay and GrainAlfalfa, Prairie Hay, Straw, Seed, Corn, Bean, etc.
1800 - Livestock EquipChutes, Gates, Panels, Feeder Wagons, Bunks, etc.
1900 - CattleFeeder Cattle, Heifers, Bulls, Services, etc.
2000 - SwineFeeders, Sows, Boars, etc.
2100 - SheepFeeder Lambs, Ewes, Bred Ewes
2200 - HorsesRegistered, Grade, Studs, Tack, Mares, etc.
2300 - Other AnimalsDogs, Poultry, Goats, Fish, etc.
2500 - ServicesHelp Wanted, Custom Work and Services, etc.
2600 - TransportationCars, Pickups, Truck, Trailers, ATV, Planes, etc.
2800 - ConstructionDozers, Scrapers, Loaders, Crawlers, Heavy Trucks, etc.
3000 - Other EquipmentAntique Items, Fencing, Buildings, Catchall, etc.
5000 - Real EstateFarm Real Estate, Non Farm Real Estate
6000 - Bed and BreakfastYour home away from home
7000 - Special Events Guide Hunts, Fishing Trips, Singles
Deadline for next issue: THURSDAY, January 26th. The next Heartland Express will be printed on THURSDAY, February 2nd.To run a classified ad in the Farm and Ranch, simply fill out the form below and mail it to us with a check. This will eliminate any errors and help keep the classified cost to a minimum.
Colt StartedColt started on cattleHorse breaking and trainingProblem solvedCutting and reined cow horsesRanch horsesRanch rope workArena workThousands acres to ride out onClinics and lessons
