Jan 30, 2024
2023 Fields-of-Corn.com Photo Contest Winners AnnouncedAuthor: Beth Musgrove
The National Corn Growers Association’s (NCGA) new Fields-of-Corn.com photo contest site attracted new participants as well as seasoned contest alumni, resulting in a record-breaking number of entrants and high-quality photo submissions. Our 2023 grand prize winner, for Ready! is no stranger to the Fields-of-Corn.com contest. Mary Morken of Casselton, North Dakota has been contributing since 2017! https://fields-of-corn.com/image/4406 In contrast, the award for Most Popular belongs to newcomer Michael Sanders of Sun Prairie, Wisconsin for Sunset on Another Harvest with 2,850 votes. https://fields-of-corn.com/image/4179 The tenth contest began Sept. 1 and broke records with more than 600 photos across eight categories. The new Red, White, and Blue and the Farm Family Lifestyle categories were awarded solely on votes, providing judges with aid as six remaining categories were just short of impossible to narrow down. Twenty-six winners across 15 states were...
Read MoreJan 25, 2024
Deadline Approaches for NCGA Scholarship ProgramsAuthor: Sadie Lackey
The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) is committed to the future of agriculture, and to support the next generation of leaders in agriculture, NCGA has partnered with BASF to offer scholarships to students enrolled in qualifying institutions. NCGA is proud to support three scholarship programs for three distinct audiences: Technical School/Community College Scholarship Program Five $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to students pursuing a degree at a technical school or community college. NCGA William C. Berg Academic Excellence Scholarship Program Supported by NCGA’s partnership with BASF, five $1,500 scholarships will be awarded to undergraduate students pursuing degrees in any field. Graduate Student Scholarship Program Two $2,500 scholarships will be awarded to graduate students whose area of study will benefit the corn industry. "Empowering future leaders in ag is vital for fostering a resilient rural economy in the coming years,"...
Read MoreJan 24, 2024
Consider Corn Challenge IV Spotlight: MaïzlyKey Issues: SustainabilityNew Uses
Author: Stacey Stiens
Maïzly—one of four winners in the National Corn Growers Association’s (NCGA) Consider Corn Challenge IV—has emerged as a pioneer in the realm of plant-based alternatives, particularly in the creation of a nutritious beverage derived from corn. Founded by Tim Leclercq and Marcel Van Der Merwe, the company has perfected a formula that replicates the mouthfeel of dairy milk while offering a smooth, natural taste that enhances rather than masks the flavors it accompanies. With a range of delicious flavors—original, chocolate, vanilla and strawberry—as well as a tasty custard, Maïzly has positioned itself as a game-changer in the plant-based food industry, capturing customers who cannot consume dairy milk or other plant based alternative beverages due to allergies or intolerances. The key innovation lies in Maïzly's identification of a specific corn variant that not only mimics the characteristics of dairy milk but also contributes to a unique taste profile. Unlike traditional...
Read MoreJan 22, 2024
High Quality, Good Taste & Sustainability Should Have No BordersKey Issues: SustainabilityAnimal Agriculture
Author: Stacey Stiens
The importance of collaborative ag industry partnerships is front and center in a new video funded in part by the National Corn Growers Association’s (NCGA) Market Development Action Team. The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) partnered with U.S. Pork, U.S. Soy, NCGA, the Beef Checkoff, and American Lamb to produce a visually engaging narrative that showcases how American producers' dedication to the land and animals translates into high-quality, sustainable protein worldwide. The video—Beyond Borders—aims to highlight the U.S. red meat industry's commitment to sustainability, recognizing its growing importance in global markets and meeting customer demand. "The USMEF Beyond Borders video illustrates the power of collaboration between corn and our valued partners across the meat industry. By working hand in hand with our animal ag partners, we are not just cultivating crops; we are cultivating a future where best practices and a shared commitment to the land will lead the...
Read MoreJan 18, 2024
National Corn Growers Association Expresses Disappointment with International Trade Commission Decision on Fertilizer TariffsKey Issues: Trade
Author: Bryan Goodman
The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) said today that it is deeply disappointed in a decision released by the International Trade Commission, which upholds an earlier opinion that found material injury to U.S. fertilizer companies during a time of rising on-farm fertilizer prices that went on to reach record highs. The decision comes after the U.S. Court of International Trade asked the U.S. Department of Commerce and ITC to reconsider earlier decisions they issued on the matter. “The idea that major fertilizer conglomerates were materially injured even as they were posting substantially higher profits during the time in question sounds dubious to me,” said Minnesota farmer and NCGA President Harold Wolle. “ITC’s decision flies in the face of the U.S. Court of International Trade’s request to seriously reconsider this issue and ignores the negative impact these tariffs continue to have on America’s farmers who are facing higher prices for fertilizers that are...
Read MoreJan 17, 2024
EP. 44 - Ethanol’s Past, Present and Future as a Benefit for Corn, with Scott Irwin, Bradley Schad and Julie BusseKey Issues: EthanolHigh-Octane Low-Carbon
Author: Dusty Weis
How the Renewable Fuel Standard has changed the corn industry, and what’s on the horizon for this key sector. Since its adoption in 2005, no other piece of policy has changed the corn industry more than the Renewable Fuel Standard. Ethanol has become one of the most important markets for corn in that time. But over the last couple of years, there are new developments that could be major boon for this crucial sector. So in this episode, we're going to talk with a few ethanol experts to get their perspectives on how that market has developed, where it's at today, and where they’re hoping it will go in the future. Joining us are agricultural economist Scott Irwin from the University of Illinois; Julie Busse, a member of the National Corn Growers Association ethanol team; and Bradley Schad, the CEO of the Missouri Corn Merchandising Council and Missouri Corn Growers Association. They’ll provide some important context about ethanol’s history as a fuel, and also tell...
Read MoreJan 10, 2024
New Frontiers in Agriculture – Let’s Get Ready for Launch!Author: Stacey Stiens
Time is running out to secure your spot at 2024’s Commodity Classic in Houston, Texas! Early bird pricing ends on January 12, so make sure to register now to take advantage of the discounted rates for National Corn Growers Association members. This year's event promises to be bigger and better than ever, with exciting activities planned from February 28 to March 2. New this year: Wednesday Welcome Reception kicks off on February 28 from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. Held on the trade show floor, this event will provide a unique opportunity to enjoy food and beverages while getting a sneak peek at your favorite exhibitors. Houston features the largest number of booths and trade show space ever seen at Commodity Classic. With two levels of trade show exhibits, attendees can explore the latest and greatest in agricultural technology. Two stages will also host can't-miss education and presentations, offering valuable insights for everyone in the industry. For those looking to...
Read MoreCorn Economy
NCGA's Lead Economist Krista Swanson's reports and articles can be found here.
Ethanol
Corn ethanol is critical for a sustainable, clean energy future.
A Commitment to the Future
For media inquiries contact Bryan Goodman, goodman@ncga.com