Corn Congress Leadership Mission

In July, the Nebraska Corn Board, through our corn farmer’s checkoff investments, supported eight Nebraska agricultural leaders to join corn growers, staff and leaders during the National Corn Growers Association’s (NCGA) Annual Corn Congress meeting.

The meeting took place in our Nation’s capital from July 18 - July 21. Throughout the three days, the eight Nebraska Corn Leaders were able to interact with nearly 200 farmers and leaders from all across the U.S., Nebraska’s Congressional Delegation and agribusiness leaders from some of the leading agribusiness companies. They were also provided with the opportunity to advance their personal and professional leadership skills, develop an understanding of the role and importance that NCGA plays in agricultural policy and engage in a hands-on tour of agricultural production in the Delmarva Region.

Below is an outline of the agenda:

• Monday, July 18: flight to Washington DC and Nighttime Tour of City and Monuments 
• Tuesday, July 19: tour of the Delmarva Region, including tours of: Oyster Recovery Center, Grasonville, MD; Nagel Cucumber Farm, Denton, MD; Kenny Brothers Grading Station, Bridgeville, DE; and an evening activity with leaders from Missouri, Ohio and Iowa 
• Wednesday, July 20: NCGA’s Corn Congress, Capitol Hill Visits and agribusiness Meetings 
• Thursday, July 21: NCGA’s Corn Congress, Agribusiness meetings and flights home 

Attendees of the Nebraska's Corn Congress Leadership Mission included: Sam Krueger of Blue Hill, Curtis Stallbaumer of Oconto, Toni Rasmussen of Newman Grove, David Schuler of Bridgeport, Clint Shipman of Red Cloud, Andrea Wach of Wauneta, Emily Puls of Emerson and Amanda Kowalewski of Gothenburg.

Below is a video that Nebraska Corn Leader, Andrea Wach, made about the experience. (or click here to view)



Additionally, below is what Nebraska Corn Leader, Clint Shipman, shared about his experience…

“I had the privilege of attending the National Corn Growers Association Corn Congress in Washington, D.C. The Nebraska Corn Board sponsored me, as a Nebraska Corn Leader. This experience has helped to further develop my leadership skills along with broadening my knowledge of the United States agricultural industry.

The observations I made during this event were very diverse. We had the opportunity to tour Harris Seafood Co., which has an oyster farm in Queensland County, Maryland. The biggest takeaway from this experience was hearing the owner, Jason, talk about his operation. The phrases, “nitrogen and phosphorus management” and “planting this year went smoothly”, are two very familiar statements. He explained one of his biggest concerns was labor along with over-regulation when it pertains to the minimum wage; two issues that also pertain to farm operations here in Nebraska.

While in Queensland County we made a stop at Nagal Farms. Hannah Cowley gave us a tour of the cucumber harvest process in one of her fields. She outlined the growing season of cucumbers. Forty-five days is all that is needed for cucumbers to reach maturity, making it possible for double cropping. Soybeans or cucumbers can be the second crop. 

The cucumbers raised will later become pickles and the farmers use Kenny Brothers Cumber as a distributor to companies such as Clausen, Vlasic, or Allan Pickle, to name a few. Viewing the many steps this unique crop goes through before I get to see it inside of my fridge was intriguing to watch.

At the NCGA Corn Congress Meeting we attended on Wednesday, July 20th, we saw delegates vote on new policy along with new National Corn Board candidates be elected to the Board. The opportunity to witness the process that the association uses to adopt a policy at the national level is something I can share with farmers in my community. When associations talk about grassroots, I now can say I have seen the policy ideas go from the farmer’s field all the way to the state and national level. 

The individuals I was introduced to and able to network with while in Washington, DC made me realize the tight-knit community the agriculture industry is. Large in scope, but also still reflects the relationships that mirror small farm characteristics. Agriculture is one of the most progressive industries in the world, but it has not lost sight that the most powerful tools are to work together as a team. The experience I had during Corn Congress showed me the importance of coming together to find common goals when working to develop sound policy in a government that continues to be over-regulated.”

Interested in applying for the 2017 Corn Congress Leadership Mission? 

Email Emily Thornburg for details: emily.thornburg@nebraska.gov. 

Hitting the ground running!

By Colton Flower, NCGA intern, Washington, DC.

Greetings!

Fields of corn have been replaced by the
Capital Building on my daily commute this summer.

I’m Colton Flower and this summer I am fortunate enough to be interning with the National Corn Growers Association in their Washington D.C office. As the policy and membership intern, I assist the Directors of Public Policy in a variety of ways from farm bill research to farm visits and everything in between. Over the past few weeks I have been able to see the legislative process first hand and experience life in D.C.

Everyday on my commute to and from the office I walk right past the steps of the Capital Building. This is a view I remember first taking in seven years ago on an 8^th grade class trip. Back then I never would have imagined I’d be working on public policy just a few blocks away from that building. Growing up in the panhandle of Nebraska and raising club cattle the issues being debated on the Hill, were probably the last thing on my mind, but I have always loved advocating for agriculture and was really involved in FFA. The idea of working in public policy didn’t cross my mind until I had the opportunity to attend Corn Congress last year as a part of the Nebraska CornBoard’s leadership program. This really opened my eyes to all that takes place here in the Capital and how much of an impact the work here can have on so many people all across the country. I am very grateful for this internship opportunity and to have been selected for it by the Nebraska Corn Board, who is creating so many amazing opportunities for students like me.

As I mentioned earlier, I grew up in the southern part of the panhandle, Scottsbluff. This spring, I finished my third year at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln where I am majoring in agricultural education- leadership with minors in animal science and agribusiness entrepreneurship. It has been great to work on projects and learn about legislation that I hear so much about in various classes. I really hit the ground running, in my first week alone, I was compiling crop yield information and reading through the farm bill and the next day visiting Chip Bowling’s farm to discuss the various regulations farmers are facing with Georgetown Law students.  It has been a great start and I look forward to what the remaining weeks bring.

Nebraska Corn Applauds Nebraska Congressional Leaders for Support of E15 Legislation

The Nebraska Corn Growers Association and Nebraska Corn Board would like to thank Senator Deb Fischer for co-sponsoring and Representative Adrian Smith for introducing a bill to expand the volatility waiver for blends of American Ethanol up to 15 percent (E15), ultimately increasing consumers' access to higher blends of American Ethanol year-round.

"We appreciate Senator Fischer and Representative Smith for their continued efforts to support America’s ethanol industry,” said Larry Mussack, farmer from Decatur, Nebraska and president of the Nebraska Corn Growers Association. “Their joint effort on the E15 bill not only supports the market for ethanol producers but also expands consumer choice at the pump.”

“From reducing our dependence on foreign oil, to expanding our use of renewable fuels, to improving the air we breathe, there are many benefits to expanding the volatility waiver for E15,” said Tim Scheer, farmer from St. Paul, Nebraska and chairman of the Nebraska Corn Board. “Passing this legislation will ensure that consumers have access to energy that is clean, renewable, and American-grown.”

Reid Vapor Pressure measures the evaporation rate of gasoline. Under current regulations, summertime volatility restrictions are in place from June 1 through September 15, but E10 receives a volatility waiver. This legislation would extend the same waiver to E15 blends. Similar legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives in April.

Nebraska Corn Representatives Tell Ethanol's Story on Capitol Hill

"Biofuels Beltway March” Allows Grassroots Supporters to Share Personal Stories of Ethanol's Impact

Ethanol advocates from across the nation came together in Washington, DC in late March as part of a "Biofuels Beltway March" to share their ethanol stories and communicate the widespread grassroots support for American Ethanol and the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). The conversations with policymakers were part of the annual march sponsored by the American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE), which took place March 24-25, 2015.

Nearly 70 corn farmers, ethanol plant managers, retailers and other ethanol supporters took part in the Biofuels Beltway March. Members of the group met with Congressional Representatives and Senators from 44 states including Nebraska, Georgia, Minnesota, South Carolina and Texas.

Nebraska's corn industry was represented by Jon Holzfaster, a farmer from Paxton, Nebraska and director on the Nebraska Corn Board, and Kim Clark, director of biofuels development for the Nebraska Corn Board.

"The best lobbyists for American Ethanol are not lobbyists at all," Holzfaster said. "It's the farmers, retailers and rural community leaders who have seen ethanol's dramatic and positive impact on their communities, their economies and their future. The focus of this initiative was to share those personal stories, put a face on the industry and show policymakers—without a doubt—that the RFS is working for our nation."

"We used this opportunity to share that American Ethanol fuel blends such as E15, E30 and E85 provide greater consumer choice at the pump, create jobs across the country, improve our environment and promote cleaner, healthier air for all of us to breathe," said Clark.

While in Washington, DC, participants from Nebraska attended the Nebraska Breakfast, a 70-year-old tradition that allows constituents to engage with the Nebraska delegation and get updates on legislation and issues. Senator Hugh Butler began the Nebraska Breakfast tradition in 1943. It is held every Wednesday when both the House and Senate are in session.

U.S. Senator Johanns bids farewell

U.S. Sen. Mike Johanns has forever been a supporter of Nebraska Agriculture.

In his final term as U.S. Senator from Nebraska, Johanns delivered his farewell address on the Senate floor. Below are some excerpts of his remarks:

“From my first day as a county commissioner, throughout my service as a Lincoln City Council Member, as Mayor of our capital city, Lincoln, as the Governor of Nebraska, in President Bush’s Cabinet and now as a United States Senator, no doubt about it, if I could turn back the clock I’d just do it again. I am so grateful for the trust placed in me and the support of so many people who have made this service possible…

“In my various roles, I’ve been with world leaders, spiritual heads, cultural icons, presidents, vice presidents, prime ministers, queens and kings – all memorable experiences, to be sure. But I will say… that’s not the extraordinary people about that I speak about today. My real inspiration comes from ordinary people who I’ve observed and watched do remarkable, extraordinary things…

“There were victories won during my time here and I am pleased to have led some of those charges. Yet, I have to acknowledge, many battles do remain. I would be dishonest if I denied feeling some frustration over the absence of will to address issues of paramount importance to our country. But I know that no issue is powerful enough to shred the fabric of our great nation. Rather, these challenges are overpowered by the ordinary people who do extraordinary things, by the character of our people, and by the wisdom of our Founders.”

Watch the YouTube video for his full remarks:

Thank you, Sen. Johanns for your support of Nebraska agriculture and service to the state!

View other blog posts including Mike Johanns on the Nebraska Corn Kernels blog:

• NeCGA honors Johanns, elects officers
• Nebraska Corn Board supports proposed ethanol legislation
• EPA calls Senators 'agricultural alarmists' on dust regs
• For fairness to farmers, consumers, let's switch to 'corn sugar' on labels
• Trade agreements offer opportunities for Nebraska, U.S. agriculture 
• Podcast: Farm Bill Discussion

Washington, D.C. & ag community in D.C. is a truly distinct place

By Morgan Nelson, NCGA-DC intern, Masters of Public Service and Administration Candidate at the Bush School of Government at Texas A&M, Legal Studies graduate from Chadron State College

Time flies while you’re having fun! The saying may be cliché, but it proves true time and time again.  This is my final week in DC and I can hardly believe it.

A couple of weeks ago, Corn Congress lived up to all of the stories I’ve heard from coworkers, former interns, and friends.  It was fantastic to see a grower-led organization make policy decisions, collect information, and act as a democratic body.  For a government nerd like me, it was a truly fantastic thing to witness.  It was great to meet the group from Nebraska and participate in the Public Policy Action Team.  I also got to meet my St. Louis counterpart (Joe Conrad) and have some great conversations about the summer and politics in general.

Washington D.C. is a truly distinct place, and the same can be said for the Ag Community in D.C.  All summer I’ve kept contact with interns from Ag organizations, between hearings and the intern lunch series we’ve maintained, I’ve experienced firsthand the true camaraderie within the Ag community in D.C.  Most news of D.C. consists of polarity, lack of cooperation, and dissatisfaction. I’m proud to report that while Washington D.C. appears to get nothing done, the organizations interacting with The Hill work tirelessly and put in extensive hours to ensure that things do get accomplished.  Where would we be without industry and shareholder input?

 

The Nebraska Corn Board has a truly fantastic program, one that contributes both to the individuals it hosts and the state as a whole.  Professional experience and gaining a world perspective doesn’t occur for Nebraska’s young professionals without investment and mentorship.  Bryan Brower (USGC intern) and I have had a great summer working together and we even got to meet Senator Johanns and Congressman Smith during our Corn Congress duties.

Flying to Nebraska is great not only because I’ll be headed home, but I’ve got a theory that Nebraska bound flights are consistently the nicest flights I take (in terms of people, airports can be rough!).  Between the red clothes (go big red!) and the friendly folks I always end up sitting by, I’ve concluded that “Midwest Nice” isn’t a myth.

It’s been a truly fantastic summer, one that I couldn’t have accomplished without the NE staff, NCGA DC staff, and last but not least my family.  Look out Nebraska, I’m coming back!

A new Farm Bill…finally.

The agriculture industry has been waiting for years. Literally. For the day a new Farm Bill – or the Agriculture Act of 2014, is signed into law. 

After several years of deliberations, multiple extensions, and countless hours of work, President Obama is signed the Agriculture Act of 2014 at Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow’s alma mater, Michigan State University.

According to Brownfield news, Chairman Lucas says this has been a long time coming.  “I’ve told my committee members I feel much better now that it’s passed the House, it’s passed the Senate, and the President has signaled he’ll sign it,” he says.  “When you consider how much effort it took to get here and when you consider how difficult this process has been, I’m not sure I will sleep with both eyes closed until the dry ink copy of the bill gets to the National Archives for filing.”

Ahead of the bill’s signing, President Obama said the Agriculture Act of 2014 is a sign that Republicans and Democrats can come together in Washington and work together. “With this bill we break the cycle of short-sided, crisis driven partisan decision-making and actually get this stuff done,” he says.  “It’s a good sign.  And that’s the way you should expect Washington to work.”

Farm Bill. Jobs Bill. Conservation Bill. Food Bill.

Despite its name, the President reminds us the Farm Bill doesn’t just help farmers. “Secretary Vilsack calls it a jobs bill,” he says.  “An innovation bill.  An infrastructure bill.  A research bill. A conservation bill. It’s like a Swiss Army Knife.”

Now that the Farm Bill has been signed, it’s up to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to implement the programs.

To do that, Agriculture Secretary Vilsack says teams for each Farm Bill title have been put in place.

“We’ve asked those teams to identify the rules, regulations and guidelines that have to be adopted because of new or different modifications to existing programs,” said Vilsack.

The Secretary says another group will be responsible for prioritizing what needs to be done first.

“For example, it’s fairly obvious to me that we have to have the disaster assistance for livestock operators restored as quickly as possible because these folks have been waiting for a couple of years,” the Secretary said. “There’s a new dairy program, there’s obviously a revenue protection program, there are slight changes to crop insurance, and those things are obviously priorities.”

Listen to the audio interview with Vilsack from Brownfield, here.

Intern experiences testimonies on the Hill; hosted ag intern luncheons

By Kyle McGinn, NCGA-DC Intern 

Good afternoon. This is my third and final blog entry. My internship with the National Corn Growers Association Washington Office concluded on August 2nd. I am truly saddened to leave Washington, for I have greatly enjoyed my summer here with the National Corn Growers Association. However, I am equally eager to return to the Cornhusker State and resume my studies at the University of Nebraska.

One of the true highlights of my final few weeks with NCGA was witnessing Ms. Pam Johnson (President of NCGA and a Floyd, IA Corm Producer) testify in front of the United State House of Representatives Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Energy and Power on July 24th. The Subcommittee has been holding a series of oversight hearings regarding the Renewable Fuels Standard over the course of the summer, many of which I have had attended. This particular hearing was focused on ‘Stakeholder Perspectives.’ Ms. Johnson appeared alongside representatives from the National Chicken Council, the Environmental Working Group, and the National Council of Chain Restaurants. She offered a strong defense of corn-based ethanol, noting that “Since its enactment in 2005, [the RFS] has created jobs, lessened our dependence on foreign oil and improved the environmental footprint of our nation’s transportation fuels.” Ms. Johnson then withstood some tough questioning from Committee members; all NCGA members should be proud of her advocacy.


Additionally, as Bryce Vaughn mentioned, we had the opportunity to host an ‘Ag Intern’ luncheon here at the joint United States Grain Council-NCGA Washington office, on July 23. Over the course of the summer, Bryce and I have had the opportunity to join a broad network of agricultural interns working in the Washington area at series of luncheon events, to learn more about Washington based agriculture organizations. We met on 10 occasions or so, to learn about various organizations including CropLife America, the National Chicken Council, the National Pork Producers Council, the National Millers Association, and many others. Our USGC/NCGA event was greatly enjoyable. Approximately 25 interns attended, representing both government and trade organizations. Mr. Jon Doggett (Vice President of Public Policy, NCGA) and Mr. Tom Sleight (President and CEO, USGC) offered a bit of information about the two respective groups, and the agricultural community in Washington. These luncheons further demonstrate the tight-knit relationships between the agricultural community in Washington.

In my final weeks, I have been able to see a few more sites of Washington, including the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, the USDA-led National Arboretum, and the National Portrait Gallery. I would certainly recommend these lesser known (and free!) attractions to anyone visiting Washington.

Lastly, I wish to express my sincere gratitude to the Nebraska Corn Board, for affording me this opportunity. I have learned a tremendous amount; I hope that I have done you proud. I leave with a much greater knowledge of agricultural production. I also wish to express my gratitude to the National Corn Growers Association, for hosting me this summer.

Congressional Countdown for the Farm Bill

32 days, 12 hours, 57 minutes, 05 seconds….04, 03, 02, 01, 00.

The countdown is ticking on the Nebraska Corn homepage to show Nebraska farmers the time left that Congress has to take action on a new, five-year farm bill.

Once they are back in session, the House will have only nine working days until the current Farm Bill extension expires.

This lack of Congressional action on a Farm Bill could stifle the economic vitality that Nebraska agriculture has brought to the state over the past several years.

According to Tim Scheer of St. Paul, chairman of the Nebraska Corn Board, “All the progress achieved and contributions that agriculture has made in the past decade are at risk if Congress continues to drag its feet,” he said. “We need Nebraska farmers to speak up now and get our nation’s leaders to cooperate on a Farm Bill. Congressional leadership stated they were not hearing from farmers last fall, so we need to get our voices heard this year.”

The current Farm Bill, crafted in 2008 and extended last year, is set to expire September 30, 2013. If a new bill or an extension of the 2008 bill is not passed, federal price supports revert to their 1949 levels. If that happens, some farmers, such as those involved in wheat or dairy production, would be big winners—while others, such as soybean farmers, would get nothing at all because some commodities were added after the 1949 legislation.

“Nebraska farmers should not settle for another extension of the 2008 bill. We need a new Farm Bill that is in step with what is happening today and with the future challenges and opportunities for agriculture—and we need it now,” Scheer said. “Without Congressional action, America’s farm policy will become a patchwork of policy that is unworkable for producers trying to run their businesses and plan for the future.”

Read the full news release.

The Nebraska Corn Board has established a page on its website that enables farmers to reach Nebraska and key federal policymakers via email to make comment.

• When communicating with our Nebraska delegation, be sure to thank them for their support for a new Farm Bill—and urge them to put pressure on their leadership to pass a new Farm Bill.
• American agriculture needs a Farm Bill that is in step with today’s economy and an increasingly competitive global marketplace.
• America’s farmers and ranchers need a long-term Farm Bill in order to plan, operate their businesses and provide a reliable, abundant food supply.
• We need to ensure sustained food security and food assistance for our nation. A piecemeal approach is simply not acceptable.
• Simply extending the current Farm Bill—or worse yet, reverting back to decades-old legislation—is not an acceptable alternative.
• Agriculture has been a bright spot in our nation’s economy—improving our trade balance, creating jobs and revitalizing rural communities across the nation.
• We need the assurance of crop insurance, trade promotion, and exports to provide stability, demand and growth.
• Ag research is critical to maintaining America’s global leadership in food production.
• It is time to set aside political partisanship and do the right thing—pass a Farm Bill now.

CONTACT KEY POLICY MAKERS

Click on name to contact via email.

Nebraska Representatives:

• Senator Deb Fischer • Tel: 202.224.6551
• Senator Mike Johanns • Tel: 202.224.4224
• Congressman Jeff Fortenberry • Tel: 202.225.4806
• Congressman Adrian Smith • Tel: 202.225.6435
• Congressman Lee Terry • Tel: 202.225.4155

National Representatives:

• Speaker of the House: John Boehner • Tel: 202.225.6205
• House Majority Leader Eric Cantor • Tel: 202.225.2815
• House Majority Whip Kevin McCarthy • Tel: 202.225.2915

Leadership trip to D.C. first for Nebraska Corn delegation

Each summer, corn grower leaders and staff from state and national corn associations gather in Washington D.C. for a series of action team and committee meetings, visits with their respective state’s Congressional delegation and the semi-annual National Corn Growers Association’s Corn Congress.

The Nebraska Corn Board sponsored eight individuals that have been involved in the Nebraska FFA, 4-H or LEAD program to join these corn grower leaders to attend Corn Congress. This opportunity was invaluable to introduce the leadership group to policy development through the National Corn Growers Association, understand current issues (Farm Bill, immigration, RFS, etc), hear from leaders within various Federal Agencies, engage with policy leaders through Hill visits, and network with industry leaders to allow for growth in leadership development and agricultural policy knowledge.

Don Hutchens, executive director of the Nebraska Corn Board who accompanied the leadership group said it was encouraging to witness their enthusiasm and participation.

“They were not shy in asking our Nebraska delegation questions on the Farm Bill, Renewable Fuels Standard, Immigration and Trade,” said Hutchens. “They were also joined by three of the national interns sponsored by the Corn Board.  The Corn Board is sponsoring internships with the D.C. office of NCGA, and the St. Louis office.  Also an intern at the USGC office. They had the opportunity to hear Sec. Vilsack of USDA, briefed on trade issues by Darci Vetter the Acting Under Sec. of Farm and Foreign Ag Service (a native Nebraskan), and Jim Bair of the North American Millers Association.”

Natasha Hongsermeier, a delegate on the leadership tour described the trip as a wonderful experience. “I am truly a more knowledgeable and a more informed ag youth because of all of the experiences offer by our trip to Washington, D.C.”

Another delegate on the tour, Morgan Zumpfe, said, “This experience was awesome for me because it combined three of my favorite things: meeting new people, trying new things, and promoting agriculture. You can research the Farm Bill and polity as much as you want, but it isn’t quite real until you get to see it happen in real life.”

Intern perspective on Corn Congress

By Kyle McGinn, NCGA-DC Intern 

Greetings! If it’s July, then it must be time for Corn Congress! This past week marked the annual ‘Corn Congress’ event in Washington, D.C., which is a national gathering of corn grower-leaders from across the country. Representatives from 28 states were in attendance. The Nebraska contingent consisted of Corn Board Members, Corn Board Staff, and Nebraska Lead Participants. I greatly enjoyed meeting those members of the Board who I had not yet had the opportunity to meet. Casey Campbell, the Nebraska Corn Board Intern at the National Corn Growers Association office in St. Louis had the opportunity to join us in D.C. as well; it was wonderful sharing stories and experiences with her.

During the beginning part of the week, the NCGA Committees held smaller breakout sessions. I participated in the Production and Stewardship Action Team (PSAT) meetings. The PSAT meetings focused on issues of sustainability. One of the most interesting sessions featured Rob Kaplan, Senior Manager of Sustainability at Walmart. Walmart is quite interested in pursuing sustainability initiatives throughout their supply chain, which obviously includes American corn producers. I believe it will be important for corn producers to engage themselves in conversations concerning sustainability initiatives, to ensure that they will indeed promote continuous growth while also observing producers interests.

One of the most important events of the week was the Corn Board elections. The Corn Board provides leadership for the National Corn Growers Association. Jon Holzfaster, a member of the Nebraska Corn Board and a corn grower from Paxton, successfully sought reelection.

Secretary Tom Vilsack of the United States Department of Agriculture also made an appearance, in order to receive the President’s Award from NCGA President Pam Johnson. Mr. Vilsack implored the growers in attendance to send a strong message to their representatives in Congress, that they deserve a viable Farm Bill and other needed legislative programs.

Later in the week, I accompanied the Nebraska Corn Board to meetings with the Nebraska Congressional delegation, which were quite interesting. I also assisted the NCGA staff in setting meetings between Midwestern growers and Congressional members who hail from outside the Corn Belt. Nebraska Corn Board Member Dennis Gengenbach was one of the participants in this outreach effort, and had high praise for the meetings. I believe this was an important part of a larger outreach effort that agricultural producers have undertaken, to educate policymakers and consumers about corn production and recent notable successes and advancements.

As Washington heats up in the later summer months, it has certainly been nice to escape onto the water a little bit! In my fleeting free time, I have had the chance to venture out to Harpers Ferry, West Virginia to go tubing on the Shenandoah River. I also had the chance to accompany a few NCGA staff and growers on a kayaking tour of the monuments, on the Potomac River.

Exciting times to be an intern in Washington, D.C.!

By Kyle McGinn, NCGA-DC Intern 

Greetings! My name is Kyle McGinn, and this is my first blog entry. I am a native Nebraskan and a student at the University of Nebraska College of Law. With the gracious support of the Nebraska Corn Board, I have the pleasure of serving as the summer intern in the Washington D.C. office of the National Corn Growers Association. The NCGA D.C. office is a tight-knit team, who supplement the efforts of the NCGA Headquarters Office in St. Louis, Missouri, to protect corn producers.

I have been fortunate to join the office during an exciting period. Both houses of the U.S. Congress are presently working towards the passage of a new Farm Bill. Indeed, the U.S. Senate just passed their version of the Farm Bill earlier this week, and the House should begin consideration of their version shortly. The NCGA staff has worked vigorously, to ensure that the new Farm Bill reflects the best interests of our nation’s 400,000 corn farms, and the 23,000 Nebraska corn producers.

A major component of the work of the NCGA D.C. office is monitoring legislation and hearings which may have an effect on corn production. To this regard, I have had the pleasure of accompanying NCGA staff to several Congressional hearings over the course of the past few weeks, including a hearing of the House of Representatives Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Subcommittee on Energy Policy, Health Care and Entitlements Hearing regarding bio-fuels, and examining the Environmental Protection Agency’s Role in implementing the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), a hearing of the House Natural Resources Committee regarding the implementation of the Endangered Species Act, and a hearing of the House Foreign Affairs Committee regarding international food aid. I also had the distinct pleasure of accompanying the NCGA staff to a luncheon keynoted by the Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack of Iowa. Mr. Vilsack spoke of the importance of responding to climate change, and the resulting pressures on agricultural producers. He introduced new USDA led efforts to combat the negative effects of climate change, including new regional research hubs. Additionally, USDA is working to reduce food waste, which piles up at landfills and emits heat-trapping methane gas. Vilsack also said USDA is focusing on new land conservation efforts and encouraging farmers to make renewable energy and energy efficiency upgrades.

Lastly, I have also been assisting the staff by researching various topics, including Farm Bill Amendments, free trade agreements (including the Trans Pacific Partnership and the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership, and the use of GMOs on National Wildlife Refuges, amongst other issues.

The NCGA D.C. Office is located nearby busy Union Station, which is a transportation hub in Washington. Commuters and travelers alike use Union Station to access the Metro (the local subway), trains, and busses. I myself have used Union Station frequently to navigate the city. Just a few days ago, the NCGA and other partners of the Corn Farmers Coalition began an impressive advertising campaign in Union Station, highlighting the achievements of U.S. corn producers in boosting yield while simultaneously decreasing inputs and promoting sustainable practices. Union Station is one of two Metro stations used most frequently by Congressional members, staff, and other policymakers. Several friends and colleagues have remarked to me on the posters, so they have certainly captured the attention of local travelers and residents. I encourage you to review the pictures of the advertising campaign, which are featured in a June 6, 2013 post on this blog.

On a personal note, I have greatly enjoyed my few short weeks in Washington. Last week, I had the pleasure of attending a Washington Nationals baseball game, versus the local rival the Baltimore Orioles. I have also had the pleasure of bicycling to visit the various monuments, and playing softball on the National Mall. Thanks for reading, and my sincere thanks to the Nebraska Corn Board for your support.

Celebrating the role of agriculture

*Special post by Senator Mike Johanns

Each morning, while the rest of the world is still fast asleep, ag producers across Nebraska are up, checking on their herds or preparing their equipment for a long day in the fields.  Careers in farming or ranching offer few days off.  Cattle still need to be fed on Christmas morning. Crops, ripe for harvest, don’t care about your vacation plans. A break from the fields on a rainy day is an opportunity to get caught up on equipment maintenance. And animals don’t need veterinarians only between 9 and 5.

For 365 days a year, farmers toil with the earth and tend to their livestock to provide food and fiber for the rest of the world, but how often do we consider how the produce gets to the supermarket? One day in particular is devoted to raising this awareness.

March 19 marks the 40th National Ag Day, a time to celebrate the hard work by America’s ag producers to provide safe, abundant and affordable food supplies, and an opportunity to reflect on how the products we depend on every day reach store shelves.

In Nebraska, where nearly 47,000 farms and ranches form a patchwork across the state, we are well versed in the chain of events that must occur before food can reach the table, but in many places across the country, where farmland gives way to pavement, this important work can easily be taken for granted. National Ag Day offers a chance for all Americans to learn about the important role agriculture plays in our country, not just in feeding and fueling the world, but also by providing jobs at home and strengthening relationships abroad.

Agriculture dominates Nebraska’s economy.  The state leads the nation in red meat production at more than 7 billion pounds a year. It also produces more popcorn and Great Northern beans than any other state, and ranks fourth in total land mass used for ag production. That’s a lot of livestock and cropland to maintain. But all that hard work can pay off. Nebraska’s agriculture receipts total more than $21 billion a year—a huge part of the state’s economy. And our state’s $6.9 billion in ag exports generates $9.3 billion in economic activity at home.  A third of all jobs in Nebraska are tied to agriculture, and the state enjoys one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country: 3.8 percent, compared with 7.7 percent nationally.

The benefits of American agriculture go far beyond our borders. We produce more food than we consume and we continue to foster trade opportunities that help feed the world while strengthening our economy. At home, places like the University of Nebraska are researching new ag techniques to help farmers grow more food on less land using fewer resources to continue feeding a growing global population.

Many ag organizations will be descending upon Washington to help tell the story of the important role agriculture plays in our country’s prosperity. It couldn’t come at a better time, as lawmakers continue to craft a new fiscally-responsible, reform-minded farm bill that focuses on needed risk management tools, and better reflects the state of the ag industry. Ag producers work hard year round to provide necessities to our nation. We all benefit from the fruits of their labor.  It’s time Washington returns the favor by passing a responsible five-year farm bill.

A City With a Mind of its Own

Guest post by Lance Atwater from A Growing Passion blog

When I think of our nation's capital, the first thing that pops into my mind is Capitol Hill. I then think of the White House followed by the national monument. For the first time ever, I was able to actually see these things up close instead of just seeing them in pictures or hearing people talk about them. However, there is way more to D.C. than just interesting architecture. Unfortunately, there is also the politics.

A couple of weeks ago I was invited to participate on the Nebraska Corn Growers Association's leadership trip to Washington D.C. where we met with Nebraska's senators and representatives. We also met with different agriculture organizations, such as the Animal Agriculture Alliance and learned about what they do and also some of the issues they deal with on a daily basis. We also met with the National Corn Growers Association and learned about some of the policy issues they are dealing with and what they are doing to represent America's corn farmers on the "hill". Our group also met with the Renewable Fuels Association as well as the U.S. Grains Council, and even went to the Japanese Embassy and met with the First Secretary of Agriculture. I found all of these visits very interesting, and it amazed me at how many issues there are. Yet, I was also impressed at what these organizations are doing for agriculture, such as solving issues and opening up new markets here in the U.S. as well as overseas. After visiting with all the organizations, I felt like agriculture was being represented well, especially America's corn farmers thanks to the National Corn Growers Association.

Yet, even though we have some great people representing a great industry, it doesn't stop the politics of D.C. Unfortunately, some in D.C. (cough cough... Politicians) think they know what is best for America, and sometimes even think they know what is best for certain industries. A couple of the big topics for us was the farm bill and the Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS).

Unfortunately, congress has still failed to pass a farm bill that not only affects farmers and ranchers, but affects ALL of America. The farm bill provides the assurance that food, fuel, fiber, and feed will be produced as well as providing jobs for all sorts of Americans. However, our elected politicians don't seem to understand this and are instead worried about picking fights with the party across the isle. The second issue that is near and dear to agriculture is the Renewable Fuels Standard. Sometimes I don't think people realize how America has benefited from the Renewable Fuels Standard. It has created jobs in rural communities as well as paving the way for clean energy. It has also allowed ranchers and cattle feeders to purchase a different feed source that is the by-product of ethanol production. Unfortunately, some in D.C. don't understand this and want to repeal the RFS. If the RFS is repealed, it could have a major impact on rural America, and not in a good way. Fewer jobs will be created and more people will move away. So it is important that folks in D.C. realize how valuable the RFS is to America, especially rural America! A person told me a great saying that relates well to the RFS "Don't fix something that doesn't need fixed", which I don't think some in D.C. realize.

The Nebraska Corn Growers Association (NeCGA) leadership trip was a great experience and showed me how important it is for people involved in agriculture to get involved with grassroots organizations, such as the NeCGA. It also made me realize that D.C. definitely has a mind of its own at times and can lose touch of what is important, such as getting a farm bill passed and leaving the RFS alone. Yet, while D.C. can have a mind of its own, it is still a neat city and one that is definitely full of history!

A special thanks to the Nebraska Corn Growers Association for inviting me to participate and also to the Nebraska Corn Board and Farm Credit Services for sponsoring the trip!

Read more of Lance’s post here.

NCB Staff Update with Kelly Brunkhorst

In this week's staff update Kelly Brunkhorst talks about why we need a farm bill now! For more information visit the Nebraska Corn Board website or www.farmbillnow.com .

Washington Adventure: The Conclusion

By David Bresel, NCGA-DC Intern

My Washington Adventure is now complete. I am back in Nebraska getting ready for my last year in law school to begin. It was an incredible journey this summer. I’m never going to forget the people I met and had the honor to work with.

Before I left Washington, I had a chance to work on a few more projects. One of those projects was the inclusion of Russia into the World Trade Organization. The repeal of the Jackson-Vanik amendment is currently going through the legislative process. If repealed it will allow fair and consistent trade policies between the US and Russia.

Another project I had a chance to work on was the California Labeling initiative. The California Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) labeling initiative has been assigned a ballot number for the November election. Proposition 37 continues to move one step closer to being voted on. This ballot proposition was created by activists who oppose modern farming techniques and a prominent trial lawyer who has made a fortune suing businesses under the bounty-hunter provision in California Proposition 65. The proposition would force family farmers, food producers and grocers to implement record keeping and labeling mandates that no other state or country requires. They’d be forced to keep special records for all food products they sell tens of thousands of products so they can prove whether or not their products contain GE ingredients in the event they are ever sued under the propositions “bounty hunter” lawsuit provision.

A coalition of organizations has created a grassroots campaign in an effort to educate and stop Proposition 37 from passing. The ultimate goal of the campaign is to educate the public on the benefits and advantages of GMO and to stop any further State regulations from making it onto the voting ballot. If the coalition and campaign is able to stop Proposition 37 in California it will most likely discourage other States from taking up the issue in the future.

Along with the projects that I had a chance to work on, I also was able to do some last minute sightseeing. One of my favorite things was seeing the Library of Congress. I am a big fan of history and reading so seeing all of the first edition books and historical documents that are featured in the library was awe inspiring. It is easy to look over museums in D.C. because there are just so many. But this is one museum that deserves every bit of good attention that it gets. It's truly a marvel of a place.

My time at the National Corn Growers Association has been an invaluable experience for me. I hope to use the opportunity that I’ve been given this summer to search for an agricultural career after I graduate from law school. My goal is to move back to Washington someday and help the agriculture community that has given me so much. I want to thank everyone who has helped me throughout this summer. Thank you to all of the lobbyist in the D.C. office, the staff in the St. Louis office, the U.S. Grains Council, and to the Nebraska Corn Board for all of your support.

The National Corn Growers Association office in Washington, D.C. is hosting David Bresel of Lincoln, Neb., as their summer intern supported by a partnership between Nebraska Corn Board and NCGA. David is a student in at the University of Nebraska College of Law. He will be involved with a variety of issues related to environmental regulations, transportation, free trade agreements, biotechnology, ethanol and energy.

Washington Adventure - Part 2

By David Bresel, NCGA-DC Intern
I have been in Washington D.C. for approximately six and a half weeks and I am still loving it out here.  The important policy decisions that I’ve had a chance to work on and the people I’ve had the opportunity to meet have made this an amazing experience that I’ll not soon forget.  One of the major policy issues that the office and I have been working on is the Farm Bill. 

The Farm Bill was successfully passed in the Senate.  Now we are working our hardest to get the Farm Bill through the House of Representatives.  It is easy to tell that the House Farm Bill is not the most ideal version that NCGA would have preferred.  But having a farm bill pass before the 2008 farm bill expires is important to every agriculture organization.  So, for the last week everyone in the office has been hard at work motivating our Representatives to do something to pass this vital piece of legislation.  My duties have ranged from interpreting the bill language and amendments to going on Capitol Hill visits with the lobbyists. 

Another office project that I have been working on is getting ready for Corn Congress.  Working with the lobbyists I have been helping them get their presentations and agendas ready for the event.  I’ve even had a chance to write a few memos that were used during Corn Congress.  Sitting in on meetings at the event has really given me a greater appreciations for the members of NCGA. 

I was also lucky enough to go to Crab Fest at Chip Bowling’s farm. Chip is a corn grower in Newburg, Md.,  and serves as a member of the National Corn Board.  It was the first time that I’ve ever eaten crab like that.  I also had a chance to go on a boat ride in the Chesapeake.  It was overall a great day and a fantastic experience and I’d like to publicly thank Chip for hosting that event. 

One more noteworthy event that I had the opportunity to witness was seeing the Supreme Court hand down the decision on the health care reform act.  Jon Doggett and Natalie Cook told me to go to the Supreme Court to see the events that were taking place outside as it was going to be a historic day.  So I went to the court and I somehow found my way inside the building.  Then I was able to get into the chamber of the Supreme Court where I sat next to Michelle Bachman and saw the nine justices on the bench and listened to Justice Roberts read the majority opinion in the decision.  No matter what my opinion is on the decision given by the Court it was still an incredibly humbling experience to be sitting there watching and listening to the justices.  It is an experience that I will remember for as long as I live. 

I am so happy to be working at NCGA.  It has reaffirmed my belief that working in the agriculture industry is what I want to do for my lifelong career.    I can honestly say that being here at NCGA and working with the Nebraska CornBoard has been one of the best experiences of my life.  

The National Corn Growers Association office in Washington, D.C. is hosting David Bresel of Lincoln, Neb., as their summer intern supported by a partnership between Nebraska Corn Board and NCGA. David is a student in at the University of Nebraska College of Law. He will be involved with a variety of issues related to environmental regulations, transportation, free trade agreements, biotechnology, ethanol and energy.

Washington Adventure

By David Bresel, NCGA-DC Intern

Moving to Washington D.C. for the summer was a dream come true. I have always wanted to spend time in our nation’s capital and was so glad to have the opportunity to do so. Through some friends of friends I was very lucky and found a place to live near Dupont Circle within the city. The neighborhood I live in is great with lots of young professionals and many places to see and visit. It is relatively close to work being right near a Metro train stop. I just hop onto the train everyday and it’s fast, easy and convenient.

My first day at work was great. I didn’t start until the afternoon which allowed me the chance to walk around the neighborhood where the National Corn Growers Association offices are. I gladly discovered what is now one of my favorite things about this city so far, FOOD TRUCKS! Food trucks are a wonderful idea where local restaurants and startup eateries serve a different assortment of goods from their trucks. There is anything from lasagna trucks to cheesecake trucks. It is wonderful to try different foods all the time with the convenience of being located right across the street from the NCGA office location.

I’ve always believed the thing that makes a job great is the people you work with. The people at NCGA are incredible. I have really enjoyed these past two weeks getting to know them, shadowing them, and working with them. My duties have been mixed with administrative type work and legislative policy work. This is great because it has given me the opportunity to really see and get to know all aspects of the NCGA office.

One of the biggest things that the office and I have been working on is the Farm Bill that is being debated in the Senate currently. NCGA and everyone in the agriculture community in D.C. is working hard to try and get the Farm Bill passed. Working to see the bill move through the Senate and then onto the House I’m certain will be an incredibly rewarding experience. It’s been a great opportunity to see how lobbying and politics work on a federal level.

Every day that I come into the office I have been extremely excited. It’s a wonderful feeling to go to work looking forward to what the day has in store. I am eager for the next coming weeks with all of the challenges and rewards that are in store for me and the staff at NCGA. Working here at NCGA has opened an entire new world of career opportunities and desires for my future. I’m very happy to say that things in Washington D.C. are great.

The National Corn Growers Association office in Washington, D.C. is hosting David Bresel of Lincoln, Neb., as their summer intern supported by a partnership between Nebraska Corn Board and NCGA. David is a student in at the University of Nebraska College of Law. He will be involved with a variety of issues related to environmental regulations, transportation, free trade agreements, biotechnology, ethanol and energy.

My Capital Commencement

By James Keating, U.S. Grains Council Intern

Adapting to a fresh environment far from home takes a certain kind of fortitude. Yesterday was my first day interning at the U.S. Grains Council and only my second day in the District of Columbia.  Although I am just removed from four months abroad in Latin America, D.C. is a different kind of beast; it is extremely easy to be intimidated by the complexity of the situation. For example, the metro is the only legitimate means of transportation for anyone non-local into the city, and the outlandish cost of living forces subtle poor students like me to the margins of the metropolitan area, thus making for a long commute. Not to mention, when all is said and done I will be 7 months removed from home.

Despite any intimidation or lack of comfort, I am well on my way to the independence I desire and I am definitely experiencing a honeymoon period with our nation’s capital. I have been spending any of my free time mastering the metro and exploring my neighborhood of Fairfax, I have yet to see any nationally recognizable monuments even though I can literally see the Capitol from my office. There will be plenty of time for exploration, but for now it is essential I get settled into my living and working situations. George Mason University (which is across from my townhouse) is satisfying enough for my exploration needs, at least for my first week.

As for the Grains Council, I have to admit my honeymoon period has a lot to do with the people in my office. Although I have only been here one day, the people have been unbelievably great to me and I earnestly believe in their open door gestures. While the office has many different personalities, they have all made me feel at home already and I am comfortable working with any of them formally, informally, and socially although it has only been one day.

As for my duties, I have just only begun to learn the ropes, thus I have only mastered small office duties like the copy machine and processing invoices, but soon I will be doing all sorts of things I could only of imagined about. As a international studies minor I am ecstatic about one opportunity in particular, in August I will be coordinating (in large part, by myself) a trade team from Japan which will include not only hosting them but educating them on grain production in the United States which will include various tours and meetings. Various other responsibilities will be assigned to me as worker confidence grows, but I earnestly just want to make everyone’s job here easier whether directly or indirectly.

Even though it has only been a short time, I already have subtle experiences I struggle to put into words, like Robert Brault said “Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.”

The U.S. Grains Council is hosting James Keating of Ogallala, Neb., as their first summer intern supported by a partnership between the Nebraska Corn Board and USGC. David is a senior in political science at the University of Nebraska – Kearney. He will be working with policy, assisting with international trade teams and helping to develop promotions and international relations.

Wild Hogs vs. Deer – Similar Issues Throughout U.S.

By Shannon Wietjes, Nebraska Corn Growers Association Intern

Water. Farm Bill. Animal rights. Environment. What do all of these have in common? Well, they are all issues that we face here in Nebraska every day. However, we aren’t alone in dealing with these issues. Recently, I had the opportunity to travel to Washington D.C. for National Ag Day Training through the 4-H program. Along with over 100 other college students representing youth organizations, such as Agriculture Future of America, FFA, 4-H and other organizations, I was able to express my concerns about these issues and many more to the decision makers in D.C.

Although some of our issues differed by the area of the country we came from (we have issues with overpopulation of deer in Nebraska…in the south they are overrun with wild hogs) major themes continued to pop up throughout our conversations. Corn producers want the Farm Bill to be passed just as much as the cotton producers. Water is a precious and necessary resource each person needs no matter what part of the country they live in. Protecting the environment is just as important for farmers in California as it is for us here in Nebraska. Issues within agriculture may differ slightly as you travel across the country, but we all face issues that need addressed.

This is something we need to remember – we are not alone. Sometimes in agriculture, we get wrapped up in our farms, in the issues that affect us at the local or state level and we think we are alone in the fight. However, people all over the nation are facing the same issues and are interested in helping agriculture improve as well. Each person’s voice and opinion is important, but if agriculture joins together and works to improve the industry as a whole, we will all benefit. So, even though we don’t have wild hogs running rampant here in Nebraska (I kind of wish we did, I love pigs!) we do have similar issues that can be changed if we work together. Less than 2% of the population of the U.S. produces the food for everyone else; we need to stick together to continue to feed the world!