01-28-12 Fort Collins Baby In Need of Life-Saving Transplant

Fort Collins, Colorado — With the cost of a transplant often exceeding $500,000, many transplant families are unable to shoulder the financial burden of such a procedure.  The Children’s Organ Transplant Association (COTA) is a national charity dedicated to organizing and guiding communities in raising funds for transplant-needy patients.  In Fort Collins, volunteers are raising funds for transplant patients like local baby, Addilyn Hawks.

Addilyn is the daughter of Aaron and Krystin Hawks.  Born on December 19, 2010, Addilyn was diagnosed with Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis-Type 2.  The doctors at the Children’s Hospital of Colorado in Aurora, have recommended a life-saving liver transplant.  An estimated $50,000 is being raised by Fort Collins volunteers.

Volunteers are needed to assist with fundraising activities that will help with the Hawks family’s transplant-related expenses.  Individuals and groups interested in more information can contact Community Coordinator Kim Kelley at 970.405.6075 or klkornery@comcast.net.  Media may contact the campaign Public Relations Coordinator Jamie Sedlak at 970.420.9619 or jmelynsedlak@gmail.com for more information about the family or the community campaign.

Donations may be mailed to the Children’s Organ Transplant Association, 2501 West COTA Drive, Bloomington, Indiana, 47403.  Checks or money orders should be made payable to COTA, with “In Honor of Addilyn H.” written on the memo line of the check.   Secure credit card donations are also accepted online at: www.COTAforAddilynH.com.

Addilyn’s family has asked for assistance from the Children’s Organ Transplant Association.  The organization’s priority is to assure that no child or young adult is denied a transplant or excluded from a transplant waiting list due to lack of funds.  One hundred percent of all funds raised are used for patients’ transplant-related expenses.

Weekends…”Inside the BARN”

CLICK HERE to visit the “Inside the BARN” webpage for this week’s show & archives too…

“Inside the BARN” for January 28th

01-26-12 Sonnenberg’s CLEAR Act Passes House Economic and Business Development Committee with Bipartisan Support

DENVER —The CLEAR Act, or Creating Level Expectations for Application Review Act, passed the House Economic and Business Development Committee today with a vote of 11-1-1.

Sponsored by state Rep. Jerry Sonnenberg, the CLEAR Act ensures that the rules of an agency in place when an application is filed govern that application for the duration of its review.

Currently, rules are subject to sudden changes, which force applicants to withdraw their original application and waste valuable time and resources just to refile.

“The state should be working to accommodate the needs of business owners, not the other way around,” said Patrick Boyle of the Colorado Competitive Council. “When businesses must go out of their way to accommodate a rule change, that’s not fair. Those losses add up.”

The CLEAR Act is one of a number of bills House Republicans have introduced that removes regulatory barriers to business and helps clear the way for job creation. The measure comes as a direct result of the input they received from job creators on their Building a Better Colorado tour last October.

“Sitting down with business owners and meeting them face to face, we hear the same thing all the time,” said Sonnenberg, R-Sterling. “Government needs to get out of the way. This bill helps accomplish that.”

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01-26-12 Colorado Corn honors legislator, Beef Battalion, Colorado Ag News Network & Others

State Rep. Jerry Sonnenberg three-peated as the Legislator of the Year as he and others were honored Wednesday at the 2012 Colorado Corn Annual Banquet in Loveland, for their hard work on behalf of agriculture.

Sonnenberg, the lone working farmer in the Colorado House, said working on behalf of corn growers was easy because his values match up well.

Newly appointed Public Policy Chair Rick Palkowitsh presented the award, saying, “From tax policy to transportation issues, property rights to water supply challenges, Representative Jerry Sonnenberg continues to be a strong voice for agriculture.”

Other awards presented Wednesday:

01-26-12 JAY LEE APPOINTED AS PRESIDENT OF NORTHEASTERN JUNIOR COLLEGE

DENVER -   Jay Lee, currently vice-president for Instruction at North Idaho College in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, has been appointed president of Northeastern Junior College (NJC) in Sterling, Colorado by Dr. Nancy McCallin, president of the Colorado Community College System (CCCS).

Lee will assume the presidency on March 12, 2012.  Scott Stump has been serving as the interim president while the search was conducted.  He will return to his responsibilities of assistant provost for career and technical education at CCCS on March 12, 2012.  Stump was appointed as interim president when Dr. Lance Bolton was appointed as president of Pikes Peak Community College in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

“I am very pleased that Lee has accepted the presidency of Northeastern Junior College,” McCallin said.  “Jay Lee’s background in community college leadership, the comments from the college and community, and my time with him make me confident that he will be a strong, effective leader for Northeastern Junior College.   We are all looking forward to working with him and welcome him to the system and college.”

“I also want to thank Scott Stump for his leadership during the search process,” said McCallin.  “Scott Stump’s familiarity with the system, the college, and NJC made him invaluable in his role as Interim President at NJC during the search.   We have missed him at the system and are glad to have him returning to his position here.”

“I’m honored to have been chosen to be the next president at Northeastern Junior College,” said Lee. “I greatly appreciate the faith placed in me by the Colorado Community College System, Dr. McCallin, the employees of NJC and the citizens of Sterling. I look forward to joining a great team of faculty, staff and administrators who share my devotion to student service and success.  My wife, Terri, and I are also anxious to join the Sterling community.”

2012 CCTA High Plains No Till Conference in Burlington, CO Jan 31st – Feb 1st – GET REGISTERED NOW!

CLICK HERE to see the brochure and complete agenda!

CLICK HERE if you are interested in being a sponsor or a vendor @ the 2012 CCTA High Plains No Till Conference

Two Colorado Agriculture Radio Networks Create Partnership…Jan 1st, 2012

Briggsdale, Colorado, December 26th, 2011- The BARN Network (Brian Allmer Radio Network) and the Colorado Agriculture News Network have announced today the joint partnership of these two Agriculture content based radio networks.

The six year old Colorado Agriculture News Network syndicated radio show, created and hosted by Lorrie Boyer will become a part of the BARN network, beginning January 1, 2012. “I think our networks align when it comes to the end goal, which is getting vital agriculture information out to public in the form of interviews and radio reports,” states Boyer. “We have a history of offering credible and educational information to those in rural areas and those who raise the food and fiber in Colorado. I am happy to partner with Brian Allmer in further expanding our efforts and resources.”

BARN Media owner and host, Brian Allmer has been a farm broadcaster for the past 6 years. He is a Colorado farmer and also is active in the Colorado 4H Foundation, Colorado FFA Foundation, Colorado Farm Show Marketing Committee Member, and  has been a  National Association of Farm Broadcasters member since 2007.

“I am equally excited about the merger of the Colorado Ag News Network with the BARN,” states Brian Allmer. “Lorrie has done a great job in building the Colorado Ag News Network to what has become today,  and I will do my best to maintain it and make it something listeners, sponsors & the entire ag industry can be proud of and will come to know as a ‘Friend to Agriculture’ as well as a media outlet.”

Allmer will be anchoring the ag news reports, which can be heard throughout Colorado. For a listing of the stations and supporters and to find a station in your area, go to www.barnmedia.net. In addition to daily national and state agriculture news, Allmer also produces daily market reports and a weekend half hour agriculture program. The reports are available on the barnmedia.net website as well.

Listeners are invited to send comments and story leads to barnmedia@yahoo.com. ###

Agriculture & Air Quality Symposiums Scheduled in Ft Morgan Feb 16th & in Lamar Feb 17th…RSVP by Feb 10th

CLICK HERE to view the flyer

Agriculture groups partner to host agriculture and air quality symposiums to inform producers about the impacts of nitrogen deposition on sensitive ecosystems.

 

Greeley, CO – Members of Colorado’s Agriculture and Air Quality Technical workgroup will be hosting two symposiums focusing on ways agriculture is helping to reduce nitrogen deposition impacts at Rocky Mountain National Park through more efficient use of nitrogen in farming and ranching operations.  The symposiums will be held on February 16 at the Steakout Restaurant, 19592 E 8^th Ave., Fort Morgan, CO, and February 17 at the Lamar Community Building in the Multi-Purpose Room, 610 S 6^th St., Lamar, CO.  The symposiums will run from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day with registration beginning at 8:30 a.m.

 

Although nitrogen is an important input in today’s agricultural operations, volatilization, transport and subsequent deposition has lead to increasing concerns for officials at Rocky Mountain National Park and other areas with sensitive ecosystems.  Scientists believe current levels of nitrogen being deposited in Rocky Mountain National Park are twice the acceptable rate.

 

“The purpose of the Agriculture and Air Quality Technical Workgroup is to bring agricultural producers, environmental interests and regulators together to discuss how a collaborative approach toward reducing nitrogen’s impact on Rocky Mountain National Park can be a win-win for everyone involved,” said Bill Hammerich, Chief Executive Officer of the Colorado Livestock Association.

 

Members of the agriculture and air quality technical workgroup hope to engage with agricultural producers to address nitrogen transport and deposition.  Through the symposiums, agricultural producers can expect to:

•         Learn how to help reduce nitrogen deposition impacts and preserve RMNP and other lands for future generations;

•         Learn how nitrogen is transported regionally and how agricultural operations remote from the Park are thought to be contributing to increased deposition levels;

•         See how Best Management Practices can increase efficiency and reduce nitrogen loss, keeping more on the farm for crops and lowering costs for producers; and

•         See how voluntary actions today can reduce the need for future ammonia regulations.

 

To RSVP for one of the symposiums, contact Landon Gates at 970.218.0284 or Landon@CapitolFocusLLC.com.  RSVP deadline is February 10, 2012.  Seating and lunch will only be guaranteed to those who RSVP.  Registration fee is $25.00.  Make Checks payable to Colorado Livestock Association (CLA) and mail to Colorado Livestock Association, Attention Ag/Air Symposium, 822 7^th St. Suite 210, Greeley, CO  80631.  To pay by credit card, call 970.378.0500. 

 

Speakers at the symposiums will address a variety of topics including:

01-03-12 *CO AgrAbility News* Workshops Empower Farmers and Ranchers to Work Despite Physical Challenges…Check out the Workshops in CO

Colorado AgrAbility hosts workshops to give hope and tools to disabled Agriculture producers 

Workshop Schedule

• Trinidad: Tuesday, January 31, 2012, Trinidad College Sullivan Student Center at 600 Prospect Ave. with Dean Oatman (719) 846-6881.
• Lamar: Wednesday, February 1, 2012, Lamar Community College, Trustee’s Building at 2401 South Main with Bruce Fickenscher (719) 438-5321.
• Pueblo: Thursday, February 2, 2012, Pueblo Zoo at 3455 Nuckolis Avenue with Marvin Reynolds (719) 583-6566.
• Holyoke: Tuesday, February 7, 2012, Extension Office Events Center at 22505 Hwy. 385 with Dennis Kaan (970) 345-2287.
• Ft. Morgan: Wednesday, February 8, 2012, Ft. Morgan Extension Office at 914 E. Railroad Ave. with Bruce Bosely (970) 768-6449.
• Aurora: Thursday, February 9, 2012, Arapahoe County Fairgrounds & Event Center – Room 1 at 25690 East Quincy Avenue with Dale Edwards (303) 730-1920.

[Denver, CO] January 3, 2012 – Getting out of bed can be difficult for a person with rheumatoid arthritis or muscular sclerosis.  For ranchers and farmers, these types of diagnoses can make running their agricultural operations nearly impossible. Colorado AgrAbility Project, a NIFA-funded program run by Goodwill Industries of Denver and Colorado State University Extension, will host a series of local workshops to provide information to farm and ranch families with disabilities and to professionals who work with them about programs and tools to help operate their farm or ranch despite physical challenges.

“Sometimes simple steps like retrofitting a tractor with a swiveling seat and extra rails and steps can be enough to get ranchers or farmers back to work,” said Colorado State University professor and Colorado AgrAbility Project Director, Dr. Bob Fetsch. “These workshops teach ranchers and farmers about changes they can make to help them work their businesses.”

The effects of long-term scoliosis, multiple joint replacements and numerous broken bones resulted in reduced lung volume capacity, limited mobility and work productivity for Jackie Weimer. The breathing difficulties and restricted ability to move about her horse ranch in Bennett, Colorado, caused Weimer trouble completing daily chores such as training, feeding and cleaning out the horse stalls. Her husband, Jim, was left both maintaining the ranch and overseeing the breeding operation for the professional race horses they raise.  Colorado AgrAbility and the Colorado Division of Vocational Rehabilitation helped Jackie get a utility vehicle that she uses to help her get around her ranch, as well as a manure-vacuum to help clean the horse stalls.

For more information about the Colorado AgrAbility Project or to pre-register, participants can call Dr. Bob Fetsch (970) 491-5648, e-mail him at Robert.fetsch@colostate.edu  or visit http://www.agrability.cahs.colostate.edu.

About Colorado AgrAbility Project

Colorado State University and Goodwill Industries of Denver work together on the Colorado AgrAbility Project to provide on-site evaluations, resource information, disability workshops, equipment modification and assistive technology. The US Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture provides funding for the Colorado AgrAbility Project.

About Goodwill Industries of Denver
Goodwill Industries of Denver seeks to reverse the cycle of poverty through career preparation and skills training for at-risk youth, struggling families and individuals with disabilities. Through its thrift retail operations and community programs, Goodwill is ensuring that every individual in our community has the opportunity to live to their fullest potential and overcome barriers to success and self-sufficiency. Visit www.goodwilldenver.org to learn more.

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[1] AAPRJWeimer9.2411

01-09-12 Colorado Young Farmers to hold state institute February 3-4 in Denver, CO

CLICK HERE fo rmore info about the CYFEA!

Duren to present Calls of the Wild during event

The Forty-Third Colorado Young Farmers Educational Association Institute will be held February 3-4, 2012 at the Red Lion Hotel Denver Central in Denver, Colorado.

Over 150 members, spouses, advisors, and guests are expected to attend.  The members of the Fort Morgan and Southeast Weld County chapters are assisting with hosting some of the events.

The state officers coordinating the activities include: President-Dan Ross, Yuma, Yuma Chapter; Northeastern Vice President-Allan Carlson, Longmont, St. Vrain Chapter; Southeastern Vice President-David Begler, Fort Lupton, Front Range Chapter; Secretary-Ben Christensen, Blanca, San Luis Valley Chapter; Treasurer-Bryson Miller, Brush, Fort Morgan Chapter; Reporter-Andi Begler, Fort Lupton, Front Range Chapter, and Immediate Past President-Eric Kipp, Yuma, Yuma Chapter.  The advisor is Mike Womochil from Denver, Assistant Advisor, Kenton Ochsner of Denver, and Jack Annan from Sterling serves as Executive Secretary.

01-09-12 Governor’s Forum on Colorado Agriculture Explores Food Safety Issues Feb 23rd in Denver

FORT COLLINS - State and national leaders in the field of agriculture, including Gov. John Hickenlooper (invited), Commissioner of Agriculture John Salazar and Colorado State University College of Agricultural Sciences Dean Craig Beyrouty, will speak at the annual Governor’s Forum on Colorado Agriculture on Thursday, Feb. 23, at the Renaissance Denver Hotel, 3801 Quebec St.

The forum, themed “Exploring Ag Security and Food Safety,” will cover a variety of topics related to the food system:
• Curt Mann of the Homeland Security Studies and Analysis Institute will discuss agricultural security on the global level.
• Dr. Larry Goodridge, food microbiologist and associate professor in CSU’s College of Agricultural Sciences, will narrow the discussion to food safety within Colorado.
• Breakout sessions will include updates from the Food Systems Advisory Council and Farm to School Task Force, Consumer Communications: Producer to Consumer Messaging, choosing a third party auditor, and food safety at home.

A pre-forum reception will be held from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 22, at the Governor’s Residence at Boettcher Mansion, 400 E 8th Avenue, Denver.

Deadline for early registration is Jan. 23. The cost is $100 or $45 for students. After Jan. 23, registration is $120 or $50 for students. To register, visit www.colorado.gov/ag/forum or call (303) 239-4100.

The forum is held in conjunction with the Colorado FFA Foundation’s Agriculture Hall of Fame banquet. For information on the banquet, visithttp://www.coloradoffafoundation.org/Colorado_Agriculture_Hall_of_Fame.html.

The Governor’s Forum on Colorado Agriculture is hosted by Gov. Hickenlooper, the Colorado Department of Agriculture and Colorado State University with support of the Colorado Agricultural Leadership Associates and more than 50 organizations, businesses and agencies interested in the future of Colorado agriculture.

01-10-12 High Plains OCIA NE #2 Chapter Annual Meeting Feb 4th in Sidney, NE…

High Plains OCIA NE #2 Chapter Annual Meeting will be February 4, 2012 at the Buffalo Point Restaurant in Sidney, Nebraska (the restaurant is located next door to the east of Cabela’s store).

Registration will be 8:30 to 9:00 and the meeting will start at 9:00 AM. Lunch is provided for members and there will be a small charge for guests.

Afternoon session with speakers and farmer panel discussion as well as booth displays.

2012 applications will be handed out that day. 

Please contact Rebecca at 970-895-2296 or email ociane2@gmail.com  if you are planning on attending the meeting.

01-11-12 CSU Extension Outreach Center for Agricultural Energy…WORKSHOP SCHEDULE

Center for Agricultural Energy

Outreach

The CAE has begun an annual workshop series focused on agricultural energy audits, efficiency, and renewable energy. Below is our schedule and registration information for winter 2011-2012:

Date	Location	Agenda	Registration Email or Website	Registration Phone
Jan. 31	3712 Hwy 1 (Cleveland Ave.) – Wellington	Agenda	sharal.foss@colostate.edu	(970) 491-6281
Feb. 2	Arkansas Valley Farm/Ranch/Water Symposium – Rocky Ford	www.farmranchwater.org/ frwagenda.html	www.farmranchwater.org/ frwregistration%20new.html	(719) 254-7608
Feb. 6	Lewis-Arriola Community Center – Cortez	Agenda	abdel.berrada@colostate.edu	(970) 562-4255
Feb. 9	30th Annual Southern Rocky Mountain Ag Conference and Expo – Monte Vista	www.monte-vista.org	www.monte-vista.org/	(719) 852-7381
Mar. 1	Delta-Montrose Electric Association – Montrose	TBD	Coming soon	Coming soon

01-17-12 Eighth Annual Arkansas Valley Farm/Ranch/Water Symposium and Trade Show Coming February 2, 2012

Rocky Ford, Colo.—Mark your calendar for the eighth annual Arkansas Valley Farm/Ranch/Water Symposium and Trade Show, scheduled for Thursday, February 2, 2012, in Rocky Ford, Colo.

             This year’s symposium includes a variety of topics: Agriculture energy audits, weather predictions, livestock and hay outlooks, media relations for farmer/ranchers, safe food processing practices and information about state water projects. The lunch break and other breaks through the day will allow plenty of time to visit the 16 vendors from throughout Eastern Colorado. Visit the vendors and see the latest in technology on irrigation, water issues, energy efficiency products, and what area businesses have to offer. Lunch will be catered by Frontier Diner.

As a special treat, Brian Bledsoe, Chief Meteorologist with KKTV with enlighten the audience on the weather and climate. He will also reveal his predictions of how the easing La Niña will affect the agricultural community. Dr. Stephen Koontz, Economist/Commodity Trading Associate Professor, Colorado State University, will present a marketing outlook for corn, hay and cattle.

Cary Weiner the Clean Energy Specialist for Colorado State University Extension and Co-Director of CSU’s new Center for Agricultural Energy will be disussing Agricultural Energy Audits and what energy cost-saving opportunities exist for producers. Mary Miller of Triple M Bar Ranch will dicuss strageties for farmers and ranchers to consider when they are working with the media.

Tracy Vanderpool oversees the Fruit & Vegetable Inspection Program of the Colorado Department of Agriculture and will give an overview of the fundamentals of Good Agricultural Practices /Good Handling Practices including food safety plans and how a third party audits are conducted.

The afternoon will include topics on water in Colorado. Heath Kuntz of Adaptive Resources, Inc. will give an update on the Super Ditch’s Catlin pilot leasing project and Rule 10. Dr. Perry Cabot of the Colorado Water Institute and Colorado State University will explain Water 2012, whose goal is to engage Coloradans in a statewide celebration of water: past, present, and future. Steve Witte and Bill Tyner both of the Colorado Division of Water Resources will discuss past and present issues facing lower Arkansas Valley water users.

Ken Newens, D.V.M. with Colorado Department of Agriculture, will give us an update on traceability rules, changes in the scrapie program, and also a brief update on trichomoniasis, brucellosis, and tuberculosis in Colorado.

The Symposium will be held at the Gobin Community Building in Rocky Ford, Colo., with registration beginning at 8:00 a.m.  The program will begin at 8:30 a.m. Early registration is $20 per person or $30 per couple prior to January 27 ($25 and $35, respectfully, after January 29).  Student registration is $5.  For more information, contact the CSU Extension office in Rocky Ford at 719-254-7608, visit the website: www.farmranchwater.org, or facebook page http://www.facebook.com/farmranchwater.

01-18-12 Colorado Agriculture Big & Small Conference Feb 15-16 in Brighton, CO

February 15 and 16, 2012
Brighton, CO

Featuring break-out sessions for small acreage landowners, farmers, ag professionals, and scientists. Many topics to choose from including Backyard Poultry Production, Poisonous Plants, Livestock Diseases, Fruit and Nut trees for the Front Range, Establishment and Management of Grasses in Colorado, Herb Production, and much much more! Choose to come one or both days, all day, or just for evening sessions. To see the full agenda and to register go to
www.coloradoagriculturebigandsmall.com

We are still accepting sponsors and vendors for this event.  Please contact at Jennifer Cook at 303-659-7004 ext.3 orjennifer.cook@colostate.edu<mailto:jennifer.cook@colostate.edu> for more info.  This is an opportunity to showcase your goods and services to over 100 attendees per day.

For more small acreage related events, please visit the Small Acreage Management events page at
www.ext.colostate.edu/sams/events.html

01-20-12 *CSU Extension – SECO* Drought Recovery and Re-stocking

As we all know, last summer was an ugly time weather-wise for the Southern Plains area, especially for the native ranges.  Grasses just could not get enough moisture to grow and as a result many producers either culled herds very deep or sold out completely.

Snow cover this winter has brought back some optimism for the next growing season, but we have a long way to go!  The obvious and visual results of the drought are the decrease number of livestock in the region.  The less obvious, and perhaps less visual, result is the effect of the drought on native range plants, especially the perennial plants.

Both above ground and below ground of plants is required annually for perennial plants (i.e. – grasses, shrubs, etc.) to survive from one year to the next.  Roots are used to feed the top growth moisture and minerals from the soil and the top growth is used to manufacture plant food for the roots.  If there is no moisture in the soil, the roots essentially are on a starvation diet.  Their stored energy is used to feed the above ground growth.  If this above ground growth is eaten off by an animal or the amount of nutrients is not enough to promote growth, it cannot supply replacement nutrients to the roots and the roots shrink in size and transport less food to the above ground portion of the plant.  The whole plant is on a less than maintenance diet plan.  The more volume the plant loses, the less strength it has to feed itself, and it may eventually die unless something changes.

Livestock producers should remember the adage: “It takes longer to recover from a drought than it does for the drought to occur.”  Yes, it is expensive to replace livestock, especially at the current price levels, but for the long-term health of the whole operation, that may be a good thing.  We must ask ourselves: ‘Without healthy grass, do we have a healthy operation?”

One other change producers may see is in plant species that are visible in their pastures.  With the possible decrease in perennial grass species there could be an increase in forbs.  Many consider these to be weeds, but they may or may not be bad.  Many of these are also native plants and not invasive.  They are simply filling a void in the ecosystem and may be facilitating the healing process, if allowed to!

For more information on drought and drought recover, visit the Southeast Area Extension webpage at: http://www.coopext.colostate.edu/SEA/ and click on the Ag & Natural Resources link.  On that page there are links to the CSU Beef Team and Range Management Web Link.  Both of these sites contain information to assist in the drought recovery process.  Also, if you have more questions or need further assistance, contact one of the seven Southeast Area Extension Offices listed on the Southeast Area webpage

(http://www.coopext.colostate.edu/SEA/ ).  CSU Extension offers up-to-date, unbiased, research-based information to families in Southeast Colorado.  CSU Extension programs are available to all without discrimination.

01-23-12 *CSU Extension* Registration is now open for 2012 Colo Ag Big and Small Conf – Feb 15-16, in Brighton, Colorado

On behalf of the 2012 Colorado Agriculture Big and Small Conference planning team, I’m pleased to announce that online registration is open.

Go to www.coloradoagriculturebigandsmall.com for conference schedule, brochure and registration.

The mission of the Colorado Agriculture Big and Small conference is to provide ag producers, market gardeners, (back yard gardeners), land managers, ag professionals, input suppliers and other stakeholders with an opportunity for education, networking and community development to meet their goals of sustainability (environmental, economic and social).

CLICK HERE to register

–

Adrian B. Card

Extension Agent, Agriculture and Natural Resources

Colorado State University Extension

9595 Nelson Rd. Box B

Longmont, CO  80501

            303-678-6383       (o)

303-678-6365 (f)

www.extension.colostate.edu/boulder/ag.shtml

01-23-12 *CDPHE News* Pollution Prevention Grants Program

Hub-and-Spoke Recycling Model

What is Hub-and-Spoke?

In its simplest form, the Hub-and-Spoke recycling model consists of a centralized processing center for recyclables, or “hub”, where material is sorted, baled, and/or sold to market. The “spokes” consist of surrounding communities that feed the recyclables they collect to the main hub. Typically the hub and spoke communities have a formal agreement that ensures the recyclables collected in the region flow from the spokes to the hub for processing.

What are the benefits of Hub-and-Spoke?

01-23-12 *History-CO News* Attention all Colorado Centennial Farms and Ranches…CO Legislature Recognition Feb 2nd…

CLICK HERE to visit the BarnMedia-History Colorado Centennial Farms Webpage...

Attention all Colorado Centennial Farms and Ranches it is with great pleasure that I inform you that on Thursday February 2, 2012 at 9 A.M. a resolution will be read in both the House and Senate Chambers in recognition of all Colorado Centennial Farms and Ranch recipients. Senator Schwartz is the Senate sponsor and Representative Sonnenberg is the House sponsor.  Senator Schwartz and Representative Sonnenberg along with the History Colorado staff and the Colorado Preserve America Youth Summit participants cordially invite you to attend the reading of the resolution in both the House and the Senate on February 2, 2012.

 If you plan to attend the event, please RSVP by January 30, 2012.

Please call 303/800-7168. For more information on the Colorado Centennial Farms program please visit www.ColoradoCentennialFarms.org.

01-23-12 Two Colorado Simmental Cattle Operations Recognized during 2012 NWSS

DENVER – Colorado Simmental Association recognized two cattle operations during the 2012 National Western Stock Show events.

Willie Altenburg of Fort Collins was presented a CSA Honorary Lifetime Membership, and Erroll and the late Gayle Cook of Walsh were presented the CSA Pioneer Award.

Curt Russell, CSA vice president and former Am. Simmental trustee from Sugar City, made the surprise presentations to recognize the positive, long-term impact they each have had on the beef industry. CSA’s current board members joined Russell in the ring, as Pres. James Dilka of Briggsdale presented the granite plaques prior to the Wild, Wild West Sale on Jan. 17 at Brighton.

In CSA’s 41-year history, the presentation to Willie Altenburg was only the sixth lifetime membership.

Altenburg has raised Simmental cattle for more than 35 years, and during that time he has been a tireless supporter and promoter of the Simmental breed as well as CSA.

He has also been active throughout his years in the beef industry as an active member of Colorado Cattlemen’s Association, Colorado Livestock Association, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and Beef Improvement Federation.

01-23-12 Tax Help Colorado opens at NJC on January 31st

CLICK HERE to view still photos taken by Barbara Baker of NJC during the entire event.

NJC business students certified by IRS to complete tax returns

If you have a household income that is less than $49,000, you qualify for the Tax Help Colorado program which provides free tax preparation services. The service is provided in Sterling through a partnership between Northeastern Junior College, the Piton Foundation and new corporate partner, Wells Fargo. This year, the NJC site is being overseen by Maxine Dennington with assistance from volunteer JoAnn Gilliland. NJC faculty involved with the program include business department chair Brenda Rhodes and business professor Deb Walker. Diane DiGiacomo, of the Piton Foundation, is the statewide coordinator of the program.

The Piton Foundation has partnered with colleges all over Colorado. Specifically, students in Northeastern’s  business studies department have been trained through specific accounting classes and then certified by the Internal Revenue Service to do tax preparation for others.

In Sterling, students will be offering free tax preparation services by appointment only on Tuesday evenings from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., beginning on January 31 thru April 3rd.  Those wishing to access this service on a Tuesday evening must make an appointment by calling 521-6637 between 12 noon and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. You will be given a specific time to show up on campus to have your taxes done. The location of the service is in Phillips Whyman Hall, Room 12.

01-24-12 Rodeo club seeks new members, plans Southeast Colorado Rodeo

Members of Southeast All Star Rodeo Club who attended a recent planning meeting. Back from left; Dylan Wahlert, La Junta; Reece Roberson, La Junta; Talon Shipman, Lamar; Chris Bushaw, La Junta; Kelton McMillen; Kim; Bryan Denton, Rocky Ford; Blake Denton, Rocky Ford. Front from left Tamara Tunick, Fowler; Alexa Major, Fowler; Jenna Waggoner, Fowler ; Hope Holder, Rocky Ford.

High School and junior high students interested in the sport of rodeo now have the opportunity to join the Southeast All Star Rodeo Club.  There are currently 24 active members from all over Southeast Colorado. Team members cooperate to organize a regional rodeo and invite other members of the Colorado High School Rodeo Association to attend. Proceeds from this rodeo and other events are used to help members with state and national travel expenses.

The spring rodeo season begins with the first rodeo on March 31 – April 1 in Cortez, Colo., and ends with the Colorado State High School finals held in Lamar, June 6-10. Members from across the state will compete to earn a spot on the National High School Rodeo team and to compete at the world’s largest youth rodeo held in Rock Springs, Wyoming.  Students are also competing for rodeo scholarships.

The All-Star’s rodeo is planned in Lamar at the Prowers County Fairgrounds, May 18-20^th. Over 300 contestants from around the state are expected to compete in the girl’s events of barrel racing, break-away roping, pole bending, goat tying and team roping. The boys will compete in tie-down roping, steer wrestling, bull riding, bareback and saddle bronc riding and team roping.  Part of the rodeo is for the junior high division consisting of youth from 6^th -8^th grades who compete in similar events.

An added event for the weekend is the traditional Cowboy Prom. This formal dance has been held because so many rodeo athletes miss their own high school prom. The dance is planned for Sat., May 19^th in Lamar.

The group is also planning a “Cowboy Bash” on Saturday, March 10 in La Junta, Colo. Live music, food and country western dancing will be part of the evening.  Members plan to showcase their activites and wide areas of involvement during the event.

The 2011-2012 club’s youth officers are: Alexa Major, Fowler – youth president; Kelton McMillen, Kim  – youth vice-president; Bryan Denton, Rocky Ford – youth secretary.

01-24-12 NJC Receives Beautification Grant from the Colorado Garden Show

Colorado Garden Show, Inc. selects college for major award

Staff Report - Sterling, CO—The Northeastern Junior College Foundation is pleased to announce that NJC is the recipient of the inaugural Andrew Pierce Memorial Grant.  The Colorado Garden Show awarded NJC a major grant of $58,000.  Grant funds were directed to the NJC Beautification Project, a joint venture between NJC and the NJC Foundation initiated in 2011.  The project will create a more attractive, unified and welcoming campus environment through implementation of a campus-wide landscape plan.  Landscape design will center on a wide variety of low-maintenance, drought-tolerant trees, plants and flowers to provide shade, seasonal color and visual appeal.

The NJC Beautification Project signage and landscaping planned for the front of the Hays Student Center  (left) contrasts sharply with that currently in place (right).

01-25-12 Tenth Annual DARCA Convention Slated for Feb 23-24 in CO Springs, CO…GET REGISTERED TODAY!

Are Your Water Rights in Jeopardy?

The Tenth Annual Convention of the Ditch & Reservoir Company Alliance (DARCA) - will be held February 23-24, 2012, at the Double Tree Hotel in Colorado Springs, CO..

During the two-day conference, 33 speakers will discuss their views on timely subjects facing ditch and reservoir companies.

The presentations will include topics on the recent United/FRICO change case, administrative issues, and keeping the next generation on the farm.

Colorado Supreme Court Justice Gregory J. Hobbs will address the ditch and reservoir group on “Prior Appropriation: Does it Still Meet Changing Needs?”

DARCA will be having three concurrent workshops on the morning of Friday, the 24th. The workshops are: What Directors and Officers Need to Know; Water Quality and Stormwater

Issues; and Managing the Ditch Company.

DARCA will present Is Your Great-Grandpa’s Dam Ready for the 21st Century, the pre-convention workshop, on Wednesday, February 22, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

For information regarding the convention as well as sponsorship or exhibitor opportunities please visit www.darca.org or contact DARCA at (970) 412-1960 or john.mckenzie@darca.org.

Submitted by: John McKenzie, Executive Director

01-25-12 National High School Rodeo Association Joins the Alltech Ag Network on iHigh

[Lexington, Ky.] – Imagine sitting in a Parisian cafe with a warm drink in hand, not people-watching but cheering on a cowboy as he takes on a chute fighter. This unexpected scene is a possibility now that U.S., Canadian and Australian youth have a new online network that will enable them to share the heart-pounding thrill of the rodeo globally. In joining the the Alltech Ag Network on iHigh.com^®, the National High School Rodeo Association (NHSRA) has a feature-rich platform that will enable them to post news articles, share photos and video clips, and even live-stream broadcast their events online and to mobile devices.

 “The Alltech Ag Network is eager to begin working with the National High School Rodeo Association in sharing its story with a global audience. It’s important for us to communicate the personality, passion and fun that exists within the agriculture community,” said Billy Frey, general manager of the Alltech Ag Network.

The NHSRA will have a dedicated Web site as well as its own channel – delivering up “all rodeo, all of the time.” iHigh and the NHSRA partnered together last summer to provide the first-ever complete live video webcasts of the National Junior High Finals Rodeo and National High School Finals Rodeo, drawing more than two million views during the events.  This new partnership will expand the association’s reach, allowing states and provinces the ability to work with iHigh to webcast rodeos, post photos and articles and market their associations through the NHSRA Channel.

01-25-12 2012 National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference…Rendezvous in the Rockies…June 19-22…REGISTER TODAY!

CLICK HERE to view the entire program

01-25-12 Fourth Annual Marshall Frasier Beef Producers Symposium…Feb 22nd in Hugo, CO

Colorado Cattlemen’s Association (CCA) is the state’s only nonprofit  trade organization exclusively representing Colorado’s cattle  producers.  Founded in 1867, CCA is the nation’s oldest state  cattlemen’s association. Visit us on the web at www.coloradocattle.org.

01-26-12 LMA ‘very pleased’ to announce Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc., as Platinum Level sponsor for June’s World Livestock Auctioneer Championship

     Livestock Marketing Association has announced that Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. (BIVI) is the Platinum Level sponsor for LMA’s 2012 World Livestock Auctioneer Championship (WLAC).

     LMA President David Macedo said the Platinum Level “is the highest level of sponsorship for the WLAC, now in its 49^th year, and widely considered the World Series and Super Bowl of the livestock auctioneering profession.

“We are very pleased to be working with a worldwide leader in cattle vaccine products, a company that shares our members’ concerns about livestock health.”

LMA is North America’s largest membership organization dedicated to supporting, representing and communicating with and for the entire livestock marketing sector. LMA represents some 800 livestock auction markets, livestock dealer/brokers and related businesses.

BIVI Brand Manager Monica Porter said, “We realized that the livestock auction market owner has a key role in the value that producers capture for the cattle they sell and has a significant influence on the health protocols that producers follow.

2012 Colorado Water Congress Convention – WATCH the Archived Webcasts from January 27th, 2012

CLICK HERE to watch the LIVE Webcasts

WATCH THE ARCHIVED WEBCAST of Anne Castle - “Balancing Priorities in an Uncertain Political Climate” - Anne Castle, Assistant Secretary for Water and Science - The Department of Interior is working hard to fulfill their responsibilities to provide reliable supplies of water and power, to conserve species under the Endangered Species Act, and to protect American Indian tribal interests. No easy task when faced with one of the most challenging times in Washington in memory. What will Interior’s priorities be in 2012? How are their connections and partnerships with the water community helping make progress possible?

General Session V  - Colorado Water 2012 Authors

CLICK HERE to watch the Archived Webcast of Session V

Introduction by Greg Hobbs, Justice, Colorado Supreme Court - A book club featuring Colorado authors has been established as a part of Water 2012. Two of their featured books were written by the authors Craig Childs and Jon Waterman.

House of Rain - Craig Childs - The rhythm of drought and abundance are the clock of the Southwest, the calendar we live by across centuries and millennia. Craig will give a revealing discussion of ancient migrations, springs, and rain. The various tribes that made up the Anasazi people converged on Chaco Canyon (New Mexico) during the 11th century to create a civilization hailed as “the Las Vegas of its day,” a flourishing cultural center that attracted pilgrims from far and wide, and a vital crossroads of the prehistoric world. By the 13th century, however, Chaco’s vibrant community had disappeared without a trace.

The Colorado River Flowing Through Conflict - Jon Waterman - Supplying vital water to more than 30 million Americans living in the arid West, the Colorado River is one of the most diverted and heavily litigated rivers in the world. Jon will present his full-color, photo essay, The Colorado River: Flowing Through Conflict. He follows the river’s epic 1,450-mile journey from its headwaters n the Colorado Rockies to its delta touching the Sea of Cortez. Through striking photography, Jon will illuminate the historical, geographical, and environmental significance of this life-giving river.

General Session VI - Can We Plan a Better Future?

CLICK HERE to watch the ARCHIVED WEBCAST of General Session VI

The Future of Water - Steve Maxwell -There are broad trends that will have a significant impact upon future water challenges: population, economic growth, energy, climate change, and general demographic trends. Steve will examine what might be in store for us and how water utilities, industries, and countries may change the future of water. He will discuss how water usage and storage may change in our homes, in agriculture, and industry.So Exactly What Is a State Water Plan?

A Brief Overview of State Water Plans -Governor Hickenlooper has challenged the water community to develop a Colorado State Water Plan by the year 2016. How might Colorado develop such a plan? Serving as potential examples, Texas has just completed its 2012 State Water Plan and California is in the process of developing its plan. We will very briefly discuss the content of these plans.

And Why Do We Need One? - Panel Discussion - Speakers TBA - The process for developing a Colorado State Water Plan has not yet been finalized. What concerns do we have? What are the potential benefits to Colorado’s water community.

Aspinall Luncheon

CLICK HERE to watch the entire Aspinall Luncheon Presentation

Recognition of Honorary Life Members and CWC President

Fred Anderson Tribute

W.D. Farr, Cowboy in the Boardroom - Dan Tyler - “Always a better way” was WD Farr’s motto. As a Colorado rancher, banker, cattle feeder, and expert in irrigation, Farr (1910–2007) had a unique talent for building consensus and instigating change in an industry known for its conservatism. With his persistent optimism and gregarious personality, Farr’s influence extended from next-door neighbors and business colleagues to U.S. presidents and foreign dignitaries. WD was a third-generation descendant of western farming pioneers, who specialized in sheep feeding. While learning all he could from his father and grandfather, WD developed a new vision: to make cattle profitable.

2012 Aspinall Water Leader of the Year Award Presentation

For more information about the Colorado Water Congress – CLICK HERE

The Denver Cash Grain Bids for January 27th

GL_GR110
Greeley, CO    Fri Jan 27, 2012    USDA-CO Dept of Ag Market News

Daily Grain Bids for Denver and Surrounding Areas

Spot bids to producers for grain delivered to terminal and country
elevators.  Bids dollar/bu. except for Barley which is dollar/cwt.
Bids are as of 3:00 PM MST.
Bids        Change (cents)
US 1 Hard Red Winter Wheat      6.45-6.90    9 lower
Up to 12 percent protein

US 2 Yellow Corn                6.03-6.50    5 to 6 higher

US 2 Barley                          10.00    steady

Source: USDA-CO Dept of Ag Market News Service, Greeley, CO

READ the NAFB’s National Ag News as heard inside the BARN for January 27th

CLICK HERE to listen to TODAY's BARN Morning Ag News with Brian Allmer...

Sponsored by the American Farm Bureau Federation

“House Passes Dodd-Frank Amendments”

The House Ag Committee has passes a half dozen bills that would amend Title VII of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. House Ag Committee Chairman Frank Lucas says some of the current regulations are – completely contrary to the intent of the original Dodd-Frank legislation. He says – some of these regulations could make using derivatives so expensive that businesses will be forced to stop using them to hedge against risk.

Ranking Member Collin Peterson is calling for – patience with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. He said – the CFTC is going to get this right. To date, most of the final rules coming out of the Commission have bipartisan support and are addressing the concerns that stakeholders have expressed to both us and the Commission.

Peterson believes that even if we do find that any of these bills are necessary, they have no future. The majority of Senate Republicans and their leadership have dedicated themselves to the repeal of Dodd-Frank.

*****************READ MORE NAFB AG NEWS BELOW*******************************

“Grassley Wants Discussion with FCC Official”

Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley wants members of his staff to meet with Paul de Sa, a top Federal Communications Commission staff member who is describes as the “father” of the LightSquared project.  DeSa leaves his position as the FCC’s legislative affairs director next month.  Grassley’s first request for a meeting was met with a “not available” statement. An FCC official says Grassley is on a “witch hunt”. Grassley calls it “due diligence”.

01-26-12 *The White House* REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT ON AMERICAN ENERGY…Buckley AFB in Colorado

Buckley Air Force Base - Aurora, Colorado

3:34 P.M. MST

THE PRESIDENT:  Hello, everybody!  (Applause.)  Hello, Team Buckley!  (Applause.)  It is great to be here.  Everybody please have a seat, have a seat.

Al, thank you for that introduction and for your years of service.  I brought a few folks with me here today.  The Secretary of the Air Force, Michael Donley.  (Applause.)  The Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus is here.  (Applause.)  Our Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy Planning Sharon Burke is in the house.  (Applause.)  They are all doing great work with Secretary Panetta to keep our military the strongest in the world and to make our military more energy efficient.

I want to thank our host, Colonel Dant, for welcoming us here today.  (Applause.)  Lieutenant Governor Joe Garcia is here as well.  Give him a round of applause.  (Applause.)  And the mayor of the great city of Denver, Michael Hancock is here as well.  (Applause.)  You’ll notice they have the same hairdo.  (Laughter.)

And of course we’ve got some outstanding men and women in uniform from Buckley Air Force Base.  (Applause.)  And that includes the 460th Space Wing.  (Applause.)  To all of you, on behalf of a grateful nation, I want to thank you for your extraordinary service.

During a decade of war, these folks, so many of you, exhibited the very best of America:  courage, selflessness, teamwork.  As I said this past Tuesday, you’ve exceeded all expectations, because you focus on your mission.  You work together.  You get the job done.

2012 Colorado Farm Show Best Booth Award Winners…Check out the Video Interviews w/CO State FFA Officers

SPECIAL THANKS to the CO FFA State Officers who contributed their time to obtain these interviews

and to the Eaton FFA Chapter members who assisted as videographers

Best Theme

01-26-12 New Forest Planning Rule seeks to restore the nation’s forests through science and collaboration

Secretary Vilsack announces release of Final Environmental Impact Statement by US Forest Service

WASHINGTON, Jan. 26, 2012 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today signaled the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s intent to issue a new planning rule for America’s 193-million acre National Forest System that seeks to deliver stronger protections for forests, water, and wildlife while supporting the economic vitality of our rural communities, by releasing online a Final Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS) for the National Forest System Land Management Planning Rule. Today’s action honors the commitment made by Secretary Vilsack in his 2009 speech on forest management, and by the President in the America’s Great Outdoors Report.

USDA and the Forest Service carefully considered nearly 300,000 comments received on the proposed rule and draft environmental impact statement issued last February, to develop the agency’s preferred course of action for finalizing the planning rule. This is included in the PEIS released today as USDA’s preferred alternative. A notice of availability for the PEIS will be published in the Federal Register on February 3, 2012, and the Secretary will issue a record of decision selecting a final planning rule no less than 30 days afterwards.

“The most collaborative rulemaking effort in agency history has resulted in a strong framework to restore and manage our forests and watersheds and help deliver countless benefits to the American people,” said Secretary Vilsack. “Our preferred alternative will safeguard our natural resources and provide a roadmap for getting work done on the ground that will restore our forests while providing job opportunities for local communities.”

The preferred alternative emphasizes collaboration and strengthens the role of public involvement and dialogue throughout the planning process. It also would require the use of the best available scientific information to inform decisions.

Highlights of the preferred alternative include:

01-26-12 CO Governor recommends Pinnacol Assurance restructuring proposal move forward

DENVER ­— Thursday, Jan. 26, 2012 — A draft report to the Stakeholders’ Task Force about the potential restructuring of Pinnacol Assurance includes a recommendation from Gov. John Hickenlooper to move the proposal forward by seeking policyholder approval and beginning legislative discussions.

The restructuring proposal, which was given by Pinnacol to the governor on Nov. 3, would establish a more competitive “level playing field” for workers’ compensation insurance in Colorado and provide substantial resources for statewide economic development, education and injured worker programs.

“On balance, and after extensive review by the technical team and input from the Task Force, the Governor believes that the benefits of the proposed restructuring more than outweigh the risks for both policyholders and the public,” the draft report to the Task Force says. “In addition, because the restructuring is subject to approval by the legislature and Pinnacol’s policyholders, the Governor is comfortable recommending that the restructuring proceed into the legislative process.”

The Task Force was convened by the governor to offer advice on Pinnacol’s restructuring proposal. The full Task Force met three times to discuss the risks and benefits to the various stakeholders of Pinnacol’s proposed restructuring, and individual Task Force met with legal and financial advisors retained to evaluate the proposal.

The Task Force will meet again on Tuesday morning.

“The Task Force has played a very important role in helping the Governor’s Office identify and shape consideration of a wide array of issues related to Pinnacol’s proposal,” the draft report says. “While we expect that individual Task Force members will have their own valuable perspective on the Governor’s recommendations, the Governor deeply appreciates the ‘sounding board’ role of the Task Force to date.”

The governor’s recommendation includes changes from the proposal he received from Pinnacol in November. The key differences are:

01-26-12 *CSU Ext – Morgan County* LIVING WELL IN MORGAN COUNTY

 Nearly 20,000 older adults die each year because of injuries from accidental falls.  In fact, falling is the leading cause of death for older adults.

     If you believe falling is part of normal aging, that is wrong. Falls can be prevented by being proactive about making changes in environment and mental attitude.

     One-third of adults 65 and older fall each year, but less than half mention it to family or healthcare providers.  When asked why they don’t discuss their falls with others, the usual response is fearing they won’t be able to continue living independently.

     The fear of falling is a major concern of older adults. When surveyed, 47% reported it as a greater fear than being robbed (17%), having financial problems (12%), or losing a loved one (4%).  Of those who have fallen, 26% report they limit or avoid activities afterwards.

01-26-12 Rising Farm Income Boosts Farmland Values and Bank Profits According to Federal Reserve Agricultural Finance Databook‏

Strong farm income propelled farmland values to record highs and strengthened loan portfolios at agricultural banks at the end of 2011, according to the Federal Reserve System’s Agricultural Finance Databook. 

Crop prices remained historically high but volatile through the fall harvest, underpinning robust farm income expectations in areas with favorable yields. Cropland values across the Corn Belt and northern Plains soared to all-time highs with many states posting annual value gains between 20 and 40 percent. Brisk bidding at farmland auctions kept prices high and enticed landowners to place their land holdings up for sale. 

Agricultural bank profits improved as borrowers repaid farm debts. In the third quarter, the return on assets at agricultural banks rose further and remained stronger than their banking peers. The share of delinquent farm real estate loans fell, and delinquent non-real estate loan volumes hit their lowest level since 2009. 

Rising farm incomes boosted liquidity in the farm sector and slowed non-real estate lending in 2011. Agricultural bankers reported soft operating loan demand throughout the year. With more deposits and limited gains in non-real estate loan volumes, the average loan-to-deposit ratio at agricultural banks plunged to its lowest level in a decade during the third quarter with weaker activity in the fourth quarter.

Commercial banks struggled to maintain market share in an extremely competitive lending environment. Intense competition for loans led to more favorable loan terms, reduced interest rates and lengthening of some loan maturities by agricultural lenders. 

The Agricultural Finance Databook is a quarterly compilation of national and regional agricultural finance data. The complete release is available at www.kansascityfed.org/research/indicatorsdata/agfinance. For additional research on the agricultural economy from the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, visit www.kansascityfed.org/research/regionaleconomy/agriculture.cfm. 

Colorado Weekly Hay Report for January 26th

Colorado Hay Report
GL_GR310
Greeley, CO    Thu Jan 26, 2012    USDA-CO Dept of Ag Market News

Compared to last week:  Trading activity and movement was moderate with good
demand.  Prices remain steady to firm.  Inventories continue to be limited with
the Southwest, San Luis Valley, and Southeast areas of the state reporting
especially scarce availability.  Most hay that is still in the stack has been
previously contracted and is waiting to be shipped.  Small square bales of horse
quality hay continue to be limited.  With most farmers in the state being sold
out, discussions have turned towards new crop pricing; however, many buyers and
sellers are hesitant to agree on prices yet.  Snow accumulation in the mountains
did result in an increase in the snowpack statewide by 8 percent from last week
with every region reporting increases over the previous weekÂ’s total.

If you have hay for sale or need hay, use the services of the Colorado
Department of Agriculture website: www.coloradoagriculture.com.  All prices
reported FOB the stack or barn unless otherwise noted.  Prices are from the most
recent sales.

Snowpack statewide averaged 74 percent of normal this week.  Yampa and White
64 percent, Colorado 70 percent, North Platte 69 percent, South Platte 82
percent, Arkansas 86 percent, Upper Rio Grande 88 percent, Gunnison 74 percent,
and (San Miguel, Dolores, Animas, San Juan) 78 percent.

Northeast Colorado Areas 

01-25-12 *The White House* President Obama’s Blueprint to Make The Most of America’s Energy Resources

In his State of the Union Address, President Obama laid out a Blueprint for an America Built to Last, underscoring his commitment to an all-of-the-above approach that develops every available source of American energy. This commitment includes the safe and responsible production of our oil and natural gas resources. Today, American oil production is at the highest level in eight years and last year we relied less on foreign oil than in any of the past 16 years.

At the same time, the President believes we need to double-down on clean energy in the United States. Transitioning to cleaner sources of energy will enhance our national security, protect the environment and public health, and grow our economy and create new jobs. Over the past few years, renewable energy use has nearly doubled. In fact, in 2011, the United States reclaimed the position as the world’s leading investor in clean energy – but staying on top will depend on smart, aggressive action moving forward.

President Obama will begin the second day of his post-State of the Union swing with an event at a UPS facility in Las Vegas, focusing on the importance of American workers developing American-made energy for an economy that’s built to last. Following this event, the President will travel to Buckley Air Force Base in Aurora, Colorado to deliver remarks on American energy and the steps his Administration is taking to promote energy security.

President Obama’s Plan to Advance Safe Production of Oil and Gas Resources To Create Jobs, Enhance Energy Security, and Cut Pollution

01-26-12 Limousin and Lim-Flex Champions Selected at 2012 National Western Stock Show

DENVER – (January 27, 2012) - Limousin breeders competed for top honors at the Level I National Medal of Excellence (MOE) Limousin and Lim-Flex® show at the 2012 National Western Livestock Show in Denver. Lance Sennett of Waynetown, Ind. had the honors of evaluating the Limousin and Lim-Flex cattle in the MOE show

01-26-12 National FFA Organization Seeks Young Farmers

New Century Farmer Conference Prepares Young Farmers for Success in the 21st Century

INDIANAPOLIS – The National FFA Organization is now accepting applications for its 2012 New Century Farmer conference.
This exclusive, highly competitive conference is open to college of agriculture students who intend to pursue careers in production agriculture after college. Those selected to attend the conference will be among the first in the nation to learn about the latest technological developments in the agriculture industry, and they will receive business management advice from top industry leaders. The program will also help students develop a nationwide network of industry professionals and colleagues.

The conference is free to those students who are selected and will take place July 8-14 in Johnstown, Iowa. The deadline for applications is March15 at 5 p.m. EST. Only the top applicants will be selected to participate. Potential participants can learn more about the program and download an application at www.ffa.org/collegiate.

The conference is sponsored by Pioneer Hi-Bred, a DuPont business; Case IH; CSX Corporation; and Farm Credit as a special project of the National FFA Foundation. Successful Farming is a media partner of the conference.

01-26-12 *CSU-Ext Morgan County* CSU EXTENSION SEEDLING TREE APPLICATIONS

Morgan County Extension is accepting applications for the 2012 seedling tree program and some species numbers are running low.  Morgan County Extension is a cooperator with the Colorado State Forest Service on this program. The purpose of the program is to enable rural landowners to plant effective windbreaks that will reduce erosion, protect homes, cropland, livestock, highways and enhance wildlife habitat, all at a nominal cost to the landowner. 

To participate in the seedling tree program, landowners must own at least two acres of land and agree not to use the trees for ornamental or landscaping purposes. These trees cannot be resold as living plants and are grown for their conservation benefits only.

Plan the site before ordering and planting and make and keep a diagram of the plan.  Site preparation is crucial to the survival of the plantings.  Prepare the site much like preparing a garden for planting.

A buyer’s guide that shows pictures and gives information about the trees is available from the Extension office, along with “Trees for Conservation,” a publication developed by the Colorado State Forest Service with detailed information on planning, planting and care.

Trees need to be ordered by March 1, 2012 and will be distributed on Thursday, March 29^th   at the Extension office at 914 E. Railroad Ave.   For more information or an application, contact Jamie Dixon or Marlin Eisenachat 970-542-3540.

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01-26-12 *ATTN: Weld County Residents* FREE Discount Prescription Drug Card Offers Weld Residents Savings on Medications

WELD COUNTY, CO – Weld County residents wanting to save money on prescription medication can now take advantage of a discount prescription drug card program made available by the Weld County Board of Commissioners through the National Association of Counties (NACo).
The card is free, available to all Weld County residents, and offers up to a 24% discount of prescription drugs not covered by health insurance or Medicare or if you need a prescription drug but do not have medical insurance.
“We understand the difficulties many residents have when they need to pay for prescriptions – many of which can be quite costly,” said Chairman of the Board of Weld County Commissioners Sean Conway. “This card can provide some assistance to reduce the costs of prescriptions not covered by insurance, and it does so at no cost to the user or to the county.”
The card is available at the Weld County Department of Public Health, the Weld County Administration Building or online at www.caremark.com/naco — just follow the simple on-screen instructions to obtain and immediately print your discount card.
The card can be used at more than 100 pharmacies throughout Weld County. A complete list of participating pharmacies is also located on the www.caremark.com/naco web site.
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