The year has flown by and we're thrilled at all of the accomplishments and wins for Illinois farmers. If you're a member of the IL Corn Growers Association you receive weekly news e-mails with what's going on with all things corn and farming. If you missed a week or aren't an IL Corn Grower member check out this past year highlights:
Bloomington, IL – The presidents of 23 state corn grower groups, joined by the president of the National Corn Growers Association, sent a letter to President Biden today calling for him to take additional steps to address the pending decree by Mexico that would block imports of biotech corn. Matt Rush of Fairfield, IL and the IL Corn Growers Association President was among the letter’s signatories. “Mexico is the top export destination for U.S. corn, and exports are the number one market for Illinois corn. As a corn farmer who represents thousands of corn farmers in our state, we must do everything possible to preserve and grow this market. The U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) contains provisions that ensure the partners use rely on sound science when developing restrictions on trade. The biotech corn embargo the Mexican administration has proposed is clearly not based in science and must be rejected. The Biden administration must act now to enforce the USMCA trade agreement and give U.S. corn farmers and industry on both sides of the border some certainty,” said Rush. The letter encouraged the president to raise the issue during upcoming trade talks and to file a dispute under the USMCA if Mexico doesn’t act expeditiously to withdraw the decree. “Corn farmers are right now in the process of making planting decisions for next spring, and any additional uncertainty in the market affects their ability to appropriately respond to multiple market signals,” the corn farmer leaders said within the letter. “If the decree is not completely withdrawn by the established deadline, we ask that your administration initiate a case under USMCA.” The letter is in response to a promise by President López Obrador to end imports of biotech corn beginning in early 2024. Ninety percent of corn grown in the U.S. is biotech corn. Mexico’s Foreign Secretary Marcelo Ebrard plans to visit Washington this week to discuss the issue ahead of a planned meeting on trade between Biden, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in early January. The state corn farmer leaders urged Biden to raise the issue at the meeting. “Because the stakes for farmers and rural America are so high, we are calling on you to make this issue a critical part of your January 9th meeting with President López Obrador and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau,” the letter says. The letter also detailed specific actions the president could take in the coming days. “We are also asking that you empower Ambassador Katherine Tai to work with Secretary Vilsack to set a firm, quick timeline with Mexico to withdraw the decree or initiate a case under the biotechnology provisions of the USMCA, and that you do so without agreeing to a ban of any form of biotech corn, including white corn that is used for human consumption,” the group noted. The letter also emphasized the science supporting the safe use of biotech corn. “Decades of science show that biotech corn is safe for use,” the letter says. “Growers plant biotech corn, which is reviewed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and regulatory agencies around the world, because it saves money, reduces the use of insecticides and lowers carbon emissions. This technology also allows corn growers to plant seeds that are resistant to severe weather conditions caused by climate change.” The letter notes that the ban would have an impact on the Mexican people, noting a recently released study showing that it could lead to increased food insecurity in the country – especially among the working class – for whom corn is a major staple. U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack traveled to Mexico City in late November to meet with President López Obrador about the issue, a development that was widely praised by corn growers. Vilsack emphasized during that meeting that minus a reasonable agreement, the U.S. would take action, including filing a complaint under USMCA. Corn growers have since pushed the administration for faster action. ### About the IL Corn Growers Association IL Corn Growers Association is a state-based organization that represents the interests of corn farmers in Illinois, maintaining a high profile on issues in Washington, DC, and Springfield, IL. Through grassroots advocacy, ICGA creates a future for Illinois farmers in which they can operate freely, responsibly, and successfully. In order to fulfill this mission, the organization conducts governmental affairs activities at all levels, market development projects, and educational and member service programs. For further information regarding their work and involvement, visit their website www.ilcorn.org.
A coalition of Illinois farm associations are joining together to make 2023 the Year of the Farmer with a statewide campaign that launches February 12 during football’s biggest game. The message? Ninety-six percent of Illinois farms are family owned and operated. Research tells us that non-farmers would put this number closer to 50 percent. In fact, others in Illinois think that about 47 percent of farms are family owned, with 53 percent being corporately controlled. That’s a statistic that – though untrue – concerns a lot of our neighbors because they aren’t sure they trust the decisions a corporation would make for Illinois’s exceedingly fertile resources.
Washington, DC -- Last night, the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2022 passed in the Senate by a vote of 83-11. It was included as part of the FY23 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The bill passed in the House of Representatives on December 8. The bill now heads to the President for his signature into law. WRDA 2022, which remains on a biennial schedule in Congress, authorizes 33 Chief’s Reports and includes a policy provision that makes permanent the 65% general revenues/35% Inland Waterways Trust Fund (IWTF) cost-share for lock and dam construction and major rehabilitation projects, a win for Waterways Council, Inc. (WCI) and its members. 65%/35% was established in WRDA 2020 as the cost-sharing formula that was set to expire in 2031, at which time the cost-share would return to the former formula of a 50%/50% split between the general fund and IWTF. The 65%/35% ratio would allow IWTF dollars to help finance more projects than under the 50%/50% cost-share. In addition to removing the cost-share sunset provision, WRDA 2022 provided flexibility to manage the Houston Ship Channel Barge Lanes. Originally authorized at 12 feet, these barge lanes have presented navigation challenges for mariners on that part of the system. Through working with both committees and the Corps, WCI successfully included language in WRDA 2022 that will allow the Corps to dredge these channels to a depth deemed safe for navigation. “Waterways Council, Inc. thanks the House and Senate for passing WRDA 2022 and appreciates its continued support of the biennial process for this important legislation,” said Tracy Zea, WCI President and CEO. “This final version comes months after negotiations to reconcile House- and Senate- passed versions, and WCI thanks the chairs and ranking members, as well as all committee members for their dedication to passing WRDA. The removal of the sunset provision is critical to the Nation to ensure continued reliability of our inland waterways as a transportation conduit, moving products all Americans rely on.” IL Corn is delighted to hear this news. Illinois farmers export 50.9% of corn out of state. The increased federal investment in our waterways infrastructure is a huge gain for IL farmers. A special thanks to Senator Duckworth for her leadership making the cost-share permanent. Waterways Council, Inc. is the national public policy organization advocating for a modern and well-maintained national system of ports and inland waterways. The group is supported by waterways carriers, shippers, port authorities, agriculture, labor and conservation organizations, shipping associations and waterways advocacy groups from all regions of the country. Visit www.waterwayscouncil.org
Bloomington, IL – The presidents of 23 state corn grower groups, joined by the president of the National Corn Growers Association, sent a letter to President Biden today calling for him to take additional steps to address the pending decree by Mexico that would block imports of biotech corn. Matt Rush of Fairfield, IL and the IL Corn Growers Association President was among the letter’s signatories. “Mexico is the top export destination for U.S. corn, and exports are the number one market for Illinois corn. As a corn farmer who represents thousands of corn farmers in our state, we must do everything possible to preserve and grow this market. The U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) contains provisions that ensure the partners use rely on sound science when developing restrictions on trade. The biotech corn embargo the Mexican administration has proposed is clearly not based in science and must be rejected. The Biden administration must act now to enforce the USMCA trade agreement and give U.S. corn farmers and industry on both sides of the border some certainty,” said Rush. The letter encouraged the president to raise the issue during upcoming trade talks and to file a dispute under the USMCA if Mexico doesn’t act expeditiously to withdraw the decree. “Corn farmers are right now in the process of making planting decisions for next spring, and any additional uncertainty in the market affects their ability to appropriately respond to multiple market signals,” the corn farmer leaders said within the letter. “If the decree is not completely withdrawn by the established deadline, we ask that your administration initiate a case under USMCA.” The letter is in response to a promise by President López Obrador to end imports of biotech corn beginning in early 2024. Ninety percent of corn grown in the U.S. is biotech corn. Mexico’s Foreign Secretary Marcelo Ebrard plans to visit Washington this week to discuss the issue ahead of a planned meeting on trade between Biden, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in early January. The state corn farmer leaders urged Biden to raise the issue at the meeting. “Because the stakes for farmers and rural America are so high, we are calling on you to make this issue a critical part of your January 9th meeting with President López Obrador and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau,” the letter says. The letter also detailed specific actions the president could take in the coming days. “We are also asking that you empower Ambassador Katherine Tai to work with Secretary Vilsack to set a firm, quick timeline with Mexico to withdraw the decree or initiate a case under the biotechnology provisions of the USMCA, and that you do so without agreeing to a ban of any form of biotech corn, including white corn that is used for human consumption,” the group noted. The letter also emphasized the science supporting the safe use of biotech corn. “Decades of science show that biotech corn is safe for use,” the letter says. “Growers plant biotech corn, which is reviewed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and regulatory agencies around the world, because it saves money, reduces the use of insecticides and lowers carbon emissions. This technology also allows corn growers to plant seeds that are resistant to severe weather conditions caused by climate change.” The letter notes that the ban would have an impact on the Mexican people, noting a recently released study showing that it could lead to increased food insecurity in the country – especially among the working class – for whom corn is a major staple. U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack traveled to Mexico City in late November to meet with President López Obrador about the issue, a development that was widely praised by corn growers. Vilsack emphasized during that meeting that minus a reasonable agreement, the U.S. would take action, including filing a complaint under USMCA. Corn growers have since pushed the administration for faster action. ### About the IL Corn Growers Association IL Corn Growers Association is a state-based organization that represents the interests of corn farmers in Illinois, maintaining a high profile on issues in Washington, DC, and Springfield, IL. Through grassroots advocacy, ICGA creates a future for Illinois farmers in which they can operate freely, responsibly, and successfully. In order to fulfill this mission, the organization conducts governmental affairs activities at all levels, market development projects, and educational and member service programs. For further information regarding their work and involvement, visit their website www.ilcorn.org.
Over the past 16 weeks Peter Metivier has been an intern for IL Corn while still attending. Here is a little bit about his growth with IL Corn. Unlike other FFA members, Peter didn't grow up on a farm. He got involved with FFA because of his previous 4-H experiences. Currently the IL FFA Section 9 President, he coordinates over 13 highschool ag programs in central Illinois. Through FFA, he was able to travel with IL Corn alongside the rest of the Illinois Association FFA State Officer Team to Washington D.C. for Corn Congress. This life changing experience introduced him to IL Corn and his soon to be mentor Lindsay Mitchell (Director of Communications & Marketing for IL Corn).
Looking for a last minute gift idea? First - Don't forget last year's gifts. Then check out 5 gifts related to corn AND 5 gifts to help you on the farm. 5 Gifts Related to Corn in Some Way 1.Corn Plastic Adhesive Organizer Store items in a cute way on the wall in this corn decor. 2.Unique Corn Nibblet Snacks Give this gift to your co-workers, employees or family! They even have an option to customize a label. 3.Popcorn from Your Local Farmer Friend Less than 1% of corn grown in IL is popcorn. Support those local growers. Here's another list. Are you a popcorn farmer and aren't on this list? Contact us so we can add you! 4.Let Fish Feast on Some Fake Corn Check out this cute bait set. 5.Personalized Headbands for Any Occasion These headbands are made from corn plastic. Buy one for Christmas, Birthday, Anniversary or just a Wednesday! 5 Gifts for the Farm 1.21 Tools in Your Pocket A multi-tool you can use on the farm. 2. Hitchsaver This helps with wear and tear when hithing up tillage equipment on your tractor's drawbar. 3.Heavy-Duty Pistol Grip Grease Gun This locks onto the grease zerk. 4.Clamp Meter Use this volt meter with amp clamp to check electric motors around the farm to troubleshoot potential problems. 5.Battery Heated Gloves Make sure you stay warm in cold months with these heated gloves. Thanks to Hastings Farms for help with the on farm gifts!
It has been an incredibly busy year with many interesting twists and turns along the way. As 2022 draws to a close and the mid-term elections are all but wrapped up, we are beginning to gain clarity on what will be in and out as we enter the new year. So, with no further ado, here are my annual ins and outs as we end one year and head into another. Ins: The Farm Bill – The legislation, which governs many of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s programs, is up for reauthorization in 2023. My staff and I, along with our state partners, are working to educate members of Congress about the importance of the farm bill for agriculture. We are already working with our congressional allies to protect and improve programs important to corn growers. Speak up on your priorities, and stay tuned for more updates as the legislative process proceeds. Coalitions – As discussions about the farm bill intensify, we will work with the broad political partnerships that have been built over the years to help advance comprehensive legislation, including agriculture and food provisions. We know that politics can make for strange bedfellows but the more interests we can bring to the table, the more likely we are to be successful. We will also be working with more targeted coalitions, such as the Food and Agriculture Climate Alliance, as the farm bill process gears up. Here’s to working together! New Members of Congress – There will be an influx of new members in the new Congress. Many of these members have not worked on federal agriculture issues. They will be bringing in new staff members, and the committee makeup of the House of Representatives is likely to change. My staff and I will be working to educate new members about our issues, building relationships and fostering bipartisan work. But we are hopeful that some of these new members will come to the table with a baseline understanding of the importance of what corn growers deliver to the American people and the world. After all, it’s corn ! Moderation & Compromise – There has been a lot said about the power of the left-leaning Squad and the conservative Freedom Caucus in the House, but American voters sent a clear message on election day that moderation and results are important. Reps. Angie Craig (D-Minn.), Dan Kildee (D-Mich.), Henry Cuellar (D-Texas) and Abigail Spanberger(D-Va.), all moderates and agriculture champions, for example, were re-elected in districts that tend to favor more conservative candidates. Additionally, the new Congress will include 18 House Republicans who will represent districts won by President Biden — up from nine after the 2020 election. These numbers, juxtaposed with the general tenor of the election, in which more vocal members either lost seats or came close to losing their seats, could be a moderating force in Congress over the next two years. I hope we can use this as an opportunity to get things done for you. Out: Long Time Partners – As is typical with any new session of Congress, we will see real champions for agriculture and the interests of corn growers moving on this year. Some are retiring, some lost their re-election bids, but they will all be missed. Retiring Rep. Cheri Bustos (D-Ill.) has been a champion for both agriculture and biofuels and led the charge on the Next Generation Fuels Act. Rodney Davis (R-Ill.) and Cindy Axne (D-Iowa) were unsuccessful in their re-election bids but have worked tirelessly over their respective tenures on issues of importance to corn growers. These three, and many others, have helped the advancement of our policy priorities, and we wish them all the very best in their next chapter. The House Democratic Leadership – Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), Majority Leader Rep. Stenny Hoyer D-Md.) and Majority Whip Rep. James Clyburn (D-S.C.) indicated they will be leaving their leadership posts in the new Congress. Speaker Pelosi first began her leadership role for the Democratic Caucus in 2003 and she has proven to be a consequential leader. She has also been a strong supporter of the Renewable Fuel Standard. We look forward to working with the new Democratic leadership. We also look forward to working with the Republican leadership as they assume the helm in the House. A great corn grower leader – Goodbyes and farewells are never easy, particularly when one is talking about an amazing leader who has done so much to advocate on behalf of the agricultural community. But after 20 years at NCGA, CEO Jon Doggett will be leaving the organization as he seeks new adventures. Jon has hired, mentored and fostered the development of many Washington professionals as he has worked to shape major legislation on behalf of corn farmers across the country. Words cannot even begin to express how much we will miss him and his stellar leadership. That’s it for this year’s Ins and Outs. We look forward to embracing the changes and ups and downs that lay ahead as we head into a new year. In the meantime, we hope you and yours have a wonderful holiday season! Appleton is vice president of public policy at the National Corn Growers Association.
