The Global Value of US Soy

Lizzy Schultz September 16, 2016

Our 300 international attendees were present for the 2016 U.S. Soy Global Trade Exchange held earlier this month in Indianapolis, offering soy growers from across the country the opportunity to engage with an international audience about the value of U.S. Soy.

One attendee who utilized the opportunity to communicate with the international audience was Kevin Scott, a diversified corn and soybean grower who works alongside his brother, nephew, and son on their operation in South Dakota. Scott also holds several different leadership roles within the soybean industry, serving as an American Soybean Association (ASA) Director and a U.S. Soybean Exchange Council (USSEC) Board Member.

“ASA and the USSEC Board are just furthering my education into what the U.S. soybean industry needs as far as talent and the work force are concerned,” said Scott in an interview during the 2016 U.S. Soy Global Trade Exchange. “It’s amazing the things that you learn as you move up in these organizations. I’ve been here quite a while and I’m still not done learning, there is always more to learn.”

Talking with foreign buyers was the main focus for Scott during the event, with his take-home message focused on the universal value that U.S. soybeans can offer.

“It’s the most economical and sustainable product we can use to feed livestock, to feed people, and to feed the world. It’s a wonderful source of protein for the whole world, and our foreign buyers know that,” he said. “It’s really important for us as U.S. producers to show the world how we produce soybeans and highlight our sustainability practices, our multi-generational operations, and all the things that we do to produce the best, safest, and most abundant product we can.”

Listen to Jamie’s full interview with Kevin here:
Interview with Kevin Scott, SD Soybean Grower

View and download photos from the event here: 2016 U.S. Soy Global Trade Exchange Photo Album

Ag Groups, Agribusiness, Audio, International, Soybean, Trade, USSEC

CNH Reman’s Commitment to Different & Better Parts

Jamie Johansen September 16, 2016

CNH Reman in Springfield, MO is one of only two CNH Industrial remanufacturing facilities globally. That means parts from around the world come to Southwest Missouri to be taken apart and built back better. The task of making sure all those components are met and operations run smoothly goes to Dave Reader, operations manager for CNH Reman.

Dave said they remanufacture about 3,000 different parts numbers including engines, fuel, transmissions, hydraulics, electronics and turbos. Basically everything that makes since they remanufacture.

“Within Reman, everything comes back down to the component level. We disassemble everything and it’s cleaned thoroughly. Cleaning technologies vary for the products. Then it is measured back to the original criteria and accepted or rejected based on that information, repaired where possible, reassembled and finally tested back to OEM specifications.”

A focus on quality was highlighted throughout my tour of the facilities. And quality starts with well trained employees. Dave said they are looking for two things when hiring skilled laborers and those are work ethic and aptitude. “When they come in we have foundational training which includes key aspects of the business. Then they build upon that within each individual product line. Everything is done through work instructions. Often they start in the disassembly area allowing them to become familiar with the products in a general sense.”

In my complete interview with Dave you can learn how each part is looked at from an investment standpoint to determine the amount of money put into the right parts of each product and a bit about how he sees the future of remanufacturing. Interview with Dave Reader, CNH Reman

View and download photos from the event here: CNH Reman Photo Album

Agribusiness, Audio, Case IH, Equipment, Farm Machinery, New Holland

I AM @USFRA – Janna Stubbs of Texas

Cindy Zimmerman September 16, 2016

Janna Stubbs from Alpine, Texas is a cow-calf operator who serves on the Cattlemens’ Beef Board executive committee and is all about telling agriculture’s story to the general public.

“I married into this 14 years ago and I really enjoy being a part of agriculture and the cattle industry,” Janna says. “I feel like I’m always my husband’s voice because he’s always out working.”

As an active volunteer for the beef industry, Janna was involved with the American National CattleWomen as chair of consumer education and promotion in 2011-2012 when the U.S. Farmers and Ranchers Alliance (USFRA) was just getting started. “I was asked to be part of the leadership retreat in Chicago for USFRA through American National CattleWomen,” she said. “I have seen from that time a huge growth – it’s been magnificent.”

Janna’s favorite USFRA program is the Faces of Farming and Ranching. “Programs like this put us out there so we can answer the questions (that consumers have),” said Janna. “If we don’t tell our story, someone else is going to and it’s not going to be right.”

Learn more about why Janna supports USFRA in this interview: Interview with Janna Stubbs of Texas

Audio, Beef, USFRA

Wow What a Concept from New Holland – NHDrive

Chuck Zimmerman September 16, 2016

It’s two tractors in one which gives you maximum flexibility. It’s the NHDrive concept tractor from New Holland. Just announced at the Farm Progress Show this machine has the capability to be driven with the attached cab just like a normal tractor. But can also run driverless and be controlled by a portable device or computer.

I spoke with Bret Lieberman, Vice President, North America, New Holland, to get his thoughts on what this means for customers. It’s all about new technology that will help customers. “How can we make them be more productive and do a better job in the work that they do everyday and are committed to in their lifestyle,” says Lieberman.

The NHDrive concept tractor is equipped with a seeder, and is able to autonomously seed the next crop straight behind the combine. Using an application installed on a portable device, perfect for supervised automation, such as an operator driving a combine, or on a desktop computer, perfect for the farmer working in his farm office, the tractor and implement parameters can be continually monitored and controlled, and changes can be made if necessary.

Able to work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, the NHDrive tractor helps to reduce the risks associated with human error as it follows predetermined and optimised plans for all activities. It is able to reach higher levels of productivity and efficiency than traditional methods. The NHDrive can make full use of the periods of favourable weather for farming operations by working day and night.

In the future, the NHDrive tractor will be able to completely automate grain handling during the harvest when equipped with a trailer, including unloading, transport and offloading activities.

Listen to my interview with Bret here: Interview with Bret Lieberman, New Holland

New Holland at 2016 Farm Progress Show Photos

Coverage of the Farm Progress Show is sponsored by

Agribusiness, Audio, Farm Progress Show, New Holland, Technology, Tractor, Video

New Propane Tractor Prototype from New Holland

Joanna Schroeder September 16, 2016

For ten years, New Holland’s brand position has been as a Clean Energy Leader and the company didn’t disappoint at this year’s Farm Progress Show with the launch of the third-generation Alternative Fuels Tractor prototype that is powered by propane autogas. I got all the details about the cutting-edge tractor from New Holland’s Mike Cornman who said the concept tractor can also be adapted to run on bio-propane, bio-methane or methane itself. Cornman said they decided on propane as the preferred alternative fuel, in part, because of some of its advantages.

One key factor when you compare a tractor burning propane versus a tractor burning diesel, says Cornman, includes a 20 to 40 percent savings on fuel costs per year. “It’s also producing up to 80 percent less pollutants up in the atmosphere with propane versus diesel. So it really fits well with us being the clean energy leader standpoint while being able to provide a benefit to the operators utilizing propane rather than diesel.”

New Holland’s baseline tractors are the T-6 series tractors and when they compare diesel versus propane, they found very similar performance in terms of horsepower and engine torque. The company has provided several customer clinics where they have conducted various exercises that included pooling, front end loader use, among others, and found that the propane powered tractor performed just as well as compared to a tractor fueled by diesel. “So there’s no real sacrifices that an operator would be giving up in purchasing a propane tractor over diesel,” Cornman adds.

I asked Cornman how a grower would fill the Alternative Fuels Tractor knowing that many growers have propane tanks on their farms for use in other capacities. He explained that one challenge of the propane concept tractor is that it takes more space for the propane autogas, i.e. the tractor needs a larger fuel tank. So New Holland designed a fitted tank to carry the propane. In addition, Cornman says the fill technology has evolved to a quick-fill type nozzle making it easy for the operator to re-fill the tank with propane.

Cornman said that moving forward New Holland will hold several more customer clinics to get additional feedback and they will also assess market opportunities. He also says that growers interested in the propane autogas powered tractor can call their local dealer for more information. And while there is no set date on commercialization, Cornman anticipates the Alternative Fuels Tractor will go into production in the near future.

Learn more about New Holland’s Alternative Fuels Tractor concept by listening to my interview with Mike Cornman: Interview with New Holland's Mike Cornman on Propane Tractor

New Holland 2016 Farm Progress Photo Album

2016 Farm Progress Show Photos

Coverage of the Farm Progress Show is sponsored by

Agribusiness, Audio, Equipment, Farm Progress Show, New Holland, Propane

#USSoy – A People to People Business

Jamie Johansen September 15, 2016

A fifth generation farmer from North Dakota, Bob Metz, is proud to say all four of his children are all involved in production agriculture. Bob’s a soybean grower, current United Soybean Board Director and former U.S. Soybean Export Council member, who is truly passing on his passion and commitment to agriculture for generations to come. I met him at the 2016 U.S. Soy Global Trade Exchange where U.S. soybean growers gathered with agribusinesses from around the world to talk why U.S. soy.

“It’s actually the second time I have retired from USSEC. USSEC has been very valuable and is an amazing organization. We have people in approximately 80 different countries around the world. Consultants who are from the country they work in, so they understand the culture and the issues. They work for us, the American soybean farmer, helping us make our customers more profitable. There is something about a people to people business.”

Bob said he wants buyers of U.S. soy to understand that they are getting a premium with their purchase. This event was just one example of the support buyers receive. Not only were attendees able to meet the growers, they visited their farms, they toured loading facilities at the Gulf or Pacific and gathered an understanding of how GM crops give them a good, clean, safe soybean.

Listen to my complete interview with Bob here: Interview with Bob Metz, ND Soybean Farmer

View and download photos from the event here: 2016 US Soy Global Trade Exchange Photos

Ag Groups, Exports, Soybean, Trade, USSEC

New Two-Wheel Drive T6 Series Tractor from New Holland

Chuck Zimmerman September 15, 2016

New Holland introduced a new two-wheel-drive version of its premium T6 series tractor, available starting first quarter, 2017. At the recent Farm Progress Show Michael Cornman, New Holland Agriculture Segment Marketing Manager – Under 140 HP Tractors, talked with farm journalists about the new model.

The 2WD version offers enhanced maneuverability on two wheels for sharper turning, making it perfect for flat to rolling hill work, including hay making, mowing and roadside fleet applications. Removing the 4WD feature allows for a reduction in purchase price while still offering best-in-class mid-range tractor benefits like the ultra-quiet VisionView™ cab and optional ComfortRide™ cab suspension.

“We had a lot of dealers and customers coming to us with this request and are excited to announce that we’ve brought it to life,” said Michael Cornman, Under 140 HP Tractor Segment Marketing Manager. “This new 2WD solution not only fulfills flat land and chore work needs but also comes at a more economical price point.”

Listen to Michael’s presentation here or watch below: Michael Cornman Presentation, New Holland

New Holland at 2016 Farm Progress Show Photos

Coverage of the Farm Progress Show is sponsored by

Agribusiness, Audio, Equipment, Farm Progress Show, New Holland, Tractor, Video

Trust in Remanufacturing – CNH Reman’s Commitment

Jamie Johansen September 15, 2016

Before

Located in Springfield, MO, CNH Reman is a joint venture between CNH Industrial and SRC Holdings Corporation which started in 2009 and has grown into a company with just nine employees to now employing nearly 250. The partnership began because CNH Industrial knew they needed to become more committed to remanufacturing. Allen Shevey, product manager hydraulics, took time to share how CNH Reman has grown and the factors which have contributed to their success in remanufactured parts.

“First and foremost, our products we offer are quality. We make sure our dealers are aware of the commitment made to ensure quality. We want to offer a value that is worth their investment and that is shown through our two-year warranty, which is better than new. We are committed to making sure our product we send to our dealers is the best.”

After

CNH Reman contributes success to a solid warranty, consistent quality, comparable price, dealer support, depot availability and market-driven demand. And don’t forget that every product that heads back to a dealership is tested and retested to ensure it meets all OEM standards.

As an open book management company, every single employee of CNH Reman is involved with meeting that bottom-line each month. “The whole purpose of this is to show people what the numbers are, hold people accountable and show where each person can contribute and make a difference. It keeps everyone extremely engaged with the process and I think that is one reason we have been so successful.”

Listen to my complete interview with Allen to learn more about the business structure of CNH Reman and what the future holds for the remanufacturing industry. Interview with Allen Shevey, CNH Reman

View and download photos from the event here: CNH Reman Photo Album

Agribusiness, Audio, Case IH, Equipment, New Holland

Why You Should Consider an AgriBusiness Career

Joanna Schroeder September 15, 2016

© Florea Paul Daniel | Dreamstime.com - Teacher and students in laboratory

A career in agribusiness may not be high on your list of things to do, but if you have grown up in a farming community, it’s a natural route. While it helps to have a good understanding of the agricultural business, an in-depth knowledge is not necessary. People working in agribusiness pursue a wide range of different careers, from helping farmers in sub-Saharan Africa develop a sustainable business to managing cattle ranches in Virginia.

It’s never too early to start thinking about a career. Most people start to consider their options when they are making the transition from high school to college, so if you are currently weighing up whether to study for a science degree followed by a master of science in nursing, now is a good time to consider a career in agribusiness and open your horizons a bit wider.

Education vs. Practical Experience
There is no doubt that experience in agriculture will stand you in good stead, whether that comes from working on a farm or growing up in a farming community, but don’t dismiss the benefits of education. Formal education is the best route into a career in agribusiness. Practical hands-on experience is highly beneficial, but a strong degree in a related field of study combined with experience will help you achieve your career ambitions more quickly.

Different Career Pathways
There are several different degree pathways students interested in a career in agribusiness should consider, but a BS in Agribusiness, or a closely related field is a good place to start. For most degrees in agribusiness, courses last for four years and cover a wide variety of topics, including agricultural economics, farm product marketing and agribusiness management. This will give you a good grounding in the basics you will need if you want to start a new agricultural business or manage an existing business.

Career Advancement Opportunities
If you have ambitions to move up the management ladder within the field of agribusiness, it’s a good idea to study for a masters in agribusiness. As with any master’s program, you can expect to study related topics at a more in-depth level. Masters of agribusiness courses typically cover topics such as financial agricultural management, public policy and international marketing, so this would be a smart choice if you want to work for a global agribusiness company. Some data suggests that agribusiness job opportunities are in decline, but this is a highly diverse field of employment and there are always jobs available for the right candidates. If you have a talent for agribusiness and a willingness to work hard in your chosen field of study, you should have no problem earning a good annual salary, particularly if you strive for a senior management role.

Top universities offering degrees in agribusiness include Cornell, Iowa State, University of Georgia and Michigan State University. You may also wish to investigate online degree courses, such as a masters of science in nursing online, which are more flexible than traditional full-time courses. And for those already looking for agribusiness internships or jobs, be sure to check out AgCareers.com or AgExplorer.com.

Agribusiness

New @JohnDeere Nozzles for 2018

Kelly Marshall September 15, 2016

Lydia Thomas is a Product Manger for John Deere, and she’s just the person to talk to if you’re wanting information about John Deere’s new exact apply intelligent nozzle system. I caught up with her at the Farm Progress Show to hear how John Deere has brought a new approach to their traditional sprayer, adding industry exclusives that help growers get the job done.

The John Deere booth included a 120 foot boom, as well as a display spray stand to help demonstrate all the features. The intelligent system means each nozzle gets individual control, but beyond that the system includes 30 hertz pulsing to provide a consistent application throughout a field. LED lights mean applicators can get started earlier and worker later, getting the work they need accomplished when they need to accomplish it. Nozzle switching allows the user to turn off pulsing when necessary and allow for a wider range of working speeds, so you can get a field covered faster.

Customers are excited to get their hands on this technology, and Thomas says the wait won’t last much longer. This nozzle will be an option on 2018 sprayer models.

“JD is dedicate to precision agriculture,” Thomas told me. “We have a factory installed solution for them, so they can have a green-on-green solution.”

Hear Lydia’s in-depth interview here to learn more: Interview with Lydia Thomas, John Deere

2016 Farm Progress Show Photos

Agribusiness, Audio, Equipment, John Deere

Page 588 of 2,375
←
1
...
587
588
589
...
2375
→