Iowa Corn News Feed

Iowa Corn Grower Issues Pass At Commodity Classic

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Farmer delegates for the Iowa Corn Growers Association participated in the first day of Corn Congress at Commodity Classic, where thousands of the country’s top corn, soybean, wheat and sorghum producers and representatives from leading agribusinesses gather this week.

“Commodity Classic is where issues from your farm are discussed on the national level,” said Don Elsbernd, current President of the Iowa Corn Growers Association and a corn grower from Allamakee county. “During the summer months we meet and discuss policy on the local level. From there, those top issues are discussed at the August annual meeting and policy conference and then those same issues are taken to the National Corn Growers Association policy meetings at Commodity Classic. Once they are adopted by all 26 corn growing states, then they become policy direction for our work in Washington D.C.”

Yesterday during debate, six resolutions from Iowa were discussed and passed by the delegate body including policy regarding; greenhouse gas emissions, indirect land use, climate change, atrazine and carbofuran, food safety, and advanced biofuels.

“Climate change and indirect land use are hot topics in Washington D.C.,” said Elsbernd. “These issues have the potential to seriously impact that way we farm in Iowa and throughout the Midwest. That is why we wanted to be sure that positive policy direction was in place as we work with legislators at our nation’s Capitol.”

Iowa Corn Promotion Board and New Jersey Institute of Technology to License Breakthrough Safe Bio-Plastic Alternative

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Iowa Corn Promotion Board announces the first patent in a series filed jointly with the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT). The patent is for a new chemical derivative of corn- based isosorbide and may be able to replace bisphenol A (BPA) in a number of consumer products.

“Some chemicals used to make epoxy are raising concerns about their potential health effects,” said John Scott a farmer from West Central Iowa and the chairman of the Iowa Corn Research and Business Development Committee. “That’s why we think making epoxy from corn can be a win-win-win for public health, for plastic manufacturers, and for farmers.”

Bisphenol A, used in the epoxy coating on the inside of tin cans and plastics ranging from baby bottles to nail polish has been questioned for safety and longevity. Recent studies show that BPA may be slowly released over time into our food or water. This patent addresses a renewable epoxy, derived from a corn derived material that is water-soluble and renewable.

“Corn based chemicals are attractive because they are safe renewable resources and can be made readily at competitive pricing.” Said Michael Jaffe, a professor of biomedical engineering at NJIT. “Corn based isosorbide is the key ingredient in this patent that offers functionality that will work with many existing procedures.”

For more information about isosorbide and licensing opportunities, please visit www.iowacorn.org or contact Williamson at rwilliamson@iowacorn.org, 515-225-9242.

###

Iowa Corn Promotion Board (ICPB) works to increase education, fund research, and improve marketability for corn and products made from corn. The Research and Business Development Department seeks partners to implement new technology, analyze grower investment/market opportunities, and promote commercialized products.

NJIT, New Jersey's science and technology university, at the edge in knowledge, enrolls more than 8,000 students in bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees in 92 degree programs offered by six colleges: Newark College of Engineering, New Jersey School of Architecture, College of Science and Liberal Arts, School of Management, Albert Dorman Honors College and College of Computing Sciences. NJIT is renowned for expertise in architecture, applied mathematics, wireless communications and networking, solar physics, advanced engineered particulate materials, nanotechnology, neural engineering and e-learning. In 2006, Princeton Review named NJIT among the nation’s top 25 campuses for technology and top 150 for best value. U.S. News & World Report’s 2007 Annual Guide to America’s Best Colleges ranked NJIT in the top tier of national research universities.

Be A Hero In Your Community

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

America’s Farmers Grow Communities Project^SM

Helps Iowa Communities During Tough Economy

Time is running out to participate in the America’s Farmers Grow Communities project, which is designed to help farmers support their local non-profit youth agriculture and civic groups with a $2,500 award or the just announced $5,000 Double Donation award. The county in Iowa with the highest percentage of farmer participation will also be awarded a bonus $2,500 for a total of $5,000 going to the farmer-chosen non-profit organization(s) in the winning county. February 28th is the last day farmers in all 99 Iowa counties can enroll for a chance to win a community organization donation. For more program information and to enroll, visit www.growcommunities.com. Winners will be announced in March.

“Although only farmers can submit an award application, we’re also encouraging eligible community organizations to approach farmers they know to ask to be entered,” said John Raines, Vice President of Customer Advocacy. “From looking at the entries coming in, we are impressed by the diversity of very worthwhile community groups that are important to Iowa farmers.”

Ag youth organizations, such as 4-H and FFA, account for many of farmer entries received to date. Other community groups also receiving a high number of entries include schools, libraries, fire departments and emergency medical services, economic development groups, hospitals and community centers.

To participate, Iowa farmers must be age 21 and over and be actively engaged in farming a minimum of 250 acres of corn or soybeans. The application period runs through Feb. 28, 2010. The program is open to all qualifying farmers, and there is no purchase requirement.

The America’s Farmers Grow Communities Project^SM enables farmers in all of Iowa and parts of Missouri and Arkansas to enter a local non-profit agricultural organization or other non-profit community group to win a donation. Monsanto Company, the program sponsor, will award one $2,500 donation in each Iowa county plus a bonus $2,500 to the one county in each of the three pilot program states (Iowa, Missouri and Arkansas) with the largest percentage of farmers enrolled in the project.

Farmers can apply online or request a copy of the official rules of the award program at www.growcommunities.com, by calling 1.877.267.3332 or by sending a self-addressed, stamped envelope to America’s Farmers Grow Communities Project, 914 Spruce St., St. Louis, Mo. 63102.

Sweetener is Safe for your Sweetheart This Valentine’s Day

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

High fructose corn syrup misinformation is being peddled at the grocery store and in the news. As you consider sweets for your sweetheart this holiday, the Iowa Corn Promotion Board would like to reiterate that High Fructose Corn Syrup is a natural and safe sweetener for this Valentine’s Day and throughout the year.

“Both medical and nutrition groups along with a few of the loudest food industry critics believe that high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), a natural sweetener made from corn, is exactly the same nutritionally as sugar,” said Tim Burrack, a corn farmer from Northeast Iowa, and chairman of the Iowa Corn Promotion Board.

For more information, click here.

Over 50 Ag Groups Call on EPA to Continue to Use Science, Not Politics in Atrazine Review

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Agricultural groups from Iowa and across the nation signed onto a letter to EPA clarifying growers’ support for atrazine. The letter was sent to EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson today. Earlier this month, environmental activist groups submitted a letter to EPA saying growers oppose the use of atrazine.

“It is truly disheartening when political agendas attempt to overturn scientific process,” the letter states. “Such is the case in the January 5th letter submitted to the EPA by a handful of special interest groups misrepresenting themselves as the voice of the agriculture community in an attempt to negate the overwhelming support and confidence in the herbicide atrazine and to gain media attention for themselves.”

Jere White, executive director of the Kansas corn and grain sorghum growers associations said farmers have been involved in EPA’s reviews of atrazine since the mid-1990s. The groups that signed the letter in support of atrazine represent a very large number of farmers and agricultural producers.

Over 50 national, state, and local grower and agricultural groups signed on to this letter which reaffirms their support of the use of atrazine. These groups represent hundreds of thousands of farmers from Hawaii to Pennsylvania. The groups signing the letter asked EPA to understand that the majority of farmers support the use of atrazine and asked EPA to use science, not politics, to arrive at a decision on the safety of atrazine.

The letter states: “Our growers have actively participated in the process and supported the safety and scientific approval of atrazine by the EPA over the last fifteen years and three White House Administrations. Mainstream agriculture has participated in every Scientific Advisory Panel (SAP) concerning atrazine since the beginning of the Special Review in 1994. As stated clearly to the November 3, 2009 SAP, we strongly believe the scientific weight of evidence, based on EPA's own analysis for decades, shows atrazine to be both safe and effective and that it is the best kind of tool that farmers can have.

We are troubled by the activist forces that seem to be guiding the very intensive and urgent re-evaluation (actually a re-re-evaluation) of atrazine despite its recently completed re-registration, which provided for its continued safe use.

. . . The benefits of atrazine use to agriculture are well documented and part of existing EPA record. Recent efforts to downplay these benefits in the media are simply the wishes of activists who suggest they have better insight on producing abundant food, fuel and fiber from their comfortable desk than the farmer who has been doing it all his life. It should be noted that our farmers consider themselves the ultimate conservationists, for without the careful cultivation of their land...their own livelihoods are at risk.”

Iowa’s Farmers Offer “Free Groceries for a Year!”

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Whoever said there’s no such thing as a free lunch has never met Iowa’s farmers! In fact, they will be offering all Iowa residents the chance to win free groceries for breakfast, lunch, and dinner – for an entire year!

Beginning today, Iowa residents can register for two grand prizes of “Free Groceries for a Year!”* courtesy of Iowa’s farmers, at www.FarmersFeedUS.org. Upon visiting the site, consumers will be able to register by meeting an Iowa farmer and learning how they produce safe, nutritious and affordable food. Consumers can register with each of the five featured farmers daily through April 11, the end of the 90-day program.

“As Iowa farmers, we’re thrilled to offer free groceries for a year to the consumers of our great state,” said Jim Brown, a soybean farmer from Churdan, Iowa, who is a featured farmer on FarmersFeedUS.org. “This is an opportunity for us to share what we produce with Iowa consumers and to let them know we share their values - taking care of our families, taking care of our animals and land and giving back to our communities.”

The web site features beef cattle, corn, dairy cattle, hog, and soybean farmers from across the state, each sharing information about their farm and their family. In addition to guiding visitors through their registration for free groceries, each farmer also offers a brief online tour of their farm. “I’m proud about how farmers in the state of Iowa produce food,” Brown said, “and I want to show people how today’s farms operate.” Featured farmers include:

· Jim Brown, soybean farmer, Churdan

· Pam Johnson, corn farmer, Floyd

· Stephanie Dykshorn, dairy cattle farmer, Ireton

· Matt Schuiteman, hog farmer, Sioux Center

· Tim Kaldenberg, beef cattle farmer, Albia

Over the course of the 90-day campaign, consumers throughout the state will also see and hear from these farmers as they are featured in advertising and in-store promotions. Consumers will even have the opportunity to interact with these and other Iowa farmers on their blogs and Facebook pages. See www.facebook.com/iafarmersfeedus and www.twitter.com/iafarmersfeedus for more information.

Supporting Iowa agriculture groups include Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, the Iowa Corn Growers Association, and the Iowa Pork Producers Association.

*Based on Food Marketing Institute figures, a $5,000 value.

Corn Production Nationwide Smashes Previous Production Records - Never Underestimate the Capacity of the Corn Grower to Produce

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

JOHNSTON, Iowa – January 12, 2010 – U.S. corn production records shattered as we see that seed technology, and efficiency continue to improve the way corn growers do their job.

Just this morning, the USDA announced that U.S. farmers pulled off the largest corn and soybean crops on record, according to the Crop Production 2009 Summary released today by National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS).

Corn production is a staggering 13.2 billion bushels, nearly 10 percent higher than the 2008 crop year. Most impressive is even with nationwide weather challenges from hail, to rain, to snow, corn yields reached an all-time high in 2009 at 165.2 bushels per acre, well above the 160.3 bushels per acre set in 2004.

“With those production numbers, nationwide corn production would be equal to three-fourths of a trillion pounds,” said Tim Burrack, a farmer from NE Iowa and chairman of the Iowa Corn Promotion Board. “With the U.S population at 304 million, that’s enough corn for every person in the U.S. to consume 2,431 pounds of corn; plenty for all food, feed, fuel, and fiber needs. This once again demonstrates that the food versus fuel argument is complete false.”

In Iowa, where corn is a champion in the fields, corn production numbers are up from 12.8 in 2008 to 13.4 in 2009. But, not all the corn is on the barge, in the bin, or on the rail cars. In parts of Iowa, corn remains standing in the snow waiting for a combine.

“The staggering numbers released today are a true reflection of the value of new traits and hybrids available to farmers.” said Burrack, who experienced one of the latest harvest seasons in his 37 years of farming. “Never underestimate the capacity of the corn grower to produce under even the most challenging weather conditions.”

###

The Iowa Corn Promotion Board (ICPB), works to develop and defend markets, fund research, and provide education about corn and corn products. The Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) is a membership organization lobbying on agricultural issues on behalf of its 6,000 farmer members. Both organizations work on the joint mission to created opportunities for long-term Iowa corn grower profitability.

Achieving a More Proftiable Operation: Iowa Corn Growers Announce 2010 Crop Fair Schedule

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) and Iowa Corn Promotion Board (ICPB) will again join with local sponsoring groups to host 14 free crop fairs across Iowa this winter.

“Our crop fairs are an established tradition for many growers,” said Don Mason, ICGA/ICPB director of grower services. “They make top experts available at local gatherings where farmers can ask questions and tap into the latest information on issues that affect their profitability.”

Mason especially thanked local sponsoring groups and businesses for making the crop fair program possible: “We would not have been able to offer up-to-date information to thousands of farmers without the support of our sponsors. “

Dates and locations for this year’s crop fair schedule include:

Jan. 5 in Shenandoah
Jan. 5 and 6. in Cedar Rapids
Jan. 7 in Guthrie Center
Jan. 8 in Burlington
Jan. 18 in Marshalltown
Jan. 22 in Bassett
Jan. 27 in Missouri Valley
Jan. 28 in Promise City
Feb. 2 in Fayette
Feb. 3 in Paullina
Feb. 17 in Elkader
Feb. 18 in Fort Dodge
Feb. 22 in Wall Lake
Mar. 2 in Orient
Mar. 3 in Fairfield

For full program details on individual crop fairs, go to www.iowacorn.org or call 515-225-9242.

# # #

The ICPB directs the investment of Iowa corn checkoff funds to develop and defend markets, fund research, and provide education about corn and corn products. The ICGA is a membership organization, lobbying on agricultural issues on behalf of its 6,000 members

Webster City Women Drives Home a Winner

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

JOHNSTON, Iowa – December 15, 2009 – Judy Koons was the big winner at the Iowa vs. Iowa State Men’s basketball game, on Friday, December 11 in Ames, when her name was drawn as the winner of a victory red, 2009 Flex-Fuel Chevy Silverado.

The drawing, conducted at halftime of the basketball game was the wrap up of the Iowa Corn Fed GameDay DriveAway campaign, an Iowa Corn program showcasing the many ways corn benefits Iowa and Iowans.

The Iowa Corn Fed GameDay DriveAway was part of a GameDay partnership that included the Iowa and Iowa State football, basketball, and wrestling seasons. Consumers could enter the drawing from July 10 through November 21 for a chance to win the 2009 Flex-Fuel Chevy Silverado or 2 prizes of ethanol for a year.

Dave Larsen of Ames and Charles Ricketts of Ames also were also randomly selected to receive ethanol for a year from Kum and Go. They were presented with gift certificates at the Iowa vs. Iowa State Wrestling Meet, on Sunday, December 6 and the Iowa vs. Iowa State Women’s Basketball game, on Thursday, December 10, respectively.

“We’ve reached thousands of people with the Iowa Corn Fed GameDay DriveAway promotion,” said Shannon Textor, director of market development for the Iowa Corn Promotion Board (ICPB) and the Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA). “Ethanol use was just one benefit featured in the program, which included food and feed uses for corn and messages about corn’s importance to Iowa’s economy, environment and energy independence.”

Textor thanked Iowa’s Premier Chevy Dealers, Cyclone Sports Properties, Hawkeye Sports Properties and Kum and Go for joining with the Iowa Corn Growers Association and the Iowa Corn Promotion Board to sponsor the Iowa Corn Fed GameDay DriveAway sweepstakes.

The Iowa Corn Fed GameDay campaign is part of a larger 4 year signed partnership with both Hawkeye Sports Properties and Cyclone Sports Properties. The promotion includes radio, television, internet, and on-site marketing. The campaign highlights the many uses for corn and its importance to Iowa- as everyday is GameDay for Iowa’s farmers.

For more information, visit www.iacornfed.com.

###

The Iowa Corn Promotion Board (ICPB), works to develop and defend markets, fund research, and provide education about corn and corn products. The Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) is a membership organization lobbying on agricultural issues on behalf of its 6,000 members. Both organizations work on the joint mission to created opportunities for long-term Iowa corn grower profitability.

Farm Energy Checkup Program Meetings This Winter

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

JOHNSTON,Iowa – December 11- The Iowa Corn Growers Association has joined forces thiswinter with the Iowa Farm Bureau, the Iowa Pork Producers Association, andConsumers Energy to roll out a Farm Energy Checkup Program for Iowa farmers.

Click here for more...

Iowa Corn Indy 250, presented by Pioneer Returns to the Iowa Speedway

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Mindy Williamson, Iowa Corn Director of Communications and PR, 515-225-9242
Julie Kenney, Communications Manager, Pioneer Hi-Bred, 515-664-7520

JOHNSTON, Iowa – DATE – The Iowa Corn Growers Association, the Iowa Corn Promotion Board and Pioneer are proud to announce that they have renewed their sponsorship for the Iowa Corn Indy 250, presented by Pioneer. The 4^th Annual race will be held on Sunday, June 20^th at the Iowa Speedway in Newton. This race marks the 4^th trip to Iowa for the Indy Car Series and the 4^th time the cars have driven nearly 200 miles per hour on 100 percent fuel grade corn ethanol.

“Powering Indy Cars at top speeds is the ultimate in ethanol performance,” said Tim Burrack, a farmer from NE Iowa and Chairman of the Iowa Corn Promotion Board. “Iowa Corn is at the track again this year because the cars are not only running on corn ethanol, but thousands of Iowans hear and see our messages about the power, performance, reliability, and energy independence from homegrown corn ethanol.”

In 2006, the Indy Car Series realized reduced fuel consumption on the same horsepower using corn ethanol. Specifically, the Series saw smaller engines and a savings of more than 20,000 gallons of fuel in the first year alone. This along with the increased economic activity for Iowa is what brought sponsors like Iowa Corn and Pioneer back to the Iowa Corn Indy 250.

"The Iowa Corn Indy 250 has become a great event for the state and we are proud to sponsor it,” said Judd O’Connor, Pioneer business director for Iowa and Missouri. “Just as science and innovation are constantly improving the performance of the cars on the track, they are helping develop the alternative, sustainable fuels that the world is demanding and Iowa agriculture can deliver.”

Previous Iowa Corn Indy 250 presented by Pioneer races have set record attendance at the Iowa Speedway with over 40,000 fans packing the stands. Stan Clement, Iowa Speedway Chief Executive Officer, saluted Iowa farmers for introducing corn-based ethanol to the motor sports industry, as well as Iowa Corn and Pioneer for their continued sponsorship of the Iowa Corn Indy 250, “The Iowa Corn Grower’s Association and the Indy Racing League have been a tremendous fit for Iowa Speedway and we are honored to have them continue with us. The Iowa Corn Indy 250 presented by Pioneer is a world-class event and racing fans look forward to the race each year.”

The Iowa Corn Promotion Board (ICPB), works to develop and defend markets, fund research, and provide education about corn and corn products. The Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) is a membership organization lobbying on agricultural issues on behalf of its 6,400 farmer members. Both organizations work on the joint mission to create opportunities for long-term Iowa corn grower profitability.

Pioneer Hi-Bred, a DuPont business, is the world’s leading source of customized solutions for farmers, livestock producers and grain and oilseed processors. With headquarters in Des Moines, Iowa, Pioneer provides access to advanced plant genetics in nearly 70 countries.

###

For more information about the Iowa Corn Indy 250 presented by Pioneer, visit www.iowacorn.org

Harvest Weight Limit for Corn Growers, Extended Today

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Harvest Weight Limit for Corn Growers, Extended Today

JOHNSTON, Iowa – November 25, 2009 – As combines continue the 2009 harvest, Governor Chet Culver has granted a 30 day extension to the original harvest weight limit proclamation for grain hauling on Iowa roads. The proclamation specifically increases the weight allowable for hauling of corn, soybeans, hay, straw and stover by 10% per axle without the need for an oversize/overweight permit.

The original harvest weight limit proclamation was set to expire on November 29, 2009. Because of the difficult harvest this year, the Iowa Corn Growers Association requested a 30 day extension, to Governor Chet Culver. With the extension, the harvest weight limit proclamation will now expire on December 29, 2009.

The Governor’s proclamation applies to grain transported on all highways within Iowa, excluding the interstate system. Farmers may exceed the usual weights for their implements by 10% per axle but this does not apply to posted limits on all roads and bridges, nor does it apply to grain carts.

“We are proud to have the extension of the weight limit proclamation until December 29, 2009. We understand that the harvest weight proclamation is not a right by law, but a petition to the Governor.” Said Don Elsbernd, ICGA President and a corn grower from NE Iowa. “ICGA requested the extension and provided the Governor with information regarding the difficult harvest weather and harvest information. We sincerely thank the Governor for his action.”

The proclamation directs the Iowa Department of Transportation to monitor the operation of the proclamation, assure the public’s safety and facilitate the movement of the trucks involved. Farmers who are transporting grain are also required to follow their vehicle safety standards on axle weights.

The proclamation will be extended for 30 days, ending on December 29, 2009

Farmers Give Us Much to be Thankful For

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

By Bill Northey, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture

Iowans have much to be thankful for again this year. For many it has been a difficult year, but we are still extremely fortunate to live in country with so many freedoms and such great abundance.

Our great abundance is one reason I am urging Iowans to remember the farmers that put the food on our table this holiday season.

Iowa farmers help drive our state’s economy, protect Iowa’s precious natural resources and feed a fast growing world.

The impact of agriculture on our state’s economy is undeniable.

In fact, one analysis of the 2007 Census of Agriculture by the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers with the help of an Iowa State University extension economist showed that agriculture and ag-related industries directly and indirectly employ one of every six Iowans, or 17 percent of the state’s workforce. It also showed that agriculture is responsible for adding $72.1 billion to the state’s economy, or 27 percent of the state’s total.

And, while farmers know their job is to produce food to feed the world, they understand that protecting the state’s soil and water goes hand in hand with growing crops. If our state’s high quality top soil erodes or our state’s waterways are polluted, next year’s crop is put in jeopardy.

So, farmers take conservation seriously. As a result, Iowa leads the nation with 524,667 acres enrolled in the continuous Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). In addition, through the state cost share program more than $400 million have been invested, including $200 million by farmers, to install terraces, grass waterways, buffer strips and other conservation practice that help protect our state’s soil and water.

Farmers are able to do all this, and still provide safe, high quality, AND affordable food to America and the world.

For example, the American Farm Bureau recently completed their annual “Thanksgiving Dinner Price Survey” and found that families can expect to pay 4 percent less for their Thanksgiving dinner this year than last year.

The price fell even though Americans already enjoy some of the least expensive food on the plant. The USDA found that the average consumer in the U.S. spent only 9.8 percent of their disposable income on food, and that percentage has been falling. For example, Americans spent 13.9 percent of food in 1970.

When you look at what other countries spend on food, this is even more impressive. For example, consumers in the United Kingdom spend 22 percent of their income on food, and in Japan it is 26 percent.

When you look at the big picture, even in the mist of such a difficult economic climate, we all do have many reasons to be thankful. I encourage you take a moment this holiday season to consider the farmers that help make our holiday meals possible.

Bill Northey is serving his first term as Secretary of Agriculture. Northey is a fourth-generation corn and soybean farmer from Spirit Lake, Iowa. His priorities as Secretary of Agriculture are expanding opportunities in renewable energy, encouraging conservation and stewardship, and telling the story of Iowa agriculture. To learn more visit www.IowaAgriculture.gov.

Corn Growers in Iowa Assess the Crop Conditions for a Slow, Wet Harvest

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Farmer leaders on the Iowa Corn Promotion Board and the Iowa Corn Growers Association Board gathered this morning via conference call to talk about harvest conditions including wet weather, slow harvest, and grain quality.

The USDA crop report on Monday showed only about 18% of Iowa’s corn crop harvested, which puts Iowa about a month behind. A hard frost also hit the state in early October and then the record setting month of rain put corn harvest at a crawl. Corn farmers across the state voiced optimism about the upcoming weather and their ability to make up time on the harvest.

“Corn growers have a different set of weather conditions to deal with each season,” said Gary Woodley, a farmer from Clarion and the chair of the Exports and Grain Trade committee. “Each year brings challenges, but I have never met a corn grower who wasn’t up to the challenge to bring in the crop. But, as the top corn state, we wanted to talk with growers across the state today to assess the harvest and continue to provide a safe, quality, and abundant corn crop for our livestock, export, and ethanol markets.”

As of Sunday, the corn crop condition in Iowa was rated at 82% good to excellent and yields look like they may come near the 186 per bushel record yield forecast set by the USDA.

Dr. Charles Hurburgh, Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at ISU joined the conference call with farmer leaders this morning to give advice on how to handle high moisture corn and mold problems. “Corn coming out of the field with visible mold should be segregated and samples should be saved for testing. Right now, we are seeing some mold, more in hail damaged areas. So far only the hail damaged areas have shown toxin levels high enough to affect swine and poultry, but not feed lot cattle. We will continue to monitor the crop as harvest rolls on. Check our website www.iowagrain.org or the Iowa State ICM Newsletter for new developments.”

“Corn growers watch the crop through planting and harvest like you might watch over your children,” said Woodley. “We will continue to monitor the corn crop from the field, to the bin, to the ethanol plant, and even to rail or river for our overseas markets. Growing corn is what we do whether it rains or shines- this season has just brought a little more rain that we wanted.”

Many growers on the call have hand checked fields to survey corn ready to harvest. If you have questions regarding your crop, you can visit www.iowacorn.org and click on 2009 Harvest.

Corn Farmers Demonstrate Sustainable Agriculture in New Video

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A new National Corn Growers Association video on the subject of increasing sustainability in agriculture will make its debut Oct. 3, on the television program This Week in Agribusiness. The short video features family farmers telling the story of how better management and modern technology spells good news for both consumers and the environment.

“The only thing as important as growing a crop and getting a fair price is doing so in a way that is socially responsible and assures opportunities for the next generation of farmers and consumers,” said Darrin Ihnen, NCGA president and a corn grower in Hurley, S.D.

Every day on planet Earth we grow by over 200,000 people. That is 150 new people every minute. In the next 40 years our global population will exceed 9 billion people, up from 6.7 billion people today. Luckily, family farmers are making rapid progress toward meeting the needs of a growing world and doing it with the environment in mind.

“Sustainability isn’t some buzz word or novelty for a corn grower. We are living this every day and trying to do a better job with each crop we grow,” Ihnen said.

This Week in Agribusiness will air the video on Direct TV Channel 345 (RFD-TV) and Dish Network Channel 231 (RFD-TV) at 7 a.m. CDT Saturday, Oct. 3; 5 a.m. and 8 p.m. CDT Sunday, Oct. 4; and 8 a.m. CDT Monday, Oct. 5. It also airs on 20 TV stations in the Midwest and Great Plains regions. For details, see http://www.agbizweek.com.

You can also view the video online at: http://ncga.com/sustainability.

Founded in 1957, the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) represents approximately 36,000 dues-paying corn growers and the interests of more than 300,000 farmers who contribute through corn checkoff programs in their states. NCGA and its 48 affiliated state associations and checkoff organizations work together.

Harvest Weight Limit for Corn Growers, Effective Today

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Mindy Larsen-Poldberg, Iowa Corn Communications Director, 515-225-9242

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Harvest Weight Limit for Corn Growers, Effective Today

JOHNSTON, Iowa – October 1, 2009 – As combines hit the field this week in parts of the state, Governor Chet Culver signs into effect a proclamation granting a temporary weight limit exemption for trucks on Iowa roads. The proclamation specifically increases the weight allowable for shipment of corn, soybeans, hay, straw and stover to 10% per axle without the need for an oversize/overweight permit for 60 days.

A written release from Governor Culver stated, “We’re looking at another significant corn and soybean crop here in Iowa, and this proclamation will help Iowa’s farmers bring in the crops quickly. I am authorizing this temporary weigh limit exemption to assist farmers as they work to move this large crop in a small amount of time.”

The Governor’s proclamation applies to loads transported on all highways within Iowa, excluding the interstate system. Trucks cannot exceed a maximum of 10% per axle and must obey the posted limits on all roads and bridges.

“We are proud to have the privilege of another weight limit exemption for the 2009 season. We understand that the harvest weight proclamation is not a right by law, but a petition to the Governor.” Said Don Elsbernd, ICGA President and a corn grower from NE Iowa. “ICGA requested the proclamation and provided the Governor with information regarding late planting, low summer temperatures, the possibility of an early frost, and the estimated predictions of another outstanding and bountiful Iowa crop. We sincerely thank the Governor for his action.”

The exemption will be granted for 60 days beginning today, October 1, 2009.

###

The Iowa Corn Growers Association is a membership organization, lobbying on agricultural issues on behalf of its over 6,000 farmer members

Taiwan agricultural Trade Goodwill Mission Stops in Iowa

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Taiwan agricultural Trade Goodwill Mission Stops in Iowa

JOHNSTON, Iowa- September 28, 2009- A delegation from Taiwan met with representatives from the Iowa Corn Growers Association, the Iowa Corn Promotion Board and Iowa Soybean Association today to sign letters of intent for corn and soy products.

Don Elsbernd, a corn grower from Postville and president of the Iowa Corn Growers Association officially signed the agreement. “We appreciate the trade relations we share with Taiwan and this agreement signed today reiterates our commitment to providing a quality supply of corn. As our 4^th largest customer, we see this agreement as critical to our corn industry in Iowa and we think it shows their satisfaction with the product we are providing.”

The letter of intent specifically between the Taiwan Feed Industry Association of the Republic of China and corn producers in Iowa spells out a purchase total of 7.7 million to 10.5 million MT (equivalent to 303 million to 413 million bushels) of U.S. corn and a total of 0.5 million to 0.75 million MT of corn by-products (dried distiller’s grains) during 2010 and 2011. The purchase will amount to between US $1.69 billion and US $2.37 billion.

The Taiwan agricultural Trade Goodwill Mission stopped in Washington, D.C. and corn growing states of Indiana and Iowa. Their tour will conclude in Illinois and Missouri. Taiwan is the seventh largest export market for US agricultural products overall. In 2008, Iowa companies exported $85 million in goods to Taiwan, which ranked Taiwan as the 20^th largest export market for Iowa.

###

The ICPB and ICGA share a common mission to create opportunities for long-term Iowa corn grower profitability. The ICGA represents 6,000 members on a variety of agricultural issues important to growers. The ICPB invests Iowa corn checkoff funds to develop and defend markets, conduct research, and provide education about corn and corn products.

U.S. Grains Council Names Thomas C. Dorr President and CEO

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Former USDA Undersecretary for Rural Development Thomas C. Dorr will serve as president and CEO of the Washington, D.C., based U.S. Grains Council. Dorr accepted the charge to head the country’s largest export market development organization for barley, corn, sorghum and their co-products on Sept. 8, 2009. He will officially assume the role on Nov. 16. Dorr said being an Iowa farmer for more than 30 years and serving seven years with USDA afforded him the opportunity to understand and value the nearly 50 years of export market development efforts orchestrated by the Council.

“I am very familiar with the worldwide market development programs the Council has conducted since 1960,” said Dorr. “The Council is focused on global initiatives, but the real purpose of this organization is to sustain and build economic opportunity not only for rural America, but worldwide. I am excited to have the privilege to serve U.S. farmers and agribusinesses in this new capacity.”

Rick Fruth, USGC chairman and Ohio farmer, said Dorr has a broad agricultural, financial and business experience that qualifies him to lead the organization. “Dorr has a long history of service to agriculture and rural America, especially U.S. agriculture, and truly understands the day-to-day challenges U.S. farmers face. He has an ability to facilitate consensus and enable unity resulting in solid solutions,” said Fruth. “He will have an exceptional global staff ready to serve.”

As undersecretary for Rural Development, Dorr led programs to expand rural infrastructure, including electric, broadband and water services, rural entrepreneurial efforts and rural housing. Dorr has served as a member of the board of directors of the 7th District Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, the Iowa Board of Regents and as a member and officer of the Iowa and National Corn Growers Associations. Dorr, from Marcus, Iowa, was the president of a family farm and agribusiness company for 29 years.

Dorr said his first priority will be to work with the Council’s membership, Board of Directors and staff to clearly define, not just the challenges, but the opportunities for international grain trade. “I am thrilled to be afforded the honor to work with and for an organization that has developed trusted relationships with international government leaders, livestock producers and grain processing organizations worldwide. Its membership intends we continue to build on its successes.”

Dorr succeeds Ken Hobbie, USGC’s president and CEO for the last 18 years and who has been with the Council for a total of 33 years. Kelly Kincannon, chairman of Kincannon and Reed, a Washington, D.C., based global executive search firm focused on the food, agribusiness and life science sectors, assisted in the recruitment.

-30-

Join the Iowa Corn Fed Game Day Pump Rally

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kum & Go to Offer E85 fuel for 85 cents,

plus your chance for free ethanol and other prizes

JOHNSTON, Iowa – Sept. 7, 2009 – Iowa Corn is excited to partner with Cyclone Sports Properties, Hawkeye Sports Properties, the Premier Chevy Dealers and Kum & Go for the Iowa Corn Fed GameDay DriveAway. To kick off the weekend, Iowa Corn will host an Iowa - Iowa State pre-game pump rally at the Kum & Go store located at 2801 13^th Ave. in Ames.

Consumers should drive into Kum & Go from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 11 to register for prizes including ethanol, free tickets to the Iowa - Iowa State football game on Saturday and more. Kum & Go will be offering E85 fuel for 85 cents per gallon during the promotion.

Iowans will be able to register for the GameDay DriveAway grand prize- a victory red, 2009 Chevy Silverado fueled by Iowa’s corn growers and running on E85 or Super Unleaded. Plus, two lucky winners will receive ethanol for a year!

“Iowa Corn is proud to partner with the Premier Chevrolet Dealers, Kum&Go as well as Iowa and Iowa State athletics on the GameDay DriveAway to promote flexible fuel vehicles and corn fed ethanol,” said Shannon Textor, Iowa Corn market development director.

The Iowa Corn Fed GameDay DriveAway is part of a GameDay partnership that includes the Iowa and Iowa State football, basketball, and wrestling seasons. Consumers can enter the drawing once each month from July 10 through November 21 online at www.iacornfed.com or they can sign up in person at this promotion or the Iowa and Iowa State football game on September 12.

Iowa Corn Hosts the Iowa vs. Iowa State Pump Rally

Friday, September 11^th, 2009 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Kum & Go – 2801 13^th Ave, Ames, Iowa

Corn Growers’ New Policies Set for 2009 Legislative Session

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Grassroots representatives from the Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) reinstated expiring policies, adopted new issues, and found plenty to debate at the ICGA’s annual policy conference in Des Moines on August 29.

“This meeting is key to set our board and staff ‘marching orders’ so to speak for the coming policy year,” said Don Elsbernd, the Postville corn grower who becomes ICGA President on September 1. “

I was glad to see a full house this weekend. We had good debate on upcoming policy and current events. It was just another way to see that corn growers from across the state are engaged in policy decisions that affect their operations.”

Key policy discussions were held on emerging issues such as carbon and indirect land use. The following resolutions were approved.

On Climate Change and Indirect Land Use:

· As carbon or cap and trade legislation or regulations are proposed, ICGA should review the scientific merit and economic impacts of such proposals, to determine whether the law would support the long-term profitability of the Iowa corn grower. ICGA should remain opposed to the current version of the 2009 Waxman-Markey climate change bill if it does not support long term corn grower profitability. (2010)

· We oppose international indirect land use in calculation of carbon footprint for renewable fuels so that renewable fuels are on an equal footing with petroleum and other industries. (2010)

· ICGA to call upon Iowa’s congressional delegation to hold town hall meetings and congressional hearings on climate change legislation (2010)

Food Safety

· ICGA should work to educate policymakers and regulators as to how the food system works in reality; to enhance food safety but implement in a way that is practical for farmers. (2010).

Other items included continued support for ethanol and conservation efforts. The entire 2009-2010 policy resolution book will be posted to www.iowacorn.org by October 1.

Over 240 delegates and their families participated in the 2009 Annual Meeting and Policy Conference, representing 55 county corn grower organizations. The conference is the year end event in the ICGA’s annual policy development process, which includes an issues poll of all members and regional roundtable discussions across the state.

The ICGA is a membership organization, lobbying on agricultural issues on behalf of its 6,000 members.

Join Iowa Growers for Corn Day at the State Fair

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

State fair visitors are invited to celebrate all things corn on Friday, Aug. 21, on the fairground’s grand concourse with the Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) and the Iowa Corn Promotion Board (ICPB) during Iowa Corn Day at the Fair.

“From the youngest fairgoers on up, we’ll have plenty for people to enjoy,” said Don Elsbernd, ICGA president-elect. “Iowa’s history and culture are uniquely rooted in corn, and there’s no better time than the state fair for all of us to celebrate corn’s benefits.”

The day will feature special autograph sessions with University of Iowa and Iowa State University sports figures as part of the Iowa CornFed Gameday Giveaway, a corn growers’ program to promote Iowa and Iowa corn.

“We’ll have players signing autographs at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.,” Elsbernd explained. “We’ll also have tattoos and coloring pages for kids throughout the day. Adult fairgoers can register at our tent for GameDay Giveaway drawings that will award multiple prizes, including ethanol fuel for a year and a flexible-fuel Chevy Silverado.”

The ISU and Iowa athletic departments and Iowa Corn will host a meet-and-greet and press event at 10 a.m. At 10:30, Iowa and Iowa State celebrities will compete in a new athletic effort modeled on beanbags – the Corn Hole Toss – and WHO Radio will broadcast The Big Show live from the growers’ tent at 11:30.

For a full schedule of Iowa Corn Day events, go to www.IACornFed.org.

Iowa Corn Announces the Iowa Corn Fed GameDay DriveAway

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Johnston, IA – July 23, 2009 – Iowa Corn is excited to announce the Iowa Corn Fed GameDay DriveAway in partnership with Cyclone Sports Properties and Hawkeye Sports Properties and the Premier Chevy Dealers. The GameDay DriveAway grand prize is a victory red, 2009 Chevy Silverado fueled by Iowa’s corn growers and running on E85 or Super Unleaded, plus 2 lucky winners will receive ethanol for a year!

“Iowa Corn is proud to partner with the Premier Chevrolet Dealers as well as Iowa and Iowa State athletics on the GameDay DriveAway to promote flexible fuel vehicles and ethanol-blended fuel up to E85,” said Shannon Textor, Iowa Corn market development director.

The Iowa Corn Fed GameDay DriveAway is part of a GameDay partnership that includes the Iowa and Iowa State football, basketball, and wrestling seasons. Consumers can enter the drawing once each month from July 10 through November 21 online at www.iacornfed.com or they can sign up in person at Kids Day at Kinnick on August 15, the Iowa State Fair on August 21, Cyclone Fan Fest on August 23, and the Iowa and Iowa State football game on September 12.

Weekly winners will be given free game tickets and other prizes. The ethanol prizes will be given away at the Iowa and Iowa State women’s basketball game and the wrestling match up in December. Ten lucky winners will attend the Iowa and Iowa State men’s basketball game on December 11th to try their luck at opening the door of the GameDay DriveAway Chevy Silverado.

Visit one of the Premier Chevrolet Dealers to test drive your own Chevy flexible fuel vehicle or go to www.iacornfed.com for a complete listing of Premier Chevrolet Dealers.

The Iowa Corn Fed GameDay DriveAway is part of a larger 4 year signed partnership with both Hawkeye Sport Properties and Cyclone Sports Properties. The promotion includes radio, television, internet, and on-site marketing. The campaign highlights the many uses for corn and its importance to Iowa- as everyday is GameDay for Iowa’s farmers.

###

For ongoing corn- fed information, details about the FFV, contest entry rules, and a complete listing of corn fed promotions, go to www.iacornfed.com.

Corn Growers Bring Issues to Iowa’s Congressional Delegation

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Iowa corn grower leaders took issues to Capitol Hill last week during part of the policy discussions during the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) Corn Congress.

“As the top corn producing state with senior legislative leaders, Iowa plays a very important part in not only state issues, but in federal policy efforts too,” said Gary Edwards, Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) president and a corn grower from Anamosa. “This is an opportunity to sit down with our legislators and discuss issues in the bill process as well as issues that are arising on the countryside.”

Hot topics discussed by each member of Iowa’s Congressional Delegation included climate change legislation, cap and trade, food safety, and exports. Both Harkin and Grassley’s staff expressed they would remember Iowa’s agricultural community when the climate change, cap and trade, and in-direct land use legislation comes their way.

Farmers attending the meetings also discussed farm programs such as ACRE implementation with Jim Miller, USDA's Under Secretary for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services and staff. Carbon sequestration and climate were heavily discussed topics with Ag Counselor for the Environmental Protection Administration, Larry Elworth. Both governmental agencies extended the invitation to keep an open dialogue with Iowa’s corn grower leaders.

Edwards also cited the yearly Corn Congress as an opportunity for corn growers to meet with other state leaders on projects that cross state lines and to maintain contact with leading agribusiness representatives. “We know about growing corn in Iowa and the policies that would be best for us. By going to meet with other groups we are able to voice our concerns and positions and build strength in numbers by working with other states.”

The National Corn Growers Association, representing 33,000 members including 6,000 Iowa growers, lobbies in Washington D.C. The Corn Congress brings together corn states to discuss policy created at the grassroots level. It also gives states the opportunity to meet with their respective state legislators and other policy makers.

- 30 -

Iowan Elected to NCGA Governing Board

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Pam Johnson, a corn grower from Floyd County and director on the Iowa Corn Promotion Board (ICPB), has been elected to the National Corn Growers Association’s (NCGA) governing Corn Board.

Now in her eighth year on the ICPB, Johnson sits on the Industrial Usage & U.S. Production Committee and the Research & Business Development Committee. At the national level, she chairs NCGA’s Research & Business Development Action Team and serves on the U.S. Grains Council’s Biotechnology Advisory Team.

She has chaired several Iowa committees in the past, played a major role in establishing the I-LEAD ag leadership program, and served in all four ICPB officer positions, chairing the ICPB in 2005-2006. She was named Iowa’s Woman in Agriculture in 2006.

“Pam has given a lot of time and leadership as an advocate for agriculture at the local, state, and national level,” said Craig Floss, the ICPB’s chief executive officer. “She will do an outstanding job representing Iowa’s corn growers nationally and internationally.”

Johnson was one of ten candidates competing for five positions on the Corn Board. Also elected were Guy Davenport of North Carolina, Clark Gerstacker from Michigan, Mike Geske from Missouri, and Mark Schwiebert from Ohio.

She joins two Iowans already serving on the Corn Board: former Iowa Corn Growers Association President Dave Nelson from Belmond and former ICPB Chair Daryl Haack from Primghar.

Johnson farms with her husband Maurice and two sons near Floyd in a diversified operation that includes grain, livestock, and participation in farmer-run ethanol and biodiesel cooperatives.

Iowa Corn fed Partnership with Iowa and Iowa State Athletics

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Iowa Corn Growers and the Iowa Corn Promotion Board today announced a unique partnership with Learfield Sports on behalf of the University of Iowa and Iowa State University Athletic Departments for a statewide, multi-year, multi-sports promotional joint venture.

"On behalf of Iowa’s corn growers, I am proud to be a part of this unique partnership," said Craig Floss, CEO for Iowa Corn. "If you come from Iowa, it’s not just about the big game oryour affiliation with Iowa or Iowa State. It’s about being an Iowan and being proud of where you grew up. The biggest sporting event in Iowa is the perfect opportunity to educate Iowaconsumers about corn and products made from corn."

In addition to game day activities and special prize giveaways, Iowa Corn will promote corn ethanol and other products made from corn through the "Drive of the Game" report on statewide radio, and Iowa Corn will also be the title sponsor of both coaches’s shows on television. "We are extremely excited about the opportunity to work with the Iowa Corn Promotion Board and the Iowa Corn Growers Association on their efforts to reach out and educate fans of the Iowa Hawkeyes and friends of the University of Iowa about the important role corn growers play in our state and the economic impact they have on our country, More importantly, we’re delighted they have the confidence in us that we can help them effectively deliver their important messages," said Gary Barta, the UI’s director of athletics.

As part of the four-year multi-media agreement, Iowa Corn will reach out to consumers through a total Iowa and Iowa State sports package including football, men’s and women’s basketball, and wrestling. Jamie Pollard, director of athletics at Iowa State University, said, "We are very excited to expand our relationship with the Iowa Corn Growers Association and the Iowa Corn Promotion Board.

We think it is a perfect partnership for both our institution and for all the corn growers throughout the State of Iowa." Stay tuned for more information on the Iowa Corn fed partnership, including giveaways and special events at www.iacornfed.com.

# # #

Iowa Corn Growers Association

Established in 1967, the ICGA is the oldest state corn growers association. The ICGA is a membership organization, lobbying on agricultural issues on behalf of its 6,000 members.

Iowa Corn Promotion Board

Established by grower referendum in 1977, the ICPB directs the investment of Iowa corn checkoff funds to develop and defend markets, fund research, and provide education about corn and corn products.

Each organization is governed by a board of corn growers, elected by their peers. Both share a common mission: creating opportunities for long-term Iowa corn grower profitability.

Learfield Sports, which will oversee the Iowa Corn partnership, manages the multimedia rights for both Iowa and

Iowa State Athletics through its respective locally based properties, Hawkeye Sports Properties and Cyclone Sports Properties. The company manages the multimedia rights for more than 50 collegiate institutions and associations overall, and it titles the Learfield Sports Directors' Cup. It also oversees marketing partnerships for the Black Coaches & Administrators (BCA) and provides exclusive sports programming to more than 1,000 radio stations nationwide. Learfield Sports is an operating unit of Jefferson City, Mo.-based Learfield Communications, Inc., which made its initial foray into the world of sports marketing in 1975. For additional information on the company and its collegiate portfolio, visit learfieldsports.com.

Statewide Corn Grower Discussions

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Members of the Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) will gather at six roundtable meetings across Iowa next week to talk over the state of the corn industry, grower concerns, and the positions the ICGA should take on behalf of its members.

“Our roundtables make it easy for any ICGA member to put a new concern on our radar screen or suggest a specific policy we should promote,” explained Don Elsbernd, ICGA president-elect. “It’s informal, it’s a good chance for fellowship with other corn growers, and it’s a great opportunity to discuss issues that can affect our farming practices.”

Elsbernd said he expects there will be a good deal of discussion about issues like cap-and-trade. “In my experience, every farmer has good ideas to share. I’m looking forward to some really useful discussions.”

The sessions are a key step in the ICGA’s policy process. Comments offered at any roundtable session will be reviewed by ICGA committees prior to consideration at the ICGA’s August policy conference.

This year, all roundtables will run from 6 to 9 p.m. with dinner included. All ICGA members are welcome and are encouraged to bring potential members with them.

The dates and locations are:

June 29 Nederlanders Grille, 604 8^th St. SE, Orange City

June 29 Boike’s Trailside Inn, 152 S. Main St., Fayette

June 30 Prime Time, 1903 Highway 169 #A, Algona

June 30 Danish Inn, 4116 Main St., Elk Horn

July 1 Fisher Community Center, 709 S. Center St., Marshalltown

July 1 Sirloin Stockade, 2645 Northgate St., Ottumwa

Members are encouraged (but not required) to call in and reserve a seat. For more details, members should call the ICGA at 515-225-9242 or e-mail corninfo@iowacorn.org. Maps and directions are also available on the Iowa Corn website, www.iowacorn.org, by clicking on the “policy process begins with you” link.

Glidden Man Drives Home a Winner- From the Iowa Corn Indy 250

Sun, 21 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Craig Daniel was a winner at the Iowa Speedway in Newton even before the Iowa Corn Indy 250 got under way today. Daniel was the first to try his key and was surprised when it opened the door of the 2009 flex-fuel (FFV) Chevy Silverado.

The drawing, conducted before nearly 40,000 spectators just before the race began was the high point of the Iowa Corn Fed campaign, a six-month Iowa corn growers’ program to showcase the many ways corn benefits Iowa and Iowans.

Ethanol use was just one benefit featured in the program, which included food and feed uses for corn and messages about corn’s importance to Iowa’s economy, environment and energy independence.

“We’ve reached thousands of people with the Iowa Corn Fed campaign,” said Shannon Textor, director of market development for the Iowa Corn Promotion Board (ICPB) and the Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA).

In addition to ethanol, weekly winners took home corn-fed beef, pork and other groceries, Textor said. “The Chevy Silverado was the grand prize and giving it away at a venue focus on the power of ethanol, like the Iowa Corn Indy 250 makes sense,” she concluded.

Ten randomly selected finalists from more than 11,000 entries, received free tickets to the Iowa Corn Indy 250 to participate in the giveaway. In addition to Craig Daniel from Glidden, the other finalists included: Margaret Backhaus, Westside; Kevin Gribben, Mason City; Nick Horstman, Britt; Rose Kreiman, Bloomfield; Darrell Jensen, Audubon; Julie Zittergruen, Guttenberg; Allison Pendroy, Urbandale; Roger Hoffman, Cedar Rapids; and Kent Reinking, Oelwein.

Textor thanked Iowa’s Premier 10 Chevy Dealers, the Iowa Speedway, Kum & Go, the Iowa Beef Council, the Iowa Pork Producers and Mediacom for joining with the Iowa Corn Growers Association and the Iowa Corn Promotion Board to sponsor the Iowa Corn Fed sweepstakes.

For more information, visit www.iacornfed.com.

Congressional Staff, Reporters to Hear from Iowa Grower

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Mindy Williamson, ICGA Public Relations and Communications Director, 515-225-9242

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Congressional Staff, Reporters to Hear from Iowa Grower

JOHNSTON, IA – June 5, 2009 – Tim Recker, Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) past president, will play a key role June 9 as part of a Corn Farmers Coalition (CFC) informative briefing for congressional staff members and Capitol Hill reporters.

Recker explained. “We want to make sure everyone is up to speed with accurate information on corn production today. This briefing is a great opportunity to put scientific information in the hands of people who write our environmental and farm policies.”

Other issues the CFC plans to address include corn farmers’ capacity to grow enough corn for food and fuel uses and new farm practices that are contributing to cleaner water. Innovation and changes in corn production will be key elements.

Iowa Representative Leonard Boswell and Illinois Representative John Shimkus are lead speakers for the program. Recker’s task will be to answer questions from a corn grower’s perspective.

The ICGA, nine other state grower groups, and the National Corn Growers Association work jointly through the CFC on one specific task: informing Washington policy-makers about how farmers grow more corn every year while using less resources and with less environmental impact.

Recker, who farms near Arlington in Fayette County, was president of the ICGA from 2007 to 2008 and an active spokesman for corn growers during the food and fuel debate last year.

###

The ICGA is a membership organization, lobbying on agricultural issues on behalf of more than 6,000 members.

Iowa Governor Supports E15

Mon, 18 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

reprinted from Midwest AgNet
http://www.midwestagnet.com/Global/story.asp?S=10349880&nav=menu1585_8

GOVERNOR CULVER REQUESTS FEDERAL GOVERNMENT FOR E-15 ETHANOL WAIVER

DES MOINES, IA(release) - Governor Chet Culver has sent a letter to Lisa Jackson, Administrator of the US Environmental Protection Agency, requesting a waiver to allow for the sale of an E-15 blend of ethanol. The move comes as the EPA is seeking public comment on the proposal.

"Iowa has led the nation in the development and use of ethanol," said Governor Culver. "By lifting the artificial cap on ethanol blends, we can increase the demand on ethanol, reduce our dependence on imported oil, and create new good-paying green collar jobs. As Governor, I have never wavered in my commitment to ethanol, and believe that when combined with other homegrown energy efforts like wind and biodiesel, can play an integral role in building a brighter, stronger, greener future for Iowa, and America."

Studies have shown that moving to E-15 has no impact on a car's drivability, and will create thousands of jobs. A recent study by the University of North Dakota found that moving to E-15 will create more than 136,000 new green-collar jobs. In addition, the move could generate $24.4 billion for the U.S. economy and displace seven billion gallons of imported gasoline each year.

The text of Governor Culver's letter is below:

The Honorable Lisa P. Jackson

Administrator

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, DC 20460-2403

Dear Administrator Jackson:

On behalf of the State of Iowa, I respectfully ask that the United States Environmental Protection Agency approve a waiver to increase the allowable ethanol content of gasoline to 15 percent (E15) as recently requested by a consortium of ethanol producers under 211(F) (4) of the Clean Air Act. The people of Iowa know that increasing the amount of ethanol that can be blended into the nation's fuel supply will create green jobs, environmental benefit and help eliminate our nation's dependence on foreign oil.

The combination of the current economic challenges, lower oil prices and the near saturation of the 10 percent ethanol blend market are weakening the foundation of an industry that saved the nation hundreds of billions of dollars in oil imports in the past several years, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The impact of today's recession and these market conditions on the existing ethanol industry is great. The real threat is to the future of biofuels - cellulosic, bio-oils, advanced biofuels. Declining private investors' support for biofuels projects, and the focus, resources, and talent needed to achieve an advanced biofuels future will be lost without a market for the fuels.

I respectfully ask you to act quickly to take this critical step to address the immediate struggles of the ethanol industry. The State of Iowa stands committed to working with you and your agency to ensure the success of biofuels in the future.

Thank you for your leadership and support.

Sincerely,

Chester J. Culver

Governor of Iowa

Last Chance to Enter

Thu, 14 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Iowa Corn Fed Sweepstakes is in its final weeks, and Iowans only have until May 22 to enter their names in the drawing for a 2009 flex-fuel Chevy Silverado.

The most recent weekly winners – Eric Howard of Johnston, Brian Amesser of Burlington, and Ryan Gaines of Cedar Rapids – each won $100 in Pork Coupons. Like other weekly winners, their names remain eligible for the Silverado drawing.

After all weekly winners are named, a final drawing will select the ten people who will receive free tickets to the Iowa Corn Indy 250 and a chance to win the Silverado. On June 21 at the Iowa Corn Indy 250, one lucky finalist will draw the winning key and drive home with the Silverado.

Sweepstakes entries are still being accepted via the Iowa Corn Fed website (www.iacornfed.com), at Premier 10 Chevy dealerships, or at the final Iowa Corn Fed tour stops listed on the website.

Shannon Textor, market development director for the Iowa Corn Promotion Board (ICPB), thanked the Iowa Speedway, Kum & Go, Mediacom and the Premier 10 Chevy Dealers for their contributions to the Iowa Corn Fed campaign, which highlights corn’s importance in food, fuel, and the Iowa economy.

She also thanked Iowa Pork and the Iowa Beef Industry Council for contributing gift certificates to help recognize corn’s role in livestock feeding.

The Farmer Image

Fri, 08 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

What Is the Farmer's Image?

There is more insight now on what consumers think about America’s farmers in a recent survey, called the 2009 National Agricultural Image Survey, which was recently released to the public.

"The survey is an important tool that helps the checkoff develop effective messaging to promote soy-based, environmentally safe products and the importance of maintaining animal agriculture," says Vanessa Kummer, a USB director and soybean farmer from Colfax, N.D.

The study, which took place in February, surveyed a random sample of 1,000 registered voters with characteristics representative of the U.S. population. The results provide insights into seven main issues, including: the image of U.S. poultry and livestock producers; a farmer attribute analysis; and consumer attitudes on confinement, food prices, confinement legislation, biobased products and biodiesel.

Some of the key findings from the study include:

Individuals who are somewhat or very favorable toward U.S. poultry and livestock producers rose from 69 percent in 2008 to 78 percent in 2009.

Top positive farmer attributes among consumers are that farm families know about protecting air and water quality and that most farmers take good care of their animals.

Nearly 90 percent of consumers do not see farmers as a major reason for increases in food prices.

Most consumers agree that it’s important to subsidize farmers to ensure a safe food supply.

After hearing that anti-confinement legislation could force Americans to get their milk, eggs and meat from foreign producers, 78 percent of consumers are against the legislation.

Consumers see energy security as the most important benefit of biobased products.

Source for survey: National Agricultural Image Survey, February 2009, conducted on behalf of Foley and Lardner LLP by Wilson Research Strategies. United Soybean Board

More Iowans Claim Prizes in Cornfed Sweepstakes

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Nine more Iowans have won gift certificates for beef, pork, or fuel in the Iowa Corn Fed Sweepstakes. The sweepstakes, designed to highlight the many ways Iowans benefit from corn, will reach its high point on June 21 at the Iowa Corn Indy 250 race, where one lucky semifinalist will win a 2009 Chevy Silverado.

Ronald Anderson, Lake City; Mike Coleman, Humboldt; Richard Wallace, Orient; and Michael Donohoe, Norwalk, each won a certificate for $100 worth of beef, and Ed Wilson, Sperry, is the first Iowan to win a $100 certificate for pork.

Four weekly winners – Kristen Ward from Des Moines, Virginia Zahnd from Marshalltown, Cheyenne Cochran from St. Charles, and Jill Wedeking from Nemaha – scored $100 gift Kum & Go gift cards.

Three more weekly winners of pork certificates will be chosen before a final drawing on May 22 to determine the ten semifinalists who will receive free tickets to the Iowa Corn Indy 250 and a chance to win the Silverado.

Shannon Textor, market development director for the Iowa Corn Promotion Board (ICPB), emphasizes that there is still time to enter the competition: “You can enter online at www.iacornfed.com or at any Premier 10 Chevy dealership – or come to one of our sweepstake tour events, check out the Silverado, and enter there.”

Textor thanked sweepstakes partners Kum & Go, the Iowa Speedway, Mediacom and the Premier 10 Chevy Dealers for their contributions to the campaign effort. She also thanked Iowa Pork and the Iowa Beef Industry Council for contributing gift certificates to help recognize corn’s role in livestock feeding.

Tour events continue through late May and include an Iowa Cubs game, a PBR bull riding event, two ISU tailgate tours, the NASCAR East/West Race at Newton, and a Cedar Rapids Kernels game. Specific dates are listed on the cornfed website.

The Iowa Corn Fed Sweepstakes is part of a broader information campaign developed by the Iowa Corn Promotion Board and the Iowa Corn Growers Association to showcase corn’s importance to Iowa’s consumers and the Iowa economy.

Iowa Joins Corn Farmers Coalition to Reach Policy Makers

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Iowa Corn Promotion Board and Iowa Corn Growers Association are joining with the National Corn Growers Association and nine other states in an effort to educate lawmakers in Washington D.C. about corn ethanol through a new group, the Corn Farmers Coalition.

“The coalition hopes to educate those who drive the thought processes in Washington D.C.,” said Mark Lambert, lead for the Corn Farmers Coalition. “Much of the national data and information is collected and based in offices in Washington D.C. So although the work is being done on the farms across the country, the facts lawmakers need are ‘right in their own backyard’ in agencies such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture.”

The coalition is heading for a three-prong advertising campaign including print, web, and radio with the overriding theme being corn growers produce more from less with educational ads on environmental footprints and innovative technology. The ads also capitalize on the fact that more than 90 percent of U.S. corn farms are family owned and operated.

In addition to the advertising campaign, the Corn Farmers Coalition plans to host a briefing for congressmen, senators, and their staff members along with a think tank meeting in D.C.

“The goal is to supply accurate, factual information about corn production,” said Shannon Textor, Iowa Corn market development director and staff lead from Iowa. “The assumptions about how things on the farm are done today are alarming, and this is a concentrated effort to educate decision makers.”

A website, www.cornfarmerscoalition.com, will further spread the group’s information.

The Corn Farmers Coalition includes the Iowa Corn Growers Association, Iowa Corn Promotion Board, Illinois Corn Marketing Board, Indiana Corn Marketing Council, Kansas Corn Commission, Kentucky Corn Growers Association, Missouri Corn Merchandising Council, Nebraska Corn Board, Ohio Corn Growers Association, Virginia Grain Producers Association, Wisconsin Corn Growers Association, and the National Corn Growers Association.

Iowa Corn Growers Back Livestock, Ethanol, Trade Policies

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) delegates to the Commodity Classic advanced a mix of resolutions aimed at improving the outlook for the three largest corn-using sectors: livestock feeding, ethanol, and trade.

“The National Corn Growers Association policy discussions this year were very much about fine-tuning our resolutions,” explained Don Elsbernd, ICGA president-elect. “It was a year for making incremental adjustments instead of major policy changes.”

As an example, he cited an ICGA policy supporting testing and certification of conversion kits that could be retrofitted onto cars to allow them to burn E85. “We want to make it easier for more consumers to drive flex fuel vehicles and buy E85 at the gas pump. Now our Iowa position is the official policy of the NCGA, which really strengthens our hand at the national level.”

The Iowa delegation also offered a resolution in support of the Colombia and Panama free trade agreements, which the NCGA delegate body adopted.

Another approved resolution opposed the administration’s plan to cut off farm program direct payments based on the level of gross sales. Elsbernd pointed out that gross sales are not a reliable measure of farmers’ profitability in the current climate of volatile grain prices and extremely high input costs.

He applauded the farmer leadership that guides the ICGA and NCGA policy process: “We have a system where the ideas an Iowa grower brings to our summer roundtable meetings can advance to the national policy level and become the official position of the entire National Corn Growers Association – and that means real grassroots leadership at work in the halls of Congress.”

Energy Prices and the Cost of Food: What it Really Costs This Harvest

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Every truckload of corn that Gary Woodley drives to the elevator this fall is good news for consumers of corn-based food and fuel, but every mile Woodley drives is costing him more.

More corn means a better income for farmers and a plentiful supply of grain for consumers, but today’s high fuel prices are steadily increasing the cost of supplying corn and eating away at corn grower margins.

“We’re like every other American consumer,” says Woodley, who raises corn and soybeans near Clarion, Iowa. “If we’re going to move our crop to market, we have to pay for the fuel. We’re always looking for ways to be more energy efficient and get some control on our energy needs.”

Energy costs can add up quickly during harvest. For Iowa’s 12.9 million acres of corn, just running the combines could mean $81 million alone in fuel costs this season.

In recent years, consolidation among grain elevators has increased how far growers drive to deliver their crop. Once there may have been several grain elevators in a county; today there’s often only one. For a grower with a 15 mile trip one way, that’s about $20 worth of diesel for every 900 bushels of corn.

Unfortunately, the costs don’t end at the elevator. There Woodley’s corn and thousands of other bushels are loaded onto unit trains of 52 cars or more. Rail shipment from a loading point like Council Bluffs to the feed yards in Texas or to the Mexico border for export can cost from $.90 to more than a dollar for every bushel.

Transportation by barge is a more economical choice for much of the corn bound for export. A gallon of diesel will move a metric ton of corn (39.4 bushels) about 117 miles by semi or 228 miles by rail. Put the corn aboard a barge, and one gallon will move it almost 300 miles.

“Using the river system is better, but it is far from perfect,” according to Dean Taylor, an Iowa Corn Growers Association director who follows transportation issues. “We run into delays because our river infrastructure is out-of-date and inefficient, which ultimately costs time and money.”

Corn Exports Post Near-Record in 2007-08

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

U.S. corn exports turned in a near-record performance during the 2007-08 marketing year for corn.

“Ethanol demand isn’t the only contributor to strong farm gate prices,” says Darrel McAlexander, chair of the Iowa Corn Promotion Board (ICPB). “The unofficial numbers from USDA’s Foreign Agriculture Service show 2007-08 as one of the top three or four years in corn export history.

“At the end of the standardized trade year (October to September), this may be our second-best year ever.”

McAlexander, who is currently in Mexico working to promote Iowa corn exports, emphasized that export sales are essential to grower profitability: “We continue to produce more corn, and we have to make sure demand keeps pace for corn growers to operate in the black. That means promoting corn use in livestock, in processing, and for exports.”

U.S. corn shipments increased over the previous year in 12 of the top 20 U.S. export markets, led by Japan. Sales jumped especially in South Korea, which posted a 112% increase, but fell back in Mexico, Taiwan and Egypt, the other top five markets. In all, 59 foreign countries purchased U.S. corn.

The ICPB funds U.S. Grains Council export market development programs, which maintains offices or representatives in 19 major markets and reaches thousands of grain buyers and users annually. USGC programs promote exports of commodity corn, value-added corn varieties and processed corn products like distillers grains from Iowa’s ethanol industry.

The ICPB also works to increase Iowa-specific exports, and it funds the U.S. Meat Export Federation to increase sales of corn-fed beef, pork and lamb.

###

The Iowa Corn Promotion Board collects checkoff dollars for research, education, and market development.

20 Iowans Named to Ag Leadership Program’s New Class

Tue, 09 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Twenty Iowans from a wide range of backgrounds have been named to the new Iowa Corn Leadership Enhancement And Development (I-LEAD) class that will begin meeting after the 2008 harvest.

“This is the most competition we’ve seen yet for participation in I-LEAD,” said Doug Holliday, an ICGA director and chair of the committee that oversees the program. “The applicants we had to choose from this year were outstanding. What it tells me is that we still have a lot of untapped talent in this state and a lot of people who can move our industry forward.”

The program, sponsored by the Iowa Corn Promotion Board (ICPB) and the Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA), is designed to help people with a commitment to Iowa’s food and ag future develop their leadership skills.

Holliday emphasized that it is not a corn-only program: “This class includes livestock and row crop producers, representatives from government, finance and the university, people who work for major agribusinesses and others who are building their own enterprises. The common factor is that they’ve got great potential and they care about agriculture and food.”

I-LEAD Class IV, selected through a competitive application process, includes: Lowell Appleton from Sanborn, Neil Bouray from Randolph, Cathy Brown from Columbus Junction, Scott Brown from Columbus Junction, Will Cannon from Newton, Chris Clark from Ida Grove, Klint Cork from Galva, Devin Dutilly from Ames, Chris Edgington from St. Ansgar, Kurt Hora from Washington, Darcy Maulsby from Lake City, Cody McKinley from Ankeny, Todd Mikkelson from Cedar Falls, Derek Prostine from Clarksville, Jason Robinson from Baxter, Michael Schon from Spencer, Suzanne Shirbroun from Farmersburg, Dustin Vande Hoef from Des Moines, Roger Vander Veen from Hartley, and Chris Weydert from Algona.

The two-year program will expose them to a wide variety of issues and challenges facing agriculture and will provide skills training that relates to effective leadership. Most of the nine workshops will be in Iowa, but the group will travel out-of-state several times, including a week in Washington, DC and an international study mission to countries the class will select.

Corn Growers Applaud EPA Ruling on RFS

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

ICGA News
Corn Growers Applaud EPA Ruling on RFS

Johnston,IA, August 8, 2008 - Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) leaders today applauded the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) decision to reject a requested waiver of the Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS).

“If you dig into the facts, it’s clear that an RFS waiver would not be good for Americans, since it would increase gasoline prices for all of us,” said Tim Recker, ICGA president and a grower from Arlington. “We are very pleased that the EPA’s analysts crunched the numbers and believed that facts. Sustaining the RFS is important for U.S. consumers and for Iowa farmers.”

Recker noted that ethanol use saves consumers about $.45 per gallon every time they buy motor fuel.

“The RFS has put us on the road to relying more on U.S. produced biofuels and less on high-priced foreign oil. There’s no reason to turn back,” he said. “The RFS is the right fuel policy for America. We can all applaud the EPA for making the right decision today.”

The request for a waiver of RFS requirements was submitted by Texas authorities. Senator Charles Grassley, Senator Tom Harkin, Governor Chet Culver and other key Iowa leaders opposed the waiver.

Iowa leads the nation in corn production and in processing corn into ethanol. The ICGA, which promotes policy issues on behalf of its grower members, is a leader in working for ethanol-friendly public policies like the RFS at both the state and national level.

Contact:
Mindy Williamson,
Director of Communications,
515-225-9242

Corn Growers Commend Governor’s RFS Stance

Fri, 01 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Corn Growers Commend Governor’s RFS Stance

Grower’s Semi Illustrates Iowa Corn’s Many Food

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Grower’s Semi Illustrates Iowa Corn’s Many Food

Considering Both Food and Fuel

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Considering Both Food and Fuel. Considering Both Food and Fuel. Considering Both Food and Fuel. Considering Both Food and Fuel. Considering Both Food and Fuel

ICGA Hails Food and Farm Bill Passage

Fri, 04 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

ICGA Hails Food and Farm Bill Passage. ICGA Hails Food and Farm Bill Passage. ICGA Hails Food and Farm Bill Passage. ICGA Hails Food and Farm Bill Passage. ICGA Hails Food and Farm Bill Passage. ICGA Hails Food and Farm Bill Passage. ICGA Hails Food and Farm Bill Passage. ICGA Hails Food and Farm Bill Passage. ICGA Hails Food and Farm Bill Passage. ICGA Hails Food and Farm Bill Passage. ICGA Hails Food and Farm Bill Passage. ICGA Hails Food and Farm Bill Passage.

Iowa has 85 corn-based E85 pumps state-wide

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Iowa has 85 corn-based E85 pumps state-wide. Iowa has 85 corn-based E85 pumps state-wide. Iowa has 85 corn-based E85 pumps state-wide. Iowa has 85 corn-based E85 pumps state-wide.