Here is another update on what is going on at the General Session here at Commodity Classic. Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns just spoke on his past year in office. He started off his speech by commenting that he was nervous about speaking to this audience so he asked his wife what he should do. She said “Mike, don’t try to be sophisticated or charming….just be yourself.”

Secretary Johanns emphasized the importance of continuing to find markets for corn and soybeans. He mentioned the free trade agreement between the United States and the Columbia that will give more opportunities for corn and soybean farmers to market their crop.

He noted that farm net income has increased $90 billion a year over the past three years. 27% of U.S. cash receipts come from trade. 1in 3 acres of U.S. land is planted for the export market. Because we are so productive we must look to the future. U.S. Ag activity is outpacing consumption. Population and consumption grows 1% a year.

Secretary Johanns also talked extensively on the upcoming Farmbill. He mentioned the 52 listening sessions that he held to hear from farmers on what they think.

“We need to live by the rules that we expect everyone else to live by.” Johanns commented.

One of the most important issues was the need for the United States to use their own natural resources, such as corn and soybeans for fuel. Johanns predicted that Ethanol will make up 22% of the corn production in 2010. Lets hope he’s right.

Chuck recorded the speech this morning and has most of it available here for you to listen to: Johanns Speech (21:59 MP3 File)

A message from Dr. Jay Lehr followed Secretary Johanns and a performance by Michael Peterson finished up the show. Peterson noted that he has started a new youth program and that the FFA are working with New Holland to sell his CD as a fundraiser at the tradeshow downstairs.