Missouri Agriculture's Lunch and Learn Series

Missouri State Fair

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 15:18:00 +0000

The Missouri State Fair is almost here, giving agriculture groups around Missouri an opportunity to educate the public on the impact of livestock and crops on local economies. Many of the groups will be at the State Fair this year, so be sure to stop by and learn more about the importance of agriculture in Missouri.

Beef Industry Council
Ag Building
Beef Showcase Building
Visit the Beef Industry Council's booth to speak with Missouri cattle producers on the "pasture to plate" process of beef production. They will also have cooking demonstrations in the Beef Showcase building next to the Beef House, which will demonstrate different beef recipes and give the public an opportunity to learn how cattle are produced and why certain livestock farming practices exist.

Midwest Dairy Association
Gerken Dairy Center
The Midwest Dairy Association will feature demonstrations on milking cows and a butter sculpture. A Missouri dairy farmer will also be there with his herd to talk to the public about the dairy industry and what it takes to run a dairy farm. And of course, there will be ice cream and grilled cheese!

Missouri Corn Growers
Ag Building
The Missouri Corn Growers' booth will highlight the importance of corn in livestock production. There will be several examples of distiller's grain at the booth for you to see.

Missouri Egg Council
Ag Building
While the Missouri Egg Council will not run a booth, one of its members, Rose Acre Farms, will have a booth to help address some of the issues the industry has been met with. It is their hope to make their farm operation visible to the public so people know how eggs are produced. The booth will include information and a video on the laying houses, egg processing equipment and their grocery label.

Missouri Soybeans
Ag Building
The Missouri Soybeans Programs will focus on the invaluable link between animal agriculture and row crop production. The booth will also feature the benefits of biodiesel and the relationship between food, feed and fuel that soybeans provide us with. Old Brownie, the nation's first soy biodiesel demonstration vehicle, will also be on display.

Don't forget to stop by the Beef House, Pork Place and Poultry Grill if you'd like to try some of Missouri's high-quality beef, pork and poultry products!

The Impact of Livestock Production on Local Missouri Economies

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 17:40:00 +0000

The economic impact of agriculture in Missouri is quite significant. Missouri has 105,000 farms in total, ranking 2nd in the nation. Only Texas has more farms than Missouri.

There are 54,000 beef farms, 2600 dairy farms, 2000 swine farms, and 1362 poultry farms.

A 2006 University of Missouri study on the economic impact of a 2400-pig operation highlighted just how much activity and money livestock operations inject into the local and state economies.

The construction of the facility will generate $1,009,000 total.
After construction, the farm will spend $3500 per year in real estate and property taxes, $3000 per year in insurance fees and $5000 per year in utilities. That's $11,500 that goes right back to the local economy every year, and that's just one farm!
Many indirect jobs are also created because of a large pig operation. These types of jobs can be equipment repair and maintenance, insurance, banking, manure hauling, supplies and veterinarians.
Livestock production also gives row crop producers new markets for their corn and soybeans.

Money generated by livestock farms help support local school districts, hospitals, roads, bridges and more.

For more information, visit: http://animalag.com/Benefits.aspx.

Tough Times for Dairy Farmers

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 16:44:00 +0000

Yesterday was National Chocolate Milk Day and now more than ever do dairy farmers need our help. These days, it would be much easier to find a struggling dairy farmer than to try and find someone who didn't like chocolate milk.

Because milk prices have dropped, many dairy farmers have been pushed out of the industry. Since 2005, Missouri has lost about 500 dairy farms, and according to the USDA, dairy farmers only receive 28 cents of every retail dollar. That's a problem when milk is only half the price it was a year ago.

"The current dairy situation is probably as bad as it's been in the last 25 years," Dave Drennan, executive director of the Missouri Dairy Association, said. "The problem is we've got too much milk nationwide and not enough demand because of the current economic situation. People aren't going out to eat as much, exports have dropped and worldwide competition has increased."

Hopefully you enjoyed a glass of chocolate milk yesterday in support of our dairy farmers. But the support shouldn't stop there. Drennan offers this advice to help our dairy farmers: go out to eat more often. Cheese has always been the driver for dairy prices, and the consumption of cheese at the restaurant level is much higher than it is at home.

If dairy farms continue to suffer, Missouri will also suffer, Drennan said. Jobs and infrastructure that support the dairy industry will lose out and there will be a loss of economic activity.

Efforts are underway to try and look at any opportunity or option to provided support for Missouri dairy, Drennan said. "It's important to everyone, not just dairy farmer, that we help revitalize the dairy industry in Missouri."

Thiel Farms Lunch and Learn Wrap-Up: Farmers Provide Food For Thought

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 21:09:00 +0000

Nearly 70 participants gathered at Thiel Farms in Marshall, Mo., today to experience farming firsthand. Missouri Corn Merchandising Council (MCMC) board member Billy Thiel, with support from Missouri's commodity groups, hosted the educational luncheon to highlight agriculture's important contribution to communities.

"Missouri's farmers are working hard to produce feed, fuel and food for the world," said Thiel. "Not only are producers meeting today's global demands, but many don't realize agriculture is helping sustain our local economies. Farmers and the agribusiness industry are putting dollars back into local businesses and contributing tax revenue to our schools, roads and communities."

Following the informational luncheon, Ryland Utlaut, Mid- Missouri Energy interim general manager, invited attendees to tour the local farmer-owned ethanol plant located three miles from Thiel Farms in Malta Bend. While visiting the local biorefinery, participants were able to see firsthand the process that converts corn to ethanol and distillers grains. This additional market adds value to Missouri's corn crop and generates a quality feedstock for livestock producers.

"Every 56-pound bushel of corn used in the ethanol process yields 18 pounds of distillers grains, a good source of energy and protein for livestock and poultry," said Thiel.

"Missouri's farmer-owned ethanol plants depend on a strong livestock industry to utilize ethanol's valuable co-product. Cattle, hogs and corn are intrinsically linked and programs like today's Lunch and Learn work to convey that message."

The Thiel luncheon is one of eight events scheduled across the state this summer. To learn more about the Lunch & Learn program, visit www.lunchlearn.com.

Thiel Farms to Host Lunch & Learn Event

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 18:06:00 +0000

In just one short week, (Thurs., July 23) Billy Thiel of Thiel farms is hosting a Lunch & Learn Program on his family’s operation near Marshall, Mo. Attendees to the 11:30 luncheon will enjoy a meal provided by the Saline County Cattlemen’s Association and learn more about the Thiel family’s operation and how agriculture impacts the surrounding communities.

Missouri has deep roots in agriculture and the Thiel’s family farm is an example of that rich history. According to Billy, they are proud third-generation farmers raising corn, beans, wheat and at times cattle.

“We love what we do and want to provide a better understanding of our operation,” said Billy. “Our goal is to shine a spotlight on the importance of agriculture in Missouri’s economy.”

Thiel will also highlight the value of farmer-owned ethanol plants in rural Missouri. His family is invested in and sells corn to Mid-Missouri Energy, an ethanol biorefinery located just down the road from Thiel’s operation. Billy, a board member for the Missouri Corn Growers Association and Missouri Corn Merchandising Council, is also involved on a national level, serving on the National Corn Growers Association Ethanol Committee.

“Missouri’s corn growers rely on both ethanol and livestock to add value to our crop,” said Billy. “The state’s six ethanol plants and numerous livestock operations are vital to the success of growers. We work hard to provide feed, fuel and food to all consumers.”

An optional tour of Mid-Missouri Energy in Malta Bend will follow the luncheon at Thiel Farms. To RSVP, call Hilary Holeman at (573) 893-4181.

Is Our Food Supply Secure?

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 17:31:00 +0000

The U.S. food supply is one of the safest, most abundant supplies in the world, thanks in large part to modern agriculture. What would happen to our food supply if this ability to produce large quantities of nutritious food is eliminated? Where would we get our food from? It’s a scary thought, but one that needs to be considered.

In 2008, due to our dependence on foreign oil, the United States faced record-setting fuel prices. Imagine for a moment what might happen to our food prices in a similar scenario, where the U.S. is forced to rely on other countries for food production. If that seems far fetched, it’s only because we’ve become complacent in our appreciation of the American farmer. According to the Agriculture Council of America, today’s farmer feeds about 144 people worldwide. In 1960, that number was 25.8.

Think for a moment if most of the food consumed in the U.S. was imported. Not only would food costs rise because of importation, the safety of our food supply could also be at risk. American farmers take great pride and care in providing their country with safe and nutritious food, but they won’t have the opportunity to do so if they are pushed out of the industry by activist groups intent on destroying modern American agriculture.

Support from consumers is a pivotal part of maintaining the country’s domestic food supply. By building stronger ties between farmers and consumers, consumers gain a greater knowledge and appreciation for their food source. Modern agricultural practices have enabled farmers to keep costs down while still delivering an adequate supply of quality nutritional products. Confined animal feeding operations make it feasible for producers to make a living off of and continue farming. They make it possible for consumers to buy affordable groceries. If these types of farms go away, who will provide us with turkey, chicken, pork, dairy and beef supplies?

What would you do if you couldn’t buy domestic meat products? We encourage you to learn more about farming and visit a farm to better understand why modern farming practices exist. American farmers need our support!

Oberholtzer Farm Lunch and Learn Wrap Up

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 13:39:00 +0000

On June 24th, Missouri's commodity groups came together just west of Wyaconda, Missouri to host another lunch and learn event. The purpose was to educate community and business leaders on the importance of animal agriculture and the pork industry. Around 74 guests attended this event held at Earl Oberholtzer's farm. State representative Brian Munzlinger, along with leaders of the local community, and friends of the Oberholtzers were in attendance.

Although growing up on a dairy farm, Earl had always had a desire to raise pigs. In 2008, he decided to build a brand new hog facility and contract with Cargill. Earl explained his role in the local community listing over 15 businesses he uses and taxes he pays to support the local economy. He also stated that all of the pig manure from his barn is used as fertilizer for his next year's crops, making him an ultimate recycler. In a county where a health ordinance is looking to be passed against CAFOs, Earl was asked what he would be doing if he didn't farm. Earl responded, "I've been farming all my life. If I didn't have the opportunity to build this operation, I don't know what I would be doing." Members of the Scotland County community that were in attendance urged everyone to vote on this issue in the upcoming August election.

According to the University of Missouri and USDA, Missouri ranks 7th in the nation in pork production with a total economic impact of $1.1 billion dollars. Also, Missouri hogs consume 16% of the corn and 9% of the soybeans produced in the state of Missouri making it an important relationship between the crop and livestock industry.

Missouri Eggs

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 18:00:00 +0000

Someone once said, “A chicken is a soybean with feathers.” The nutritional impact chickens, specifically eggs, has is quite considerable, much like the nutritional value in soybeans. Both eggs and soybeans have high levels of protein and low levels of fat.

Missouri has long been in the egg business. One of the nation’s largest egg companies started producing eggs in southwest Missouri in the 1940s with a feed mill and hatchery. Since then, several other large companies have begun to produce in Missouri, one of which supplies most of the eggs in Schnuck’s supermarkets.

One hen per person is the guideline for figuring out how many laying hens it takes to produce enough eggs for a population. Missouri comes out about even, having close to 6 million layers and nearly 6 million in population. However, eggs move freely across state lines, so a good many Missouri eggs end up in far-flung states, and we do get a bunch in from other states. Some economists value a laying hen at $25. Using that, number, Missouri layers would have a value of almost $150 million.

Eggs are the standard of perfection of protein. Egg protein contains all the essential amino acids we need, making eggs a good source of complete protein. With the exception of vitamin C, an egg contains differing amounts of all the essential vitamins plus several minerals. An egg yolk is one of the few foods which naturally contain vitamin D. A large egg also has a moderate amount of fat, about 5 grams. Saturated fats account for 1.5 grams, and 2.6 grams are of unsaturated fat.

Missouri Dairy

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 20:10:00 +0000

Dairy is an integral part of our health and our local economy. Dairy is the 6th largest agricultural business in Missouri, with around 1800 dairy farms around the state that produce 218 million gallons of milk annually. On average, each cow will produce 5.2 gallons of milk per day over the course of a typical year.

The calcium found in milk and dairy products helps you build and maintain strong bones, maintain a healthy weight and control your blood pressure. Milk and dairy products not only offer calcium, they also contain phosphorus, potassium, protein, vitamins D, A and B12, riboflavin and niacin. In fact, the benefits of dairy are so significant if every American had 3-4 servings a day, national health care costs could be reduced by $26 billion in the first year and more than $200 billion over five years. Yet, research shows that most of us only get half of 3 servings recommended every day.

Missouri dairy farmers provide more than just milk. They bring jobs and economic activity to communities around the state by supporting local businesses and the community tax base. Dairy farmers purchase from local companies and help generate jobs in the transportation, distribution and retail industries.

Missouri dairy farmers are committed to providing safe, nutritious dairy products, while boosting their local economies.

Sustainable Cycle

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 20:45:00 +0000

This video comes from a farmer in Iowa, but it does a good job of pointing out the interconnectivity of row-crop farming and raising livestock.

Salyer Farm event POSTPONED

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 18:49:00 +0000

The Lunch and Learn scheduled for Thursday, June 18 at Salyer's Farm in Higginsville has been postponed. Recent storms and excessive rain have damaged some of the facilities at the farm. Stay tuned for an update regarding a future make-up date. Sorry for the inconvenience.

Missouri Producer Uses YouTube to Tell Pork’s Story

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 17:03:00 +0000

Chris Chinn is throwing open the barn doors at her family’s farrow-to-finish Missouri hog farm and inviting guests to take a tour, thanks to the power of YouTube.

“In today’s world, putting a face on farming is a necessity,” says Chinn, a fifth generation farmer who runs a 2,400-sow operation near Clarence, Mo., with her husband, Kevin, his parents and his brother. “It’s important to use online tools like blogs and social networking sites to reach a wider audience and stand up for agriculture.”

The five-minute “Truth about Modern Pork Production” video shows daily life inside the farrowing room and finishing barns. Chris, who narrates the video, describes the farm’s nutrient management plan to protect the environment, details how the barns’ computerized climate control systems contribute to the animals’ comfort, and explains the importance of animal well being, from proper nutrition to veterinary care.

“We hope this helps people understand why we use modern technology on farms and the benefits it brings to our livestock,” says Chinn, whose husband shot the video with a camcorder. “Our motivation is to maintain our business and way of life so we can pass the farm on to our two children some day.”

Consumers respond positively
Many of the YouTube viewers who have commented on Chinn’s video echo the sentiments of WorkingMom13, who wrote, “This is really an informative video. It explained several things about pigs that make me realize how much better it is for them inside those buildings. Pig farmers really care about how the pigs are taken care of.”

Consumers are hungry for knowledge about modern agriculture and food production, says Chinn, who e-mailed the link to her YouTube video to her many e-mail contacts, including local media. “While people are inerested in livestock production, they want easy-to-understand explanations without a lot of details. I encourage more pork producers to share their story and build trust with consumers.”

Content originally posted at: www.pork.org.

The Link Between Soybeans and Animal Agricultre

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 19:14:00 +0000

Why is the livestock and poultry industry important to soybean producers?
Animal agriculture is an indispensable part of soybean farming. According to the United Soybean Board, over 98 percent of all domestically produced soybean meal goes to feed livestock, making livestock farmers the number one customer of soybean farmers. That’s why it is important for the soybean industry to support livestock and poultry producers so that long-term demand for U.S. soybeans exists.

Why is soybean meal a good choice for feed?
Soybean meal is ideal for animal nutrition because it is available year-round and has high levels of protein. Soybean meal also has the same amount or more amino acids than other plants.

Did you know?
• It would take nearly 1,300 Olympic-size swimming pools to hold the amount of soybean meal consumed by beef cattle each year.
• Poultry consumes nearly 17.6 million acres of soybeans.
• The weight of the soybean meal consumed by pigs is equal to that of 178 Empire State buildings.
Source: United Soybean Board

Family Farmers

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 15:34:00 +0000

A new movie which opens tomorrow called Food Inc. is attempting to paint American agriculture as a system of "factory" or "corporate" farms. Yet according to the United States Department of Agriculture, ninety-eight percent of all farms in the U.S. are family farms. Family farms are commonly defined as a farm owned and operated by a family, and passed down from generation to generation. In this video, individual farmers talk about their own family farms and what it means to have a family operated farm.

M&M Dairy Farm Lunch and Learn Wrap-up

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 16:27:00 +0000

Randy Mooney, of M&M Dairy, hosted the June 2^nd Lunch and Learn event on his dairy farm in Rogersville, Mo. A coalition of Missouri agricultural groups promotes the Lunch and Learn series to educate the community and its leaders. Several state representatives, including Charlie Denison, Shane Schoeller and Jay Wasson attended.

Mooney used the opportunity to speak about his dairy operation and his preference for grazing. He started grazing his cows in 1991 “without knowing much,” Mooney said. He traveled to New Zealand to learn more about grazing practices, such as rotational grazing. Every 12 hours, the cows are moved to a new pasture to graze. Mooney monitors all 196 acres of pasture for nutrient levels, specifically protein. He then balances the protein levels within the cow’s feed for optimum protein levels.

Mooney is also crossbreeding Holstein cows with Jersey cows. The end result is a cow that has higher levels of milk solids, can deal with the heat better, and will also graze better.

As the Chairman of the National Milk Producer’s Federation and the Vice Chairman of Dairy Farmer’s of America, Mooney said he understood the impact a farm can have on a community and is conscious of the impact. For him, fitting into the community is very important. He strives to always be aware of how his farm may affect the community.

Dairy farming is a $234 million a year industry in Missouri that benefits rural economies. There are around 1800 dairy farms in Missouri, 98% of which are family-owned.

Willow Bend Pork Lunch and Learn Wrap-up

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 28 May 2009 14:49:00 +0000

Another Lunch and Learn was held May 27^th in Taylor, Mo., at Roger Sutter’s Willow Bend Pork Farm. The Lunch and Learn series is promoted by a coalition of Missouri agricultural groups to increase community understanding of the industry. Local community leaders, Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer, and several state representatives, including Paul Quinn, Brian Munzlinger and Tom Shively, attended the event.

While the family farm has been around since the 1960s, Sutter only recently began raising pigs, becoming a contract grower for Cargill in 2006.

Sutter explained the role his hog farm plays within the local community to a crowd of approximately 90 people who attended the Lunch and Learn event. He said contract growing reduces the risk of losses and provides more stability for his farm. Although Cargill owns the pigs, Sutter owns the farm and cares for the animals. He also uses local vendors and businesses, pays local property taxes and has four employees, all of which help support the local economy. Sutter finished the presentation by explaining to the audience the value of pig manure and how he uses it to fertilize his crop fields.

Missouri’s pork industry provides close to 32,000 direct and support jobs and has a total economic impact of $1.1 billion, according to the Missouri Pork Association.

Pictures and audio from Henderson Lunch and Learn

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Tue, 26 May 2009 13:55:00 +0000

Here are a few pictures from the Lunch and Learn event hosted at Henderson Ranch in Warsaw, MO. Listen to an audio recap here.

The next Lunch and Learn program will be held Wednesday, May 27 at Willow Bend Pork in Taylor, MO.

Wrap-up of Lunch and Learn hosted by Case Farms

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Fri, 22 May 2009 15:51:00 +0000

On May 21, Missouri’s commodity groups came together as advocates for agriculture. The Lunch and Learn event was hosted by Jeff and Chanda Case on their Adair County farm. The purpose was to educate community and business leaders on the importance of animal agriculture and the beef industry. Leaders of the local community and elected officials of surrounding areas attended the event.

The Case family owns one of the 52,060 beef farms in Missouri. With a total of 107,000 farms statewide, there are cows on more than half of the state's farms.

Jeff attributed his family's focus on agriculture to long lines of tradition as he proudly shared pictures of the kids helping with chores. Just like this family operation in northern Missouri, the state's average beef herd size is 36. Missouri's beef industry impacts the state economy by $2.3 billion annually.

2009 Lunch and Learn Program Kicks Off!

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 18 May 2009 15:44:00 +0000

We had a great crowd at our first Lunch and Learn program this year. Our hosts, the Henderson Ranch, near Warsaw, provided grilled beef burgers for the more than 120 guests who came to visit. Leslie Grace (Henderson) greeted the crowd and introduced the entire family and all the ranch hands. Leslie shared the heritage of the ranch which now spans five generations. Focused on superior animal health and well-being along with grass and water management, the family is able to care for over 12,000 animals a year on the several thousand acre spread. They focus on bringing in young cattle and making sure they are healthy, are able to eat from feed bunks, and ready to move on to other pastures or feedlots. Additionally, the Hendersons have their own lab for detecting BVD, a disease that inflicts cattle. By detecting and treating only infected animals, they are able to minimize the use of antibiotics and improve overall herd health. Their lab is available to other beef producers as well!

MBIC provided detailed information about local cattle numbers, the Missouri beef industry in general, and tools available for siting livestock farms in Missouri.

Did I mention that the ranch headquarters is directly across the road from the local elementary school? The school principal joined us for lunch and declared that they were going to start bringing students over to see the lab and cattle and learn more about environmental protection. Those children are going to get a real treat as Leslie and the rest of the Henderson family teach them about the beef business!

Hog Farm Wins Case

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 21:09:00 +0000

Commission’s Decision Directly Contradicts the Ruling in the Arrow Rock Case

The Administrative Hearing Commission (AHC) issued a decision dismissing an appeal filed by the Missouri Parks Association (MPA). The Parks Association attempted to revoke a construction permit issued to Cin-Way, L.L.C., an Audrain County hog farming operation.

The Parks Association claimed that a recent judgment in the Friends of Arrow Rock v. DNR case prevented the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR) from issuing Cin-Way’s permit to construct a 4,880-head swine finishing building.

The Missouri Parks Association argued that the Arrow Rock judgment prohibited the construction of concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) within 15 miles of state parks. On December 9, 2008, the judgment was narrowed to apply only to CAFOs within 2 miles of Arrow Rock. The AHC bluntly rejected their argument stating that, “because Cin-Way’s CAFO is 12 miles from Mark Twain State Park, claim that the CAFO’s distance from the park violates the Circuit Court’s ruling is without substance.”

The AHC noted that buffer distances, imposed by Missouri statute, “address and consider potential odor-related or nuisance-related impacts to individuals residing in or visiting public buildings and occupied residences near CAFOs.” Therefore the AHC held, “these requirements already protect visitors to state parks and historic sites and landmarks . . .”

In rejecting the appeal, the AHC recommended to the Missouri Clean Water Commission (CWC) that the construction permit be upheld. The AHC stated that, “DNR and the CWC simply lack the authority to include in this construction permit conditions that relate to state parks and historic sites and landmarks.”

The AHC concluded that the Missouri Parks Association’s “arguments against granting Cin-Way’s construction permit application because of airborne odors and pollutants affecting Mark Twain State Park fail as a matter of law.” Thus, Cin-Way is free to continue with the construction of its new facility.

“This decision demonstrates that the Missouri Parks Association has no legal basis to challenge permits issued to family farmers who are attempting to establish new swine operations,” said Don Nikodim, Executive Director of the Missouri Pork Association. Cin-Way, L.L.C. is a family farming operation owned by Wayne and Cindy Windmann, along with their son Jared and his wife Leslie.

FAQ's Regarding EPA's Issues Final Ruling on CAFOs

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 20:14:00 +0000

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized a rule to help protect the nation’s water quality by requiring concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) to safely manage manure. The final rule responds to a February 2005 federal court decision that upheld most of the agency’s 2003 rule, but directed further action or clarification on some portions.

The rule adds new requirements relating to nutrient management plans (NMPs) for permitted CAFOs. The rule also includes a no-discharge certification for CAFOs that can establish that they will not discharge. Additionally, the rule revises the requirement for all CAFOs to apply for National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits and instead requires only those CAFOs that discharge, or propose to discharge, to apply for permits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is there still a requirement for CAFOs to seek permit coverage?

A: Yes. Under the final rule, CAFOs that discharge or propose to
discharge have a duty to apply for NPDES permits, the same as other categories of dischargers.

Q: What is the benefit to the CAFO owner/operator of having an NPDES permit?

A: Because the Clean Water Act (CWA) prohibits discharges from unpermitted CAFOs, NPDES permit coverage provides certainty to CAFO operators regarding activities and actions that are necessary to comply with the CWA. Compliance with the permit may act as a shield
against EPA or state CWA enforcement or citizen lawsuits. Furthermore, NPDES permits allow for discharge when precipitation causes an overflow from a structure that is designed, constructed, operated and maintained in accordance with the permit. Finally, upset provisions can protect permittees when emergencies or natural disasters cause discharges beyond their reasonable control.,

Q: Why should an unpermitted CAFO certify if it is not going to discharge?

A: In the event of a discharge from a properly certified CAFO, the CAFO will not be liable for prior failure to seek permit coverage. The CAFO, however, remains liable for discharging without an NPDES permit.

Q: With respect to land application, what are the two approaches in the final rule for expressing rates of application?

A: The final rule provides two approaches a CAFO may use in its NMP to identify annual maximum rates of application of manure, litter, and process wastewater by field and crop for each year of permit coverage:
· The "linear approach" expresses field-specific maximum rates of application in terms of the amount of nitrogen and phosphorus from manure, litter, and process wastewater allowed to be applied.
· The "narrative rate approach" allows application rates to be determined based on the total amount of nutrients combined with a specific, quantitative method for calculating the amount of manure, litter, process wastewater allowed to be land applied.

Q: What constitutes a substantial change to the NMP and requires a
permit modification?

A: The final rule includes a list of changes to the NMP that constitute a substantial change to the terms of a CAFOs NMP. Examples of such substantial changes include the addition of new land
application areas not previously included in the CAFOs NMP and addition of any crop not included in the terms of the CAFOs NMP and corresponding field-specific rates of application.

Q: If a CAFO already has coverage under a permit, will the operator need to submit a new application by 2/27/09?

A: No. EPA recognizes that approximately 9,000 CAFOs already have NPDES permit coverage. These CAFOs must comply with the conditions of their existing permits as long as those permits remain in effect. Upon expiration of existing individual or general permits, EPA expects permitting authorities to issue new individual or general permits that will then need to reflect the requirements of this rule. Permitting authorities may request NMPs at any time based on the 2003 rule, and newly permitted CAFOs will need to submit an NMP when seeking permit coverage.

Q: What are the compliance deadlines for recently defined CAFOs?

A: The compliance deadline to apply for NPDES permits for operations that were recently defined as CAFOs by the 2003 rule is February 27, 2009.

Federal CAFO Contact:
EPA Region 7 CAFO coordinator Donna Porter, porter.donna@epa.gov, (800) 223-0425.
Missouri CAFO contact:
Darrick Steen, darricksteen@dnr.mo.gov, (573) 751-1403

Farmers Provide Cheap Food, So Get Off Their Backs

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 20:10:00 +0000

As I See It: Farmers provide cheap food, so get off their backs
By Marcia Gorrell, Special to The Kansas City Star

I grew up in the Kansas City area, a typical “city kid” until I went to the University of Missouri-Columbia and fell head over heels for a farm boy from Saline County.
I have seen both sides of the agriculture debate.

I know what it is like to rely on media reports, not really knowing the true story of U.S. agriculture. But after 20-plus years of operating a farm with my husband, I now know the “rest of the story.”

That is why I was very upset by Karen Dillon’s recent Star article (10/30, “Factory farms under fire; Warehouse-style conditions and confinement inspire a wave of challenges”) about the Scott Phillips farm near Drexel.

It could have focused on the fact that Americans enjoy the safest, most abundant and least expensive food supply in the world. We spend just 10 percent of our take-home paychecks on food, a lower percentage than any other country in the world.

Dillon wrote about the European Union farmers phasing out gestation and veal crates, as well as chicken cages. What she didn’t say is that in the United Kingdom, consumers pay three times more for their food than we do in the United States.

They also import more than 40 percent of their food. That figure has doubled since 1984. And the UK still pays less for food than other European Union countries.
As one local farmer told me: “This is the one industry in America we are better at than any other country. We don’t want to lose agriculture, too.”

The Phillips farm is one of more than 99 percent that has not had violations, that care about their animals and that have adapted modern farming practices based on sound research by industry and university officials.

However, the article mentioned farms that have had violations. No one in agriculture condones those abuses, but it certainly doesn’t depict the real truth of American agriculture.
Many of the backers of Proposition 2 in California have stated they want to end animal agriculture and meat consumption altogether.

So it forwards their interests if prices are higher and meat, eggs and milk are less affordable for the average American.But is it in your best interest?

Please listen to the experts in the fields, the farmers such as Phillips who day after day care for their animals. If you instead focus on the “horror” stories of less than 1 percent of our industry, we are in danger of losing family farmers in America, just like they have in the UK.

We are already dependent on foreign oil; do we really want to be dependent on other countries for our most basic need — food?

Marcia Gorrell, her husband and two sons raise corn, soybeans and cattle. She lives in Marshall, Mo.

Missouri Hog Operation Receives Environmental Award

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 21:32:00 +0000

A Missouri farm family is one of four pork production operations receiving a 2008 Pork Industry Environmental Steward award. The pork checkoff and its cosponser, National Hog Farmer Magazine, recognize operations protecting the environment. Oetting Farms of Concordia, Mo., was selected for demonstrating a firm commitment to safeguarding the environment and the surrounding community.

The environmental steward award winners were selected by judges drawn from pork producers and environmental organizations. The judges reviewed the applications of pork producers committed to minimizing the pork industry’s footprint on the environment. Their operations were evaluated on their manure management systems; water and soil conservation practices; odor-control strategies; farm aesthetics and neighbor relations; wildlife habitat promotion; innovative ideas used to protect the environment and an essay on the meaning of environmental stewardship.

“We receive a great set of pork producer applications and nominations every year. These operations are committed to doing things right for the environment, for their families and for U.S. agriculture,” said Randy Brown, chair of the environmental stewards selection subcommittee and member of the National Pork Board. “Pork producers generally chose to do things right. Farming is their livelihood and protecting the natural resources is part of doing business and part of every day life. These producers went one step further because they chose to represent the industry and apply for this award,” he added. Randy Brown’s family operation received the environmental steward award in 2005.

Award recipients will receive the recognition of their peers at the 2009 National Pork Industry Forum in Dallas, Texas.

Scotland County Repeals CAFO Ordinance

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 19:41:00 +0000

Scotland County livestock owners can breathe a little easier now that county commissioners have decided to repeal an ordinance with strict regulations on concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs). The Scotland County Commission voted 3-0 to repeal the ordinance during regular session on September 18th.

The Memphis Democrat reports the minutes from the meeting offered the following statement:

“It is the county commission’s belief that Scotland County does not have the resources or staffing to properly enforce this ordinance. The County Commission is of the opinion that this should be managed by the state Department of Natural Resources and not county government. It is our hope that DNR will revisit their regulations and improve them.”

The repeal of the county regulations took effect immediately following the commission action on September 18th. With the repeal of the ordinance, the regulations controlling CAFOs in the county reverted to the state DNR established rules.

To read the full story, click here.

Facts about Food Prices

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 17:36:00 +0000

These facts come from http://www.foodpricetruth.org/, a watchdog group developed in response to a coordinated public relations smear campaign against biofuels designed to make the American people, the media and U.S. policymakers believe that biofuels are the driving force behind rising food costs. Missouri's soybean and corn farmers are working closely with the livestock industry to best serve the feed needs of the state's cattlemen, pork producers and poultry producers.

Did you know:
The biggest reason food costs more today is fuel prices. USDA Secretary Schafer recently stated: "Higher oil prices affect much more than just the cost of driving; they are actually one of the major factors behind higher food costs."

Did you know:
The USDA and the White House Council of Economic Advisors have stated that increased corn demand is only responsible for "3 percent of the more than 40 percent increase we have seen in world food prices this year."

Did you know:
While it is true that U.S. food prices have increased about 4.5% this year, nearly all experts agree that today's food price increases can be attributed to a combination of factors, including record oil prices, the declining value of the U.S. dollar, increased demand for grain from developing economies around the world, rampant speculation on the commodities market, weather related production shortages worldwide (especially wheat), and food company profiteering.

Did you know:
Major food companies are profiting nicely from the food price crisis: Land O'Lakes (earnings up 16%), Kraft Foods (earnings up 21%), Sara Lee (net income up 55%), and General Mills (profits up 61% from 2007). Kellogg Co. stated in its own press release that the company's profits grew 9% in part because of "recent price increases."

Did you know:
Oil companies are enjoying record profits, while consumers continue to pay more. ExxonMobil reported profits in excess of $40 billion last year, which is the largest profit any corporation has ever received at any time in history.