AgWired » Ag Group

ANCW President Addresses Cattle Industry Convention

Chuck — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:43:38 +0000

Jill Ginn of Texas addressed the general session of the Cattle Industry Convention last week as one of her last acts as the 60th president of the American National Cattlewomen (ANCW).

“I’m proud to say that this national voice has had a major impact with consumers, politicians and other cattle producers for 60 amazing years,” Jill said. “In 2011, nearly 1600 ANCW members, representing 28 state affiliates, committed to continue our legacy.”

She noted that ANCW’s primary focus is to mobilize their network of volunteers to engage in conversations with consumers and youth about topics ranging from cooking to animal well-being.

Jill has been a cattle buyer for Excel and is currently a territory manager for Novartis Animal Health and she has served in officer positions for various cattlewomen associations.

Jill is now past president of ANCW as Tammi Didlot of Oklahoma was elected the 61st president during the organization’s 2012 Annual Meeting in Nashville.

Listen to Jill’s comments here: ANCW President Jill Ginn

2012 Cattle Industry Convention Photo Album

Media Reception Features Joey+Rory

Chuck — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:42:58 +0000

The Cattle Industry Summer Convention Media Reception had a special appearance this year. Joey+Rory performed for us and then stayed around to visit. They’re sponsored by Roper Boots and are pictured with Cindy and yours truly.

I visited with them briefly after they were done and learned just how much they love farming and beef! I also shot a video clip of their song, Cheater Cheater.

Listen to some farm and beef advocates here: Interview with Joey+Rory

2012 Cattle Industry Convention Photo Album

Beef Board Chairman Welcomes Convention Attendees

Chuck — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 23:15:04 +0000

The opening general session of the Cattle Industry Convention featured welcoming remarks from the Bill Donald, President of NCBA, as well as Wesley Grau, Chairman of the Cattlemen’s Beef Board.

Wesley quoted CBB CEO, Polly Ruhland, from last summer’s meeting saying, “We are truly blessed.” He encouraged everyone to take full advantage of all the opportunities this convention provides. He says, “It’s all part of keeping our heritage alive for our children and grand children.” Saying that we’re in the middle of some changes in our industry and Beef Checkoff program he followed up with “Change is never easy but it has a reputation for being a pretty strong catalyst for growth and progress.” Wesley concluded by showing the video of past NCBA President, Steve Fogelsong, that was featured by McDonald’s. Well worth watching.

I recorded Wesley’s comments for you. His comments followed remarks from Jill Ginn, President, American National Cattlewomen: Opening Remarks From Wesley Grau

2012 Cattle Industry Convention Photo Album

Previewing Beef Board Activities

Chuck — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 18:09:11 +0000

To get a look at the work of the Beef Board during the 2012 Cattle Industry Convention I spoke with Polly Ruhland, CEO. Once again I’m the Beef Board Blogger and will be mostly posting on the CBB MyBeefCheckoffMeeting.com blog, something I’ve been doing since January of 2006!

Polly says there are two main governance issues being dealt with by special committees that were formed after last summer’s meeting. One of those is to review the by-laws. That special committee has presented changes to the Board and those will be voted on during the CBB Update session on Thursday. The other special committee focused on the joint committee structure and will be making recommendations during that same business session.

Get a full preview of Beef Board activities from Polly in my interview with her here: Interview with Polly Ruhland

2012 Cattle Industry Convention Photo Album

First NCBA Communications Workshop

Chuck — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 19:42:47 +0000

Hello from Nashville and the Cattle Industry Convention. Cindy and I had a very uneventful trip today and got some exercise finding our room. I don’t know about you but the Opryland Gaylord is not the easiest place to find rooms.

I’m attending the first ever NCBA Communications Workshop. This is a group made up of the communications staff at the various state organizations. We were welcomed by NCBA President-Elect, J.D. Alexander.

We’ve got both “experienced” and new to professional life attendees here. The program ranges from updates on different NCBA activities to social media (surprised?).

I’ll be conducting a workshop on using smartphones and mobile apps and have my bag full of goodies for show and tell time. We’re going to look at using your phone to record audio/video and take photos as well as manage and update social networking channels.

Don’t forget to follow along on Twitter using the #CIC12 hashtag.

And I’ve got a photo set started: 2012 Cattle Industry Convention Photo Album

New Board Members For AgChat Foundation

Chuck — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 15:32:07 +0000

The AgChat Foundation just announced new board members.

Four new members have joined the AgChat Foundation board of directors, adding different types of experience in social media and agriculture to the nonprofit, announces President Darin Grimm. Last month, organic dairy farmer Emily Zweber, Elko, Minn., was named the organization’s first executive director.

“All four of our new board members have been actively engaged in the AgChat community for some time and have enthusiastically embraced the Foundation’s mission,” says Grimm. “A diverse board helps ensure the Foundation serves the needs of all agricultural segments and effectively empowers farmers and ranchers to tell their stories using social media.”

John Blue, Indiana
John Blue has been on the Foundation’s advisory board for two years and has been an important contributor to many of AgChat’s successes. As chief of community creation for Truffle Media Networks, Blue helps engage agriculturally focused audiences through marketing, technology and in-person interactions.

Marie Bowers, Oregon
Marie Bowers is a fifth-generation grass seed farmer in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, managing land that has been in her family for more than a century. She graduated from Washington State University with degrees in agriculture and agriculture economics and management, then spent three years in the Farm Credit System.

Jan Hoadley, Alabama
Jan Hoadley grew up on a family farm in Illinois with Charolais cattle. Today she raises poultry and rabbits at Slow Money Farm, tapping technology and tradition to keep the operation viable. Hoadley has a long-standing interest in heritage and rare breeds of livestock and heirloom plants. She currently raises Giant Chinchilla rabbits and several breeds of heritage chickens. Hoadley says social media has been a means of survival and an important promotional tool for building customer connections and direct selling.

Jeff VanderWerff, Michigan
After nearly 10 years on the road in agribusiness, Jeff VanderWerff is back home on his family’s farm near Sparta, Mich., and doing what he loves most: raising corn, wheat, soybeans, apples and peaches with his wife, Alyssa, and brother, father and uncle. Always on the cutting edge of farm technology, VanderWerff first started telling his farm’s story in a 2009 Farm & Ranch Living feature.

Blue, Bowers, Hoadley and VanderWerff, along with the rest of the AgChat Board and the training committee, are planning the nonprofit’s third annual social media and thought-leadership conference. “We will be announcing the city and date shortly,” Grimm says. “Our group is working hard to ensure that the conference content is keeping pace with the rapidly changing social media landscape.”

Nashville TweetUp For Cattle Enthusiasts

Chuck — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:45:44 +0000

I don’t know if this is the only planned TweetUp for the Cattle Industry Convention but it’s the only one I got invited to. What do you think about this? Are cattle farmers social or what?

Step aside, computers. An in-person “tweet up” is planned for all those attending the 2012 Cattle Industry Annual Convention, held Feb. 1-4 in Nashville, Tenn.

The American Angus Association®, Certified Angus Beef LLC (CAB) and Angus Productions, Inc. (API) will host the event for their Twitter followers and others who would like to learn more about online communications.

“The social media world allows us to connect with others in seconds, but very rarely do we get to visit with them in person,” says Jena Thompson, Association assistant director of public relations. “This is a perfect opportunity to get to know your virtual friends.”

Attendees will have a chance to meet and share more than Twitter’s 140 characters, while in a social setting at the trade show. The gathering is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 1 at the Angus booths, 1062, during the NCBA Trade Show Welcome Reception.

“The ‘tweet up’ is also a great event for those who do not have Twitter accounts,” says Laura Nelson, Certified Angus Beef LLC industry information specialist. “If you’re interested in learning the ropes, stop by and we can help get you started.”

For more details or questions, follow the Association, CAB and API using the following Twitter handles, respectively: @AngusAssoc, @BlackInkBasics and @ABBeditor.

As of right now there are 49 tweeps signed up with 9 saying maybe. Go on over to the FB event page and let ‘em know you plan to attend. You can follow coverage of the 2012 Cattle Industry Annual Convention and Trade Show via Twitter using the official hashtag: #CIC12

Eggmeister is the Egg Mascot

Chuck — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 18:59:25 +0000

Thanks to the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association for providing a photo of the winner of the
name the International Poultry Expo egg mascot contest.

The International Poultry Expo’s egg mascot has been officially named Eggmeister! After receiving over 1,350 name submissions, the list was narrowed down to five names. On Thursday, January 26, the name with the most votes was announced during the 2012 International Poultry Expo in Atlanta, GA. The event was sponsored by the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association (USPOULTRY) and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB).

Dave Roets, Prime Equipment Company, submitted the winning entry. The iPad was presented to Roets by John Starkey, president of USPOULTRY. Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau’s Cookie Smoak, director of convention services; Ellie Westman Chin, vice president; and Mark Sussman, director of trade show sales, assisted in the presentation. The remaining four participants will receive a 2012 souvenir t-shirt.

For those who may not know Eggmiester’s story before he joined the International Poultry Expo, following is a brief history of Eggmeister’s life:

Eggmiester is a rebel. Don’t mess with him or you will get egg on your face. But in spite of the appearance of having a hard shell, he is really a softie inside. He has dry sense of humor that will crack you up. He is also a contradiction in terms. On the one hand, he will weep when watching a sad movie; but when he gets hot, he becomes hard-boiled.

His resume includes a degree in culinary arts, where he specialized in omelets. His career, though, took a wrong turn when he was arrested for poaching in Yellowstone National Park. With considerable grilling, he confessed.

After serving probation for six months, his attitude changed by looking at the sunny side of life. He eventually became a good egg. In fact, he was considering becoming a Benedictine monk, but ultimately decided the International Poultry Expo was where he would best be served.

2012 International Poultry Expo Photo Album

Coverage of the 2012 International Poultry Expo is sponsored by Novus International

Wrapping Up International Poultry Expo

Chuck — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 16:51:52 +0000

The 2012 International Poultry and Feed Expo exceeded expectations. Here are some statistics on this year’s event.

The 2012 International Poultry Expo and International Feed Expo drew over 20,500 poultry and feed industry leaders from all over the world. In addition, the show had 895 exhibitors as compared to 900 last year. Sponsored by U.S. Poultry & Egg Association and the American Feed Industry Association, the annual Expo is the world’s largest poultry and feed industry event of its kind.

To get a wrap up on the event I spoke with John Starkey, President, U.S. Poultry & Egg Association. He says, “It’s been a great show for us.” Holding on to about the same size as last year considering the difficult year many had in 2011 makes them very pleased. Looking ahead to having the American Meat Institute show co-located in 2013 has them pretty excited. He says that all three industry organizations will be taking their net revenues from the show and putting it back into the industry.

Listen to my interview with John here: Interview with John Starkey

2012 International Poultry Expo Photo Album

Coverage of the 2012 International Poultry Expo is sponsored by Novus International

Waiting For Massive New Feed/Food Safety Regulations

Chuck — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 17:51:14 +0000

The feed industry is facing “the mother of all laws,” the Food Safety Modernization Act. That’s according to Richard Sellers, American Feed Industry Association, one of the sponsoring organization this week for the combined International Poultry Expo and International Feed Expo. Pictured are staff members from AFIA including Richard on the left.

Richard says this law, which has not yet gone into effect, will create massive regulations for the feed industry and that it will be incredibly costly. Apparently FDA has until this summer to come out with the regs to go along with the law. The law was signed by President Obama a little over a year ago. Of course the industry has been proactively working on a safer feed and food supply for years with the Safe Feed/Safe Food Certification Program. Makes you wonder why we need more laws and regulations doesn’t it?

Listen to my interview with Richard here: Interview with Richard Sellers

2012 International Poultry Expo Photo Album

Coverage of the 2012 International Poultry Expo is sponsored by Novus International

Egg Products Inspection Act Amendment

Chuck — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 17:32:13 +0000

It’s now officially introduced in the House as H.R. 3798. It’s an amendment to the Egg Products Inspection Act. “To provide for a uniform national standard for the housing and treatment of egg-laying hens, and for other purposes.” And it’s very controversial within the ag industry. This proposed legislation which has been crafted as a result of last year’s agreement between HSUS and the United Egg Producers (pdf) has some pretty strong opposition according to a release from the American Farm Bureau Federation. “Other organizations joining AFBF in raising serious concerns about the bill include the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the National Pork Producers Council, the National Chicken Council, the National Turkey Federation and the National Milk Producers Federation.” The House bill is sponsored by Rep. Kurt Schrader [D-OR5] and co-sponsored by Jeff Denham [R-CA19], Sam Farr [D-CA17] and Elton Gallegly [R-CA24].

To learn why and how United Egg Producers worked with HSUS on this I spoke with Gene Gregory, President/CEO, UEP, seen on right with Rod Smith, Feedstuffs. Gene says the agreement came about from a proactive approach by UEP to HSUS to find a way to get rid of all the state ballot initiatives on this subject. The organizations have been adversaries in the past. Surprisingly, he says, they agreed. He says it’s all about trying to save the egg farming industry and UEP has worked to make sure it only addresses eggs and no other commodity. He says they would withdraw support if that were to change.

But, according to AFBF, “The flawed legislation, H.R. 3798, introduced by Rep. Kurt Schrader (D-Ore.), would set a dangerous precedent by establishing federally mandated egg production practices and banning a number of other proven science-based egg production methods, according to AFBF President Bob Stallman.” So there is some obvious industry disagreement on this issue.

Listen to my interview with Gene to get more of his perspective, especially as it relates to concerns of other ag groups here: Interview with Gene Gregory

2012 International Poultry Expo Photo Album

Coverage of the 2012 International Poultry Expo is sponsored by Novus International

AMI To Co-Locate With Poultry/Feed Expo

Chuck — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:41:53 +0000

It looks like IPE Week in Atlanta is going to get bigger next year. The U.S. Poultry & Egg Association and the American Feed Industry Association have signed an agreement with the American Meat Institute to co-locate the AMI tradeshow with the IPE/IFE in Atlanta, annually in January, starting in 2013.

The three shows will operate under one umbrella creating one of the largest 50 shows in the United States. It is expected that the entire show will include more than 1,000 exhibitors and close to 1,000,000 square feet of exhibit space. The meat and poultry exhibits will be combined on one large show floor, and the IFE will be held in the adjacent hall. One badge will allow all attendees into any exhibit.

“We are very excited about this partnership with AMI, and the co-location is something our exhibitors have asked about for a long time. The consolidation of the tradeshows will allow our respective organizations to build on the synergies of the poultry, feed, and meat sectors, as well as provide a benefit to our exhibitors and members who produce or exhibit across multiple protein sectors,” commented John Starkey, President of USPOULTRY.

All three associations will continue to operate independently, serving their respective constituents and will offer targeted education and networking opportunities that meet the customer needs and compliment the expo. The operations of the show will be handled out of the USPOULTRY offices, and AMI and AFIA will be instrumental in driving attendance promotion and exhibit sales efforts.

2012 International Poultry Expo Photo Album

Coverage of the 2012 International Poultry Expo is sponsored by Novus International

Overview Of 2012 International Poultry Expo

Chuck — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 14:37:13 +0000

The 2012 International Poultry Expo has an increased focus on educational sessions according to Charles Olentine, Executive Vice President. I spoke with him about the show this year which he says has “exceeded our expectations.” Last year was a tough one in the industry but the show has just about the same number of exhibitors and attendees as in 2011. International attendees continue to be a big part of IPE accounting for about twenty five percent of those who are here.

This is the 64th year for the show and Charles says they’re contracted with Atlanta through 2016 so we get to keep coming back to Atlanta for a while. I just have to say how much I appreciate the great weather we’ve been having. Last year wasn’t quite as nice as I recall.

Listen to my interview with Charles here: Interview with Charles Olentine

2012 International Poultry Expo Photo Album

Coverage of the 2012 International Poultry Expo is sponsored by Novus International

Revived Renewable Fuels

Chuck — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 17:06:15 +0000

While I’m attending IPE Week, Cindy is at today’s Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit. Most of her coverage can be found on Domestic Fuel. Just thought I’d share this first story with you:

Today’s 6th Annual Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit kicked off in Des Moines on Tuesday on a very positive note, considering that 2011 was a record year in the state for both ethanol and biodiesel.

In his annual address to the summit, Iowa Renewable Fuels Association Executive Director Monte Shaw noted that the state’s 41 ethanol plants produced 3.7 billion gallons of ethanol. “If Iowa were a country, it would be the third largest ethanol producer in the world, behind only the rest of the United States and Brazil,” said Shaw.

He also noted that with the return of the biodiesel tax credit in 2011 helped most of Iowa’s biodiesel plants return to production. “Ten Iowa biodiesel plants operated during 2011 produced a record 169 million gallons,” said Shaw.

However, Shaw noted that the challenges facing biofuels are just as strong as ever. “I know it’s hard to believe, but not everyone in America enjoys the renewable fuels success story,” he said, outlining the attacks against ethanol in particular by the food and oil industries. “Today the oil industry enjoys billions of dollars in tax subsidies while the renewable fuels industry has none,” said Shaw, proceeding to name off all of the subsides unique to the oil industry.

Shaw outlined the priority issues for the renewable fuels industry in 2012 as getting the biodiesel tax credit reinstated, keeping the Renewable Fuel Standard in place, and getting E15 commercially available.

Listen to Shaw’s address to the 6th annual Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit here: IRFA Executive Director Monte Shaw address

2012 Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit Photos

Cattle Industry Convention Hashtag Controversy

Chuck — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 18:16:50 +0000

Who would have thought that we’d have a “controversy” over the Twitter hashtag for the Cattle Industry Convention? Really? Well, it might not be a full blown controversy but it’s at least interesting. The official hashtag is #CIC12. Makes sense. The CIC is not just one organization. You’ve got the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), the American National CattleWomen (ANCW) and Cattlemen’s Beef Board (CBB). To create a hashtag that only highlights one of them doesn’t seem fair and isn’t really descriptive of the event itself. I’m hoping it’s not being done to irritate or exclude the other organizations that participate in this industry event.

But apparently a number of folks are using #NCBA12 and have been questioning the decision to have the official hashtag be #CIC12. If I remember correctly, the NCBA letters may have been used in a previous convention. But that was then. We’re talking about now. A time when we’re seeing much needed unity within the industry and these organizations. So let’s use #CIC12. Okay.

The beauty and sometimes frustration of the web is that we’re all free to do what we want though. So you can use whatever hashtag you want. I’ll be following #CIC12 though and would recommend you do too.

Cattle Producers Raise Money To Feed Steaks To Soldiers

Chuck — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 18:31:50 +0000

Cattle producers raised a lot of money to help the All American Beef Battalion (AABB) feed steaks to our soldiers.

During the Mile High Classic Red Angus Sale on Sunday, Jan. 8, in Denver, Colo., joint owners of the bull, Crs Diamnd 21 Gun Salute, donated him back to the cause and raised another $24,250 for AABB – totaling nearly $37,000 raised for the project including the bull’s original sale and donations.

Pictured are (Left to right) Red Angus breeders Barry Horsley and Cheramie Viator presented a check to National Guard Sgt. Dave Callahan who represented all the soldiers who benefit from the All American Beef Battalion steak feeds. Jim Odle (right), purchased possession of the bull, 21 Gun Salute.

Cattle Industry Convention & NCBA Mobile App

Chuck — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 15:35:02 +0000

The Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA announce their first-ever mobile app. Yep, cowboys do smart phones don’t you know? Here’s what Mike Deering, NCBA Communications, has to say about it.

“Cattlemen may not be on the computer much but they have certainly embraced smart phones. The smart phone application was designed specifically for the annual convention. It will give participants useful information about meeting locations, speakers and more. The app can also be used by media and by people not able to attend the convention. We will be posting news and information constantly.”

So you need to get the app for the Cattle Industry Convention & NCBA Trade Show which will be held Feb. 1-4th. It’s now available for download for the iPhone, Android and BlackBerry. The Cattle Industry Convention & NCBA App gives its users access to everything the oldest cattle business convention has to offer.

The CIC & NCBA mobile app is a free download and features an interactive exhibitor map and listings, seminars and speakers, schedules to help plan your trip to the largest cattle business convention! The CIC & NCBA app will also provide you with digital information from exhibitors, text alerts, product updates and instant connectivity, all right in the palm of your hand.

It’s on my iPhone! Get it now.

Florida NAMA Meets USFRA

Chuck — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 23:28:30 +0000

Cindy and I are nearing the end of vacation (working) time in Florida but are too far away from Orlando to attend today’s Florida NAMA chapter meeting. But thanks to Gary Cooper’s, Southeast AgNet, iPhone we did get a picture to share.

Guest speaking to the Florida NAMA chapter was Hugh Whaley, USFRA. As I understad it there were nearly 50 in attendance. That’s a fantastic turnout. It’s great to see this chapter that I was once a founding member of doing well!

Last week I met Florida Chapter President Lyn Cacella, Farm Credit. We spoke about the Agri-Marketing Conference coming to Jacksonville, FL in 2014 and the chapter is already working on some ideas for us during our time in the sunshine state. Listen in on my conversation with Lyn and learn more about how Florida NAMA is doing: Lyn Cacella Interview

If your chapter has an event please send along a photo to share here on AgWired and let us know how it’s going. We’d like to feature you.

Name The Egg Man

Chuck — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 22:49:39 +0000

It’s almost time for the International Poultry Expo. The U.S. Poultry & Egg Association is working with the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau to help name their eggman logo for the upcoming trade show. So Atlanta community and beyond. Want to help come up with a creative name and maybe win a cool prize (iPad)?

On-line name submissions open at http://www.atlanta.net/ipe/featherfest_namethategg.aspx on Monday, January 16, 2012 at midnight and close at Midnight, January 19, 2012.

A selection committee comprised of 3 representatives from the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau and 2 from the International Poultry Expo will review the submissions on January 20, 2012, selecting 5 finalists.

Each entry will be time stamped. If a duplicate name is submitted by more than one entrant and chosen as the winner, the person with the earliest time stamp will be chosen as the winner.

Participants can submit more than one name.

Finalists will then be posted online at at http://www.atlanta.net/ipe/featherfest_namethategg.aspx wherein internet voting will be open to the general public beginning at 12:01 a.m., January 20. Additionally, attendees to the International Poultry Expo will be able to turn in written ballots.

Voting will cease at 11:59 p.m. on January 25, 2012. At that time the finalist with the most votes will be declared the winner. The winner will be announced the morning of January 26, 2012.

Prize: One (1) Apple iPad (16 mB, wi-fi) will be awarded.

Cotton’s First Forty Days

Chuck — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 16:37:17 +0000

One of the resources available to cotton growers from the National Cotton Council is a pair of booklets on best management practices. They’re titled “The First 40 Days” and “Fruiting to Finish,” (pdf) To learn more about this project I spoke with Bill Robertson, Manager, Cotton Agronomy, Soils and Physiology, pictured toward the right in this photo.

Bill says these documents are the result of a significant amount of work. After producing the first booklet on early crop care the second one was produced. They’re both available on the National Cotton Council website. Bill says those first forty days are critical for the cotton crop. An example of one of the issues the information deals with is weed problems including resistance. He says starting clean and staying clean is the name of the game.

Listen in to my interview with Bill here to find out more about the information available in these resources: Interview with Bill Robertson

2012 Beltwide Cotton Conferences Photo Album

AgWired coverage of 2012 Beltwide Cotton Conference is sponsored by

A Look At This Year’s Beltwide Cotton Conferences

Chuck — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 17:53:26 +0000

This year’s Beltwide Cotton Conferences attracted about the same size crowd as last year according to National Cotton Council Vice President of Producer Affairs, Craig Brown. I sat down with Craig to find out how he thought things were going and to talk about upcoming format changes for the annual event.

Craig says this is the second year they have shortened the production conference and added more seminars and educational sessions. There are a lot of them! Workshops were very well attended and in fact Craig says they had to add chairs to some of them. He mentioned the social media sessions which is a first. As Craig puts it, “everyone here’s got something strapped to their hip,” referring to all the smartphones in use. It sounds like the Cotton Council is getting ready to go more “social!”

We also discussed the major changes coming to Beltwide after next year’s event. Starting in 2014 Beltwide will only be a 1 1/2 day event without the production conference and trade show. It’ll focus in on technical sessions. This decision has come after a lot of study and thought during the last couple years.

To learn more about the changes coming to the Beltwide listen in to this week’s program: Beltwide Cotton Conferences

Thanks to our ZimmCast sponsor, GROWMARK, locally owned, globally strong, for their support.

The ZimmCast is the official weekly podcast of AgWired. Subscribe so you can listen when and where you want. Just go to our Subscribe page.

2012 Beltwide Cotton Conferences Photo Album

AgWired coverage of 2012 Beltwide Cotton Conference is sponsored by

2012 Cotton Market Outlook

Chuck — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 14:38:39 +0000

We’ve had a look back at the cotton industry in 2011 but how about 2012? At the Beltwide Cotton Conferences we got that outlook from J. Michael Quinn, Carolinas Cotton Growers Cooperative.

He started with a look at supply and demand. The December acreage projection was down from the November report. December had a significant slow down in mill use of cotton but expectations are for that to improve. The export outlook is kind of a mixed bag with the possible impacts very much up in the air at this point. One of those impacts is world economic conditions and a lot of uncertainty right now. Exports are good though. Michael has a lot of great information in his report.

Listen in to Micheal’s report in its entirety here: 2012 Cotton Market Outlook

2012 Beltwide Cotton Conferences Photo Album

AgWired coverage of 2012 Beltwide Cotton Conference is sponsored by

2011 Cotton Year In Review

Chuck — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 14:24:21 +0000

How did things go in the cotton industry in 2011? The answers were included in a Beltwide Cotton Conferences general session presentation by Dr. David Wright, University of Florida. Florida wound up the 13th largest cotton growing state last year as an fyi.

David says there was just too much that happened in 2011 to cover it all but he hit on the highlights. He says expectations were high at the beginning of the season due to the high price of cotton. Projections were for increased acreage. However, the harvest was significantly lower than expected. The problem was the loss of about a third of the cotton planted. It was a wild weather year!

Listen in to David’s report in its entirety here: 2011 Cotton Year In Review

2012 Beltwide Cotton Conferences Photo Album

AgWired coverage of 2012 Beltwide Cotton Conference is sponsored by

Welcome To Beltwide Cotton Production Conference

Chuck — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 16:03:06 +0000

Missouri cotton farmer and Chairman of the National Cotton Council Charles Parker welcomed everyone to the 2012 Beltwide Cotton Conferences. His remarks kicked off the Beltwide Cotton Production Conference.

Besides talking about this year’s conference Charles talked about the activities of the National Cotton Council during 2011.

Following the opening remarks we heard about weather patterns in the cotton belt, a review of the 2011 season and an outlook for 2012 as well as other topics. I’ll have more on those presentations as soon as I get time.

You can listen to the opening remarks here: Charles Parker Welcome Remarks

2012 Beltwide Cotton Conferences Photo Album

AgWired coverage of 2012 Beltwide Cotton Conference is sponsored by

The Environmental Footprint of Cotton

Chuck — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 13:49:45 +0000

At the 2012 Beltwide Cotton Conferences the media received a preview of the Cotton Life Cycle Inventory & Life Cycle Assessment. This is a benchmark study for cotton sustainability.

Cotton Incorporated announced today the completion of a comprehensive life cycle inventory and life cycle analysis of cotton products. The endeavor is part of the Cotton Foundation VISION 21 Project and included the participation of the National Cotton Council, Cotton Council International and Cotton Incorporated. The two-year study, managed by PE International, was designed to establish current and accurate benchmarks of potential environmental impacts across the global cotton supply chain. The peer-reviewed data and assessment methodology will help direct sustainability research efforts for the cotton industry, as well as to aid textile decision-makers in achieving their own sustainability goals.

To learn more about the study I spoke with our presenter, J. Berrye Worsham, President/CEO, Cotton, Inc. He says they wanted to have a sense of the environmental footprint of cotton from “cradle to grave.” That’s what this study has accomplished and the results can be found on their website. Berrye says the study is now a tool for the industry since there are companies conducting their own life cycle assessments. As a benchmark, it will be valuable for making comparisons when it is done again in a few years. The study found ways that the industry and even consumers can improve the footprint of cotton. In the case of consumers an example would be doing more cold water washing and less use of dryers to dry clothes. You can hear more about the study in my interview with Berrye: Interview with Berrye Worsham

I’ve also got a photo album started from the conference: 2012 Beltwide Cotton Conferences Photo Album

AgWired coverage of 2012 Beltwide Cotton Conference is sponsored by

Looking Ahead To Beltwide Cotton Conference

Chuck — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 13:28:00 +0000

The first stop on the agriblogging highway for the ZimmComm team will be the 2012 Beltwide Cotton Conference in Orlando, FL. I’ll be attending courtesy of our sponsor, FMC. I’ll be getting there after going to the Gator Bowl in Jacksonville, FL with daughter Chelsea. Great new year’s week coming up!

The Beltwide Cotton Conferences (BWCC) speed the transfer of new technology to U.S. cotton producers and other industry members with the goal of strengthening U.S. cotton’s competitive position in the world marketplace and enhancing industry members’ profitability.

Coordinated by the National Cotton Council (NCC) and its cooperating partners, this annual forum is recognized as the global champion for cotton technology transfer. Four days of individual reports, panel discussions, hands-on workshops and seminars are designed to enlighten industry members about the latest research developments and their practical applications in cotton production and processing.

St. Louis Agribusiness Club

Chuck — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 21:46:00 +0000

The St. Louis Agribusiness Club has gone through a number of changes since it was started many years ago. To learn how things are going with this unique organization I spoke with the current leadership.

Here’s Molly Cline, President and Wendell Knehans, Vice President. We visited at last week’s regular club meeting. Molly says this is the 30th year for the club and it shows how important it is to people involved in the agricultural production chain to get together. Wendell says the club membership has transitioned from primarily farmers to primarily those involved in agribusinesses of various types.

Listen to our conversation in this week’s ZimmCast and learn more about the organization: Conversation With St. Louis Ag Club

Thanks to our ZimmCast sponsor, GROWMARK, locally owned, globally strong, for their support.

The ZimmCast is the official weekly podcast of AgWired. Subscribe so you can listen when and where you want. Just go to our Subscribe page.

BASF Sponsors ASA Educational Podcasts

Chuck — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 21:00:16 +0000

BASF is sponsoring a series of educational podcasts for the American Soybean Association. Here are three currently in the list that you might be interested in:

This podcast recaps the 2011 soybean growing season with BASF Technical Market Manager, Nick Fassler. Developed by the American Soybean Association, this educational podcast is designed to provide growers with the latest information about soybean production, including ways to maximize their soybean yields. Fassler reviews harvest results and factors affecting this year’s soybean production.

Listen: ASA Educational Podcast - Season Review

This podcast, developed by the American Soybean Association, provides soybean growers with tips on how to get the most out of every acre for the upcoming 2012 growing season. Nick Fassler, BASF Technical Market Manager, provides growers with the latest information about soybean production, including proactive management strategies to prevent challenging disease outbreaks throughout the season.

Listen: ASA Educational Podcast - 2012 Tips

Implementing a complete weed management program that incorporates multiple sites of action is a key way to keep resistant weeds at bay and prevent them from damaging yields. In this educational podcast from the American Soybean Association, BASF Technical Market Manager Dr. Dan Westberg discusses the important role that planning and other best practices will play in the future of weed resistance prevention.

Listen: ASA Educational Podcast - Weed Resistance Prevention

Seasons Greetings From U.S. Wheat Associates

Chuck — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 15:21:54 +0000

Here’s a multi-lingual greeting from our friends at U.S. Wheat Associates.

AgChat Foundation Hires Executive Director

Chuck — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 17:18:10 +0000

Big news from the AgChat Foundation today! Welcome Emily Zweber as the first Executive Director. It seems like it has been a long time coming to some of us board members but really, it hasn’t been. In fact, the AgChat Foundation is less than two years old.

So let’s meet Emily:

Zweber, an organic dairy farmer from Elko, Minn., will focus on furthering ACF’s mission of connecting farmers to diverse audiences via social media platforms. She also will provide day-to-day management oversight and fundraising support.
“Emily uses social media every day on the family farming operation, so she’s a great choice for this position,” says Darin Grimm, ACF president. “What began as an all-volunteer outcropping of an agricultural social media movement is growing into a professionally managed organization. Having Emily on board is a real boost.”

Grimm added that ACF’s highly-successful summer thought-leadership and social media training conference is slated to provide more content than ever in its third year, and that additional training programs are planned.

Emily received her bachelor’s degree in agriculture economics and international studies from South Dakota State University and is a University of Minnesota Center for the Study of Policy and Governance Humphrey Policy Fellow. Previously, she has served as the Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom Foundation’s executive director and the Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation’s special programs coordinator. Emily and her husband, Tim, co-own and operate Zweber Farms with Tim’s parents.

Established in 1906, the Zweber farm is a certified organic dairy. The family also runs a successful natural meat business for which Emily coordinates all social media and marketing.

I spoke with Darin and Emily by phone just a few minutes ago. Listen in on our conversation about today’s exciting news and get to know Emily.

Interview with Darin Grimm & Emily Zweber