In The News

Mar 29, 2023

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Michael Granché

Last week, the U.S.A. Poultry Egg Export Council (USAPEEC) held their annual Strategic Planning Conference in Tokyo, Japan. Bringing together USAPEEC’s global staff and industry representatives from across the sector, the conference enables participants to analyze opportunities for expansion and barriers to market access, and then formulate strategy to increase and create additional demand for American poultry and egg products. Representing National Corn Grower Association’s Market Development Action Team was Michigan Corn Growers Association Vice President John Delmotte and NCGA Market Development Manager Michael Granché. On Thursday, Delmotte and Granché provided a presentation that highlighted the value of partnerships, highlighted goals and progress outlined within NCGA’s Sustainability Report, and illustrated how USAPEEC and NCGA have worked together through projects their Chicken, Egg, and Turkey Buyer’s Guides.   “Most farmers think that our corn is exported as grain to...

Oct 26, 2022

Key Issues: TradeAnimal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

Viewers of Cattlemen to Cattlemen on RFD-TV will get a firsthand look at the value of corn and beef exports at the Port of New Orleans. The episode will re-air on Tuesday, November 1 at 8:30 PM ET. National Corn Growers Association's (NCGA) Market Development Action Team (MDAT) funded this initiative. In 2021, beef and pork exports accounted for 537 million bushels of corn usage.   “The U.S. is the world’s leading exporter of corn and when you pair that with the success of exports of the beef industry, it is an important demand driver for corn farmers,” said National Corn Growers Association President and Minnesota farmer Tom Haag. “Being at the Port of New Orleans for this episode was a great backdrop because of the amount of agricultural goods and product that goes out of this port.”   Panel participants include Tom Haag, NCGA President and Minnesota farmer; National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) President and Minnesota farmer Don Schiefelbein; NCGA Market Development...

Sep 19, 2022

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

Later this month, viewers of Cattlemen to Cattlemen on RFD-TV will get a firsthand look at the value of corn and beef exports at the Port of New Orleans. In 2021, beef and port exports accounted for 537 million bushels of corn usage.   “The U.S. is the world’s leading exporter of corn and when you pair that with the success of exports of the beef industry, it is an important demand driver for corn farmers,” said National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) incoming President and Minnesota farmer Tom Haag. “Being at the Port of New Orleans for this episode was a great backdrop because of the amount of agricultural goods and product that goes out of this port.”   Panel participants include Tom Haag, incoming NCGA President and Minnesota farmer; National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) President and Minnesota farmer Don Schiefelbein; NCGA Market Development Action Team Chair and Colorado corn and beef producer Troy Schneider; and Kyla Hamilton, a Texas corn and beef producer who...

Jul 18, 2022

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) just recently updated its export numbers and the value to corn and soybean farmers. The study shows in 2021, beef and pork exports accounted for 537 million bushels of corn usage, which equals $2.94 billion (estimated using an average corn price of $5.48 bushel).   “The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) works closely with USMEF and other domestic and export partners to help drive demand and bring value back to corn farmers,” said NCGA Market Development Action Team Chair and Colorado farmer Troy Schneider. “The animal ag industry is the largest user of U.S. corn, and it’s important to collaborate and partner with the industry to expand and grow these markets.”   Other key findings from the 2021 report include:   Beef and pork exports account for 3.4 million tons of distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) Pork and beef exports contributed 12% of bushel value The market value of beef and pork exports to U.S. DDGS equals...

Jun 9, 2022

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Michael Granché

June is National Dairy Month, and we can’t think of a better way to celebrate than to focus on the relationship between the corn and dairy industries! Did you know that dairy cattle consume 30% of dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGs), a co-product of the ethanol production process? In 2021, DDGs used 1,055 million bushels of corn.   The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) engages with the dairy industry through the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy, who recently hosted the 2022 Dairy Sustainability Alliance Spring Meeting in Oak Brook, Illinois. NCGA’s Market Development Manager Michael Granché attended the conference where participants discussed sustainability in a transitioning world away from COVID-19 restrictions, the FARM ES data model, the intersection between high tech and high touch, driving profits with purpose, global methane pledges and cultivating a culture of social responsibility.    “It was great to engage in such high-energy conversations around what...

Feb 3, 2022

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

This week, the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) participated in the Cattle Industry Convention & NCBA Tradeshow to engage with corn’s largest animal ag consumer, beef cattle. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Annual Cattle Industry and Trade Show, #CattleCon22, was attended by thousands in the ag industry, including representatives of the National Corn Growers Association who were on hand to talk about beef and corn’s sustainability story.    “The beef industry consumes over 1.25 billion bushels of corn annually,” said NCGA Market Development Director Sarah McKay. “It’s important for us to engage with our partners and talk to them about not only some of the exciting research and projects we are working on in the feed space but also the sustainable synergies between beef and corn production. We have a great story to tell in this space, and it’s important to continue working together to share that narrative.”   NCGA hosted a Learning Lounge session, “Sizzlin’...

Oct 19, 2021

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

There are many benefits to including corn in your pet’s diet, but have you ever wondered about the benefits that your cat or dog brings to the corn industry? A comprehensive study unpacked the $30 billion U.S. retail pet food industry, thanks to the Institute for Feed Education and Research (IFEEDER), the Pet Food Institute and the North American Renderers Association.   The study found that corn and corn gluten meal are the top two most used plant-based ingredients in pet food products. Corn is the dominant plant-based carbohydrate at 1,283,674 tons, and corn gluten meal is the dominant plant-based protein ingredient at 476,649 tons used on an annual basis. Thanks to Fido and Fluffy, the corn industry moved 1,958,061 tons of product, valued at a total of $438 million.   “Farmers and farm-product processors sell $6.9 billion worth of products to pet food manufacturers every year that are used as ingredients. Sales made by farmers and processors of farm products to pet food...

Oct 15, 2021

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

Beef and Corn: Working Together in a Sustainable System was the focus of a recent episode on the National Cattlemen Beef Association’s (NCBA) series Cattlemen to Cattlemen on RFD-TV. Panelists discuss sustainability practices on their farms, the benefits of next-generation feed products, how the ethanol industry has impacted corn and beef producers, and more. The episode was filmed at the Certified Angus Beef headquarters in Wooster, Ohio with panelists from the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), NCBA, and Certified Angus Beef (CAB). The episode aired on Tuesday, September 28th on RFD-TV at 8:30 PM ET.   “It is important for corn farmers and beef producers to work together so both industries remain sustainable, both environmentally and economically, for the years to come,” said NCGA Chairman John Linder. “Beef cattle is one of our largest customers. One out of four bushels of added corn demand is due to beef and pork exports, with the beef industry providing $5.7 billion...

Sep 28, 2021

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Dusty Weis

NCBA’s Colin Woodall and CAB’s Nicole Erceg discuss corn partnerships and how you might be cooking steak wrong.   After a long day in the field, there's no reward like a tender juicy, corn-fed cut of steak.   And it's made all the sweeter by the fact that the US beef industry is one of the largest consumers of American corn.   So, in this episode, we're going to talk to two beef industry leaders, Collin Woodall from the National Cattlemen's Beef Association and Nicole Erceg from Certified Angus Beef, about how corn growers can be good partners to the beef industry, what it means to meet modern consumer expectations, and how you might be cooking your steaks wrong.   As Nicole notes, sustainability is a team sport. And with consumer expectations evolving year in and year out, close partnerships between corn growers and beef producers are more important than ever before.   Colin shared his favorite recipe for Grilled Cowboy Steaks.   And Nicole invites you to: Access...

Sep 22, 2021

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

This week, the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) is highlighting the benefits of corn in pet food and packaging opportunities at the Petfood Forum in Kansas City, Missouri. This is the pet food industry’s largest event, with exhibitors and attendees from various backgrounds including research and development, technology and packaging providers, ingredient suppliers and retailers. The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) and the Kansas Corn Growers Association had a booth at the event to interact with these stakeholders.   “It’s important for us to engage with the pet food industry and audience, because a recent study found that retail pet food is a $30 billion industry, with corn and corn gluten meal as the top two most used plant-based ingredients in pet food products,” said NCGA Market Development Manager Michael Granché. “This was an opportunity for us to not only discuss the benefits of corn in pet food, but also talk about the role corn can play beyond the bowl in...

Sep 21, 2021

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

Beef and Corn: Working Together in a Sustainable System is the topic of the upcoming panel show on the National Cattlemen Beef Association’s (NCBA) series Cattlemen to Cattlemen on RFD-TV. Panelists will discuss sustainability practices on their farms, the benefits of next-generation feed products, how the ethanol industry has impacted corn and beef producers, and more. The episode was filmed at the Certified Angus Beef headquarters in Wooster, Ohio with panelists from the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), NCBA, and Certified Angus Beef (CAB). The episode will air on Tuesday, September 28th on RFD-TV at 8:30 PM ET.   “It is important for corn farmers and beef producers to work together so both industries remain sustainable, both environmentally and economically, for the years to come,” said NCGA President John Linder. “Beef cattle is one of our largest customers. One out of four bushels of added corn demand is due to beef and pork exports, with the beef industry providing...

Sep 14, 2021

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

A recent study by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) indicates that U.S. beef and pork exports added 41 cents per bushel to the value of corn in 2020. That’s 11.5% of the average annual price of $3.52/bushel, and the overall value of red meat exports was $5.8 billion.   “Considering everything that happened in 2020, it is encouraging to see how red meat exports continued to show a strong return for U.S. corn farmers,” said NCGA Market Development Action Team (MDAT) Chair and Iowa farmer Bob Hemesath. “The animal ag industry is our largest customer. It’s important to continue to partner with USMEF and expand and grow these markets.”   Key findings from the study, which utilizes 2020 export data, include:   Beef and pork exports used 530.5 million bushels of corn. At an average annual price of $3.52/bushel, beef and pork exports accounted for $1.87 billion in market value to the corn industry. Beef and pork exports also used 3.03 million tons of distiller’s dried grains...

Aug 18, 2021

Key Issues: SustainabilityAnimal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) participated in the recent National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) 2021 Cattlemen’s Convention and NCBA Trade Show, engaging with leaders of the organization to share corn's sustainability story. NCGA President John Linder and NCGA CEO Jon Doggett were invited to present during NCBA’s executive committee meeting to share NCGA’s recently unveiled sustainability goals and report.   Members of the Market Development Action Team (MDAT) had additional meetings throughout the convention with NCBA and Cattlemen Beef Board (CBB) leadership.   “It is very important to engage with our animal ag partners, especially cattle producers as beef cattle are one of our largest customers,” said Bob Hemesath, Iowa farmer and MDAT Chair. “It was great to share our work and talk about opportunities to partner together in the future. We have built a great relationship with NCBA, and I look forward to continuing to collaborate with cattle...

Aug 11, 2021

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

Beef and Corn: Working Together in a Sustainable System is the topic of the upcoming panel show on the National Cattlemen Beef Association’s (NCBA) series Cattlemen to Cattlemen on RFD-TV. Panelists will discuss sustainability practices on their farms, the benefits of next-generation feed products, how the ethanol industry has impacted corn and beef producers, and more. The episode was filmed at the Certified Angus Beef headquarters in Wooster, Ohio with panelists from the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), NCBA, and Certified Angus Beef (CAB).   “It is important for corn farmers and beef producers to work together so both industries remain sustainable, both environmentally and economically, for the years to come,” said NCGA President John Linder. “Beef cattle is one of our largest customers. One out of four bushels of added corn demand is due to beef and pork exports, with the beef industry providing $5.7 billion in corn value and consuming 1.2 billion bushels of grain....

Jul 22, 2021

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

This week, National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) Market Development Manager Michael Granché attended the Chicken Marketing Summit, hosted by the National Chicken Council in Fernandina Beach, Fla.   Participants covered a wide array of topics spanning animal protein demand to trade outlook reports and from sustainable poultry production to a panel discussion on broiler welfare; all while defining opportunities for post-pandemic success.    “As more organizations and sectors within the agriculture industry continue to set their focus on developing sustainability goals, it becomes increasingly more important to cultivate and lean into partnerships, so that together we can tackle our sustainability goals successfully while feeding an exponentially growing population. It was great to meet with industry folks again in person and to help tell corn’s story,” said Granché.   Through this partnership, NCGA is promoting poultry product exports while reminding organizations that corn...

May 25, 2021

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

May is National Beef Month, and there’s no better way to celebrate than to recognize our largest animal ag customer and throw a sirloin on the grill. One out of four bushels of added corn demand is due to beef and pork exports. With such demand, NCGA recognizes the value of industry partnership with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the U.S. Meat Export Federation. NCGA has continued to be the sole sponsor of NCBA’s Cattlemen’s Education Series, a partnership that strives to bring the latest and greatest industry information to producers while highlighting the value that corn and corn products, such as DDGs, bring to beef rations.   “Not only do corn growers benefit from the beef cattle industry’s consumption of corn, but adding corn into the diet promotes faster growth, increases feed efficiency in the rate of daily gain and produces steaks with a higher marble score,” said Market Development Action Team Chair Bob Hemesath.   With more than 20 million beef cattle...

Apr 8, 2021

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

April 11 is National Pet Day. There are many benefits to including corn in your pet’s diet, but have you ever wondered about the benefits that your cat or dog brings to the corn industry? In November a comprehensive study unpacked the $30 billion U.S. retail pet food industry, thanks to the Institute for Feed Education and Research (IFEEDER), the Pet Food Institute and the North American Renderers Association.   The study found that corn and corn gluten meal are the top two most used plant-based ingredients in pet food products. Corn is the dominant plant-based carbohydrate at 1,283,674 tons, and corn gluten meal is the dominant plant-based protein ingredient at 476,649 tons used on an annual basis. Thanks to Fido and Fluffy, the corn industry moved 1,958,061 tons of product, valued at a total of $438 million.   “Farmers and farm-product processors sell $6.9 billion worth of products to pet food manufacturers every year that are used as ingredients. Sales made by farmers and...

Apr 5, 2021

Key Issues: EthanolAnimal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

Opportunities for new corn fractionation technologies at dry mills create value by further separating out the various components of corn to allow differential utilization of the subsequent product streams. Feed rations and specific ingredients for animals can be optimized by separating corn into its most valuable components.   Dried Distillers Grains with Solubles (DDGs) are a co-product of the ethanol production process and used 1.075 billion bushels of corn in 2020. DDGs are a valuable feed ingredient for cattle, swine, poultry, and aquaculture as they are rich in the protein, fat, minerals, yeast, and vitamin that animals need.   DDGs were never initially engineered, as they were an accidental discovery derived from the ethanol manufacturing process. As these next generation DDGs products become increasingly competitive in their nutritional composition, ethanol manufacturers have the opportunity to diversify their portfolio, plugging into newly created revenue sources. If an...

Feb 25, 2021

Key Issues: TradeAnimal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

Exports of U.S. corn-fed poultry and egg products are one key area of future demand that the Market Development Action Team (MDAT) at NCGA focuses on. The team has funded projects with the USA Poultry and Egg Export Council (USAPEEC), most recently including an economic study on the value of poultry exports to U.S. corn and updates to improved versions of buyer’s guides. The economic study found that poultry exports add $0.28 of value per bushel of corn, which is approximately $4.1 billion in revenue. The new and improved buyer guides for chicken, turkey, and eggs were digitized and updated, including a section on the value and sustainability of U.S. corn. These guides play a large role in securing value back to the U.S. corn grower as they are used at almost all of USAPEEC’s international trade and marketing activities.   The partnership with USAPEEC is one poised to enable success for both poultry producers and U.S. corn growers through the support of NCGA’s Market Development...

Feb 3, 2021

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Dusty Weis

The U.S. pork herd consumed over 1.2 billion bushels of corn in 2020. Not only does that make the pork industry a key customer segment for NCGA’s growers, but many of the same trade and sustainability issues that we grapple with in corn impact them as well.   So in this episode, NCGA CEO Jon Doggett chats with Bill Even, CEO of the National Pork Board, to review some of the cooperative efforts the two groups have underway, the challenges they face and the opportunities that await if they work together.   They also recount some of their favorite mouthwatering pork dishes. Spoiler alert: bacon is involved.       Direct Share Link Transcript   Bill Even: We've got producers out there that are paying the corn checkoff, they're paying the soybean checkoff, and they're paying the pork checkoff, and what they're expecting out of their respective boards and their respective staffs of these organizations is that they work together and share those checkoff dollars around and...

Jan 26, 2021

Key Issues: TradeAnimal AgricultureNew Uses

Author: Julie Busse

Nearly 70-percent of annual corn demand is covered under the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) Market Development Action Team (MDAT) portfolio. From exports to animal agriculture to new uses of corn, the team is focused on growing and driving demand for America’s corn farmers.   “This team had a lot of wins in 2020, and we will continue that momentum into our planning for 2021 and beyond,” said MDAT Chair and Iowa farmer Bob Hemesath. “I look forward to leading the team and tackling the challenge that faces us – how to grind more corn. Our team's portfolio includes initiatives like the Consider Corn Challenge, which we will be announcing details on our third open-innovation challenge soon; the Cattlemen’s Education Series, a virtual program that focuses on issues that impact cattle producers such as protein and energy supplementation; and Trade School, a joint venture with the U.S. Grains Council (USGC), in which we are able to give our members the tools they need to be...

Nov 17, 2020

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

This fair season, the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) hosted a virtual contest to give 4-H and FFA members an opportunity to showcase their show animals and the benefits of using corn in the feed ration.    “There’s a lot of work that goes into caring for livestock, and with many local, county and state fairs being canceled this year, we wanted to celebrate the hard work that goes into a fair season with this contest,” said NCGA Market Development Manager Michael Granché. “This was an opportunity to get the next generation of farmers and livestock producers to incorporate and learn about the benefits of a corn-fed diet.”   Three winners were selected based on social media engagement, photo quality and the post text.  The first-place winner will win $300, second place will receive $200, and third place will get $100.   The following posts were the winners of the contest:   First-Place: “Sheep love corn and find it very palatable. It covers their nutrient...

Nov 9, 2020

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

There are many benefits to including corn in your pet’s diet, but have you ever wondered about the benefits that your cat or dog brings to the corn industry? Fortunately, there is a new, comprehensive study available aimed at unpacking the $30 billion U.S. retail pet food industry, thanks to the Institute for Feed Education and Research (IFEEDER), the Pet Food Institute and the North American Renderers Association.   The study found that corn and corn gluten meal are the top two most used plant-based ingredients in pet food products. Corn is the dominant plant-based carbohydrate at 1,283,674 tons, and corn gluten meal is the dominant plant-based protein ingredient at 476,649 tons used on an annual basis. Thanks to Fido and Fluffy, the corn industry moved 1,958,061 tons of product, valued at a total of $438 million.   “Farmers and farm-product processors sell $6.9 billion worth of products to pet food manufacturers every year that are used as ingredients. Sales made by farmers...

Nov 2, 2020

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

The poultry industry alone consumes over 1,200 million bushels of corn, making our feathered friends the largest consumer of corn grain within the animal agriculture sector. As the top export product by volume for the U.S. meat market, it’s no surprise that poultry exports add $0.28 of value per corn bushel, equating to $4.1 billion in revenue.   “The USA Poultry and Egg Export Council (USAPEEC) is excited to announce that our new and improved buyer’s guides have officially launched,” says Shelby Watson, USAPEEC Manager of Allied Industry Relations. “NCGA’s initiative to update our buyer’s guides came just in time as the Covid-19 pandemic rocked the world and highlighted the need for updated digital resources. The existing guides for chicken, turkey, and eggs were PDF resources, originally designed in 1996, detailing U.S. poultry product offerings and have been used at almost all of our trade and marketing activities to ease the buying process for our foreign buyers around the...

Oct 28, 2020

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Dean Meyer

This editorial was submitted to NCGA by Dean Meyer, director of the Iowa Corn Growers Association and secretary-treasurer of the U.S. Meat Export Federation.   In many ways, this year’s harvest has been like any other – myself and my family working long days racing against the clock, against the weather, and against the many obstacles farmers typically face when getting the crops in each fall.   Of course, 2020 is a bit different. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected every person and every industry, including agriculture.   The good news for corn farmers is that our biggest customer, America’s livestock industry, continues to succeed in the global market – despite COVID. Exporting red meat products around the world helps increase demand for beef, pork and lamb, which in turn creates demand for corn and other livestock feed.   Corn producers, soybean producers, hog producers and cattle producers – together we make up one heck of a team.   Supporting this team are...

Oct 9, 2020

Key Issues: SustainabilityAnimal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

Sustainability and profitability go hand-in-hand and that’s been the focus of a partnership between the National Pork Board (NPB), United Soybean Board (USB) and National Corn Growers Association (NCGA).  Two years ago, the three organizations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on a sustainability research platform that will benefit all three organizations and their producers.   Since the MOU was signed, the groups have been collaborating on sustainability goals and initiatives, as well as a feed sustainability blueprint project. This project intends to encourage on-farm and facility outcome-based goals that contribute to watershed and sustainability goals. The objective is to establish practices, definitions, and standards on how to measure and track the sustainability of feed ingredients, primarily soybean meal and corn, with a focus on water quality, water quantity, climate resilience and wildlife habitat.   “America’s pig farmers are committed to producing pork and...

Oct 6, 2020

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) is rolling out another round of the Cattlemen’s Education Series (CES), focusing on protein and energy supplementation. NCGA is the sole sponsor of the CES, which is designed to provide resources to NCBA state and breed affiliates through grants, which allow them to extend outstanding educational experiences. The mission of the CES is to provide cutting-edge information to beef producers that contribute to increased knowledge, profitability, and sustainability. With the need for virtual events this year, NCGA and NCBA have pivoted CES efforts toward a virtual webinar series.    The beef cattle industry consumes more than 1.2 billion bushels of corn. One out of four bushels of added corn demand is due to beef and pork exports, with the beef industry providing $5.7 billion in corn value. DDGs account for nearly 8 percent of total domestic corn usage.   “Supporting programs like the CES...

Sep 28, 2020

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

There are many benefits of using corn in pet food, but the opportunity to utilize the corn kernel doesn’t end there. Corn is also a useful ingredient for the packaging of pet food. The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) shared that message with representatives from 40 countries at Petfood Forum CONNECT.   “Being able to share our story and engage with members of the pet food industry to let them know the versatility of corn is important to growing and expanding our reach within the industry,” said Market Development Manager Michael Granché. “When you have conversations with attendees, you sort of see the light bulb go off, and they connect the dots and realize the variety of ways corn can be utilized.”   NCGA sponsored an educational video, Rethinking the Role of Corn in the Pet Food Industry, which was a part of the ePoster series during the event, showcasing myths, the versatility of corn, and the nutritional benefits of corn in pet food.   “Last year, the Pet Food...

Sep 22, 2020

Key Issues: Animal AgricultureNew Uses

Author: Julie Busse

The economic headwinds corn farmers faced heading into this year were exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic. The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) is actively working to rebuild demand by exploring new incremental opportunities for America’s corn farmers. In partnership with AimPoint Research and our primary customer segments, NCGA is developing a short-term demand growth plan that sets the table for long-term success.   “Every day, our main focus is to drive demand and find markets for America’s corn farmers to ensure they are successful year after year,” said NCGA President Kevin Ross. “I don’t have to tell you, this year is unlike any other I’ve experienced in my career, which is why we have to think outside the box and deliver quick wins for corn farmers. That’s why we’ve engaged with AimPoint and our key partners to help us optimize our demand building efforts moving forward.”   The process of evaluating potential market opportunities started with an intelligence...

Sep 16, 2020

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

Beef and Corn: Working Together in a Sustainable System is the topic of the upcoming panel show on the National Cattlemen Beef Association’s series Cattlemen to Cattlemen on RFD-TV. Panelists will discuss sustainability practices on their farms, the benefits of next-generation feed products, how the ethanol industry has impacted corn and beef producers, and more.   “1.25 billion bushels of corn plus the majority of distillers grains goes towards feeding beef cattle,” said NCGA President Kevin Ross. “Adding corn into the cattle diet increases feed efficiency reflected in the rate of daily gain. It also promotes faster growth, reduces days to finish, and produces steaks with a higher marble score.”   One out of four bushels of added corn demand is due to beef and pork, with the beef industry providing $5.7 billion in corn value. DDGs account for nearly 8 percent of total domestic corn usage.   “It’s important for us to collaborate with our animal ag partners because they are...

Sep 15, 2020

Key Issues: EthanolAnimal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

Opportunities for new corn fractionation technologies at dry mills create value by further separating out the various components of corn to allow differential utilization of the subsequent product streams. Feed for animals is optimized by separating corn into its most valuable components.   Dried Distillers Grains with Solubles (DDGs) are a co-product of the ethanol production process and used 1.2 billion bushels of corn in 2019. DDGs are a feed ingredient for cattle, swine, poultry, and aquaculture, rich in protein, fat, minerals, yeast, and vitamins.   DDGs were never initially engineered, as they were an accidental discovery derived from the ethanol manufacturing process. As these next generation DDGs products become increasingly competitive in their nutritional composition, ethanol manufacturers have the opportunity to diversify their portfolio, plugging into newly created revenue sources. If an ethanol plant is experiencing a lull in liquid fuel demand, they could offset...

Sep 2, 2020

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) is the sole sponsor of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Cattlemen’s Education Series (CES), engaging with cattle producers on production efficiency, profitability and sustainability. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many grant-funded in-person events have been canceled, but fortunately, corn and cattle have been able to innovate new solutions aimed at connecting agriculturalists with the latest industry information.   “With many beef industry meetings being canceled due to Covid-19, producers like me are missing out on many of the educational opportunities presented at those meetings,” said former Nebraska corn producer and beef feeder Scott Schaneman. “However, the Cattlemen’s Webinar Series allows me to still be in the know with information that can help make my operation more profitable and sustainable. We appreciate the National Corn Growers for sponsoring events like these!”   So far this year, there have been 14...

Aug 25, 2020

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

Whether your local, county or state fair was canceled or held in person, you can still submit pictures of you and your livestock to the National Corn Growers Association’s (NCGA) Farm to Virtual Fair contest. The contest focuses on the benefits of using corn in the feed ration. You can submit entries through Monday, November 2, 2020.   “The contest is a fun way to engage with the next generation and get students to think about what a corn-powered diet can do for their livestock,” said NCGA Market Development Manager Michael Granché. “There’s a lot that goes into caring for and showing livestock, and we are celebrating the hard work that’s put into livestock shows through this contest.”   The first-place winner will win $300, second place will receive $200, and third place will get $100. Winners will be announced by Monday, November 16, 2020.    To enter the contest, you must follow NCGA (@corngrowers) on Instagram, tag NCGA in the post and use the hashtag #MyCornFedBarn....

Aug 18, 2020

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

Red meat exports added 12 percent of bushel value to the U.S. corn farmer in 2019. The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) recently updated a study on the market value of red meat exports. At an average of $3.75 per bushel, $0.46 is from red meat exports. The study indicated that without red meat exports, corn growers would have lost $6.4 billion in corn revenue in 2019. Other highlights from the updated study include:   Value of Red Meat Exports’ Feed Use of Corn and Soybeans In 2019, U.S. beef and pork exports used 480 million bushels of corn. Corn revenue generated by pork exports totaled $1.8 billion (480 million bushels x average annual price of $3.75/bushel). Beef and pork exports also used about 3 million tons of distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) in 2019 at an annual average price of $137/ton. This generated $411.8 million in revenue for ethanol mills’ co-products. The projected market value of red meat exports to U.S. corn from 2020-2029 is $23.1...

Aug 12, 2020

Key Issues: Animal AgricultureCOVID-19Production

Author: Julie Busse

The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) is partnering with Farm Journal, the Cattlemen’s Beef Board, National Pork Board and United Soybean Board to discuss how commodities are adapting to a pandemic world.   NCGA President and Iowa farmer Kevin Ross, Beef Checkoff Chair and Idaho cattleman Jared Brackett, Missouri farmer and Pork Checkoff President David Newman and Soy Checkoff Chairman and Arkansas farmer Jim Carroll will represent each checkoff organization on the panel.   The panelists will dive into the challenges each commodity has faced due to the COVID-19 pandemic and short- and long-term solutions moving forward. Viewers will have the opportunity to ask the panelists questions at the end. The free event is Wednesday, August 19, 2020, at 2:00 p.m. CDT. You can register here.   Farm Journal broadcaster Clinton Griffiths will host the virtual roundtable.     

Jul 14, 2020

Key Issues: EthanolSustainabilityTradeAnimal AgricultureBiotechnologyConsumer EngagementHigh-Octane Low-CarbonNew UsesProduction

Author: Mark Lambert

Despite marketing and economic challenges and a pandemic, farmer leaders of National Corn Growers Association continue to advocate and work to improve the lot of the nation’s family corn farmers. Some of the steps being taken are covered in a new  2020 mid-year report  released online today.   “2020 began with reason for optimism in our industry. The signing of the USMCA trade deal, emerging corn purchases by China, a successful challenge to EPA granting RFS waivers and approval of year-round sales of E-15 had us all looking toward an economic rebound. Then the Coronavirus pandemic stunned the world,” said Kevin Ross, NCGA president. Through it all, corn farmers continue to go to work.  They answer the bell, responding by putting us on track to produce an abundant crop once again.”   You can view the report here.    

Jun 15, 2020

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) is kicking-off summer with a new contest, focusing on the benefits of using corn in the feed ration. The contest starts Monday, June 15, 2020, and runs through Monday, November 2, 2020.   “With so many unknowns this year, we wanted to give students participating in their local, county or state 4-H and FFA livestock shows something to look forward to,” said Nebraska farmer and Market Development Action Team Chair Dan Wesely. “That’s why we are calling this the Farm to Virtual Fair contest. Whether you’re able to attend in-person or not, we want to recognize the hard work that goes into caring for and showing livestock.”   To enter the contest, you must follow NCGA (@corngrowers) on Instagram, tag NCGA in the post and use the hashtag #MyCornFedBarn. Participants can enter a photo or video, explaining why they use corn in their feed ration.   “This is an opportunity to engage the next generation of farmers and livestock producers to...

Apr 27, 2020

Key Issues: Animal AgricultureCOVID-19

Despite the current challenges due to COVID-19, U.S. pork and beef exports are on a record pace through February. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) recently released the data, which showed U.S. pork exports posting the third-largest month on record and U.S. beef exports experiencing double-digit gains, year-over-year.   According to the data, February pork exports were up 46 percent from a year ago, and U.S. beef exports were up 18 percent from a year ago.   “Even as COVID-19 disrupted export markets, demand for U.S. red meats remained strong,” says Dean Meyer, director of the Iowa Corn Growers Association and secretary-treasurer of USMEF. “Around the world, consumer demand for high-quality red meat protein is growing and that includes a variety of meats.”   Meyer adds that USMEF is working closely with industry trade partners and the U.S. government in a concerted effort to keep the red meat supply chain from being disrupted in...

Mar 19, 2020

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

Today, March 19, is National Poultry Day! Consuming nearly 1.2 billion bushels annually, poultry is one of the top consumers of US corn. With poultry exports adding $.28 of value per bushel, a total of $4.1 billion in revenue, that’s nothing to squawk at. Whether you like them grilled, fried, or pecking around in your front yard; let’s all shake our tail feathers with some hen-thusiasm and celebrate these corn-converting protein machines! Learn more about corn and animal agriculture here.

Feb 12, 2020

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Annual Cattle Industry and Trade Show, #CattleCon20, was attended last week by nearly 9,000 in the ag industry including representatives of the National Corn Growers Association addressing the next generation of feed products.   NCGA Corn Board Members Dennis McNinch, a Kansas farmer, and Gary Porter, a Missouri farmer, along with staff members Sarah McKay and Michael Granché, attended the convention in San Antonio, Texas.   “The beef industry consumes roughly 1,250 million bushels of corn annually,” said NCGA Market Development Director Sarah McKay. “It’s important for us to engage with our partners and talk to them about some of the exciting research and projects we are working on in the feed space.”   NCGA hosted a Learning Lounge session on Friday afternoon, talking to attendees about the relationship between corn and cattle and how next-generation feed products, such as HP-DDGS and residual fiber and solubles from advanced corn...

Feb 4, 2020

Key Issues: EthanolSustainabilityTradeAnimal AgricultureBiotechnologyConsumer EngagementFarm PolicyNew UsesProductionResearch

Author: Mark Lambert

The National Corn Growers Association’s Ann ual Report for the 2019 fiscal year is now available online.  The report highlights memorable events and victories accomplished in a year characterized by weather and policy challenges.   “NCGA was in some pretty amazing positions in 2019. From sharing the stage with President Trump to having a beer with the Coors family after the Super Bowl attack on corn sweetener,” said 2019 NCGA First Vice President Kevin Ross from Iowa. “We are constantly prepared to engage, and we are looking for new allies and new conversations to represent corn growers better.”    Through unruly weather, flooding, sluggish markets and trade disruptions, NCGA members kept moving forward together to reach long-term, strategic goals to improve prices and the overall future of the industry. As the year ended NCGA’s grassroots efforts resulted in several major trade victories, a strong support system through the farm bill, and more opportunity for E15 and other...

Nov 27, 2019

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

Did you know the average American eats roughly 16 pounds of turkey each year and 46-million turkeys are eaten each Thanksgiving?   The poultry industry is the second-largest consumer of corn in the animal-ag sector and adds $.28 of value per bushel. That equates to $4.1 billion in revenue.   Todd Gleason, the host of WILL-AM-580’s Closing Market Report and Commodity Week at the University of Illinois Extension, compiled a list of fun turkey facts for Thanksgiving. You can listen to his audio report to learn more by clicking here.   To see more corn specific poultry facts, click here.

Jul 15, 2019

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Beth Musgrove

By Jesse Fulton, M.S., Director of Producer Education   With the beef industry going through continuous changes and advancements, it is important cattlemen and women across the country are “in the know”, which is where the Cattlemen’s Education Series (CES) comes into play. This partnership between the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) is designed to provide resources to NCBA state and breed affiliates through a grant which allows them to extend outstanding educational experiences locally. The mission of the CES is to provide cutting-edge information to beef producers that contributes to increased knowledge, profitability and sustainability.   With approximately 32 percent of the Nation’s 2018 corn crop being utilized as animal feed, this partnership is important as it promotes corn products and by-products utilized in the cattle industry.   “I understand the importance of being able to deliver a quality product for...

Jun 18, 2019

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Mary Quigley

The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) is pleased to announce Michael Granchè is joining the organization as market development manager. Granchè will serve as a contact for NCGA’s animal agriculture partners and will work on export and transportation issues.   “Michael’s leadership, experience, professionalism and background are a great fit for this position,” said NCGA Market Development Director Sarah McKay. “In this position, Michael will be an integral part of the team, providing staff support for the Market Access Action Team and liaising with many of our trade, transportation and animal agriculture industry stakeholders.”   Granchè was a policy and communications intern at the National Association of Wheat Growers in Washington, D.C. in 2016 and 2018. During his internship, he attended Commodity Classic, went to congressional hearings and analyzed policy that impacted the wheat industry. He was also a communications and marketing intern at Virginia Tech and has...

May 28, 2019

Key Issues: TradeAnimal Agriculture

Author: Cathryn Wojcicki

The U.S. Meat Export Federation held their annual Spring Conference last week in Kansas City. Staff and members from the National Corn Growers Association and state corn associations were present. The conference featured updates on the positive growth of red meat exports and included presentations on U.S. trade related challenges and opportunities, an update from United States Department of Agriculture Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Ted McKinney, country and region-specific marketing efforts and the global impact of African Swine Fever (ASF).   “There were a number of items on the trade front discussed at the meeting, including Japan’s lifting of longstanding restrictions on U.S. beef exports,” said Director of Market Development Sarah McKay. “That equates to $23 million in incremental value to corn growers in the U.S. Updates from other markets included, Mexico removing retaliatory duties on U.S. pork and Canada eliminating a 10 percent duty on...

Apr 3, 2019

Key Issues: SustainabilityAnimal Agriculture

Author: Mark Lambert

The National Corn Growers Association participated in the U.S. Roundtable for Sustainable Beef’s Feed Transparency Summit at McDonalds Headquarters in Chicago last week. Representatives from the major grain aggregators, feed yards, packers, brands and retailers, as well as non-governmental organizations (NGOs) were also present.   “Continuing to be a part of these conversations is extremely important, as corn and DDGs are a primary component of rations fed to beef cattle,” said NCGA First Vice President and Iowa farmer Kevin Ross. “The meeting was the first step towards exploring opportunities to pilot a collaborative project between the grain and beef value chains to improve transparency. Consumers are asking more and more questions about where their food comes from. The summit brought together stakeholders from across the beef supply chain to discuss that.”   Each group in attendance had the opportunity to expand upon the challenges and opportunities within their industry and...

Mar 26, 2019

Key Issues: EthanolAnimal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) held the first Distillers Feed Products Nutrition Roundtable, bringing together animal ag partners, animal nutrition experts and ethanol technology providers to discuss the changing number and nutrient profile of distillers feed products.   “Our goal is to start a meaningful dialogue across segments of the supply chain,” said NCGA Director of Market Development Sarah McKay. “This is just one of the many steps to better understanding how new corn fractionation technologies are being deployed in dry mills in the U.S.  These technologies create value by separating out the various components of corn to allow improved utilization of the subsequent product streams.  While this technology has a lot of potential for early adopters and could increase corn grind, it will require a change in how the value chain views and uses the products of ethanol plants.  Gathering stakeholder input and starting a dialog early should help the rollout of this...

Feb 21, 2019

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Julie Busse

The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) partnered with the U.S. Meat Export Federation to update a study on the value of red meat exports to domestic U.S. corn growers. The original study was conducted in 2015. In 2018, the study showed beef and pork exports used a combined total of 14.9 million tons of corn and DDGS, which equates to an additional 459.7 million bushels of corn produced – an increase of 29 percent over the 2015 projections.   Other highlights from the updated study:   Since 2015, one in every four bushels of added feed demand for corn is due to beef and pork exports. About 11 percent of the price of corn this year will be derived from red meat exports. Red meat exports’ impact on corn price is 39 cents per bushel (based on the annual average price of $3.53 per bushel). There would be a loss of $5.7 billion in corn value without red meat exports.   “It’s important to continue to foster these types of relationships to continue to grow demand for red...

Feb 8, 2019

Key Issues: Animal Agriculture

Author: Cathryn Wojcicki

Former Congressman John Dingell, who represented Southeast Michigan in the U.S. House of Representatives for nearly 60 years passed away on Thursday. He was 92 years old.   Dingell was the longest-serving member of Congress, holding office from 1955-2014. He played significant roles on landmark pieces of legislation impacting health care, environment, food safety and civil rights. He was also a major player in enacting both the RFS1 and RFS2, increasing market demand for U.S. corn.   “Congressman Dingell was successful, in part, because he took full stock of the issue at hand, bluntly asking those visiting his office what the problem was and how it could be solved, and then using the legislative process to find a solution,” said NCGA CEO Jon Doggett.   “He was a great American. We don’t have many like him in Congress now, and our nation is poorer for it,” Doggett added.