11-10-11 *AFBI NEWS* Republicans Cut Themselves Short By Failing to Include Estate Tax Repeal in Plan

In response to the first deficit reduction offer released by GOP Members of the Super Committee – an offer which included keeping the current 35 percent Federal Estate Tax rate – the American Family Business Institute’s (AFBI) President Dick Patten released the following statement:

“Republicans serving on the Super Committee cut themselves short by including Federal Estate Taxes as part of their deficit reduction plan.

“If the Super Committee were to propose estate tax repeal over keeping the current estate tax rate, they could actually raise GPD by $1 trillion more and reduce the deficit by an additional 10 percent over the 10-year budget period, according to a recent study by the American Family Business Foundation.

“Furthermore, two of the Super Committee GOP members are signers of AFBI’s ‘Death Tax Repeal Pledge’ and a majority of both Republican and Democrat members have previously supported repeal.  This is not the policy recommendation America’s family businesses – the nation’s top job producers – would expect.

“Going forward, AFBI strongly urges all members of the Super Committee to recommend death tax repeal as a part of their deficit reduction plan.”

The GOP offer was reportedly rejected by Democrats.

# # #

The American Family Business Institute, www.nodeathtax.org, is a national, non-partisan organization of farmers and business owners who are committed to permanent repeal of the Death Tax. 

The American Family Business Foundation focuses on questions about the federal estate tax and its impact on family businesses, farms, and the overall economy. 

11-10-11 Statement from Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on Record Growth of U.S. Agricultural Exports in Fiscal Year 2011

WASHINGTON, Nov. 10, 2011–Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack made the following statement today after USDA released its final tally for agricultural exports in fiscal year 2011: “Thanks to the productivity of America’s farmers, ranchers and producers, the American brand of agriculture is surging in popularity worldwide. Farm exports in fiscal year 2011 reached a record high of $137.4 billion—exceeding past highs by $22.5 billion—and supported 1.15 million jobs here at home. Furthermore, agriculture continues to bolster our nation’s economy by contributing a trade surplus year after year. This year, that surplus hit a record $42.7 billion. And next year looks equally strong for the U.S. agricultural economy, thanks in part to President Obama signing new trade agreements with South Korea, Colombia and Panama, which will add an additional $2.3 billion to our export total and support nearly 20,000 American jobs. “U.S. agriculture continues to be a bright spot in America’s economy and a driving force behind export growth, job creation, and our nation’s competitiveness, underscored by the increasing demand for U.S. food and agriculture around the world. For the first full fiscal year, China was the lead export market for farm products, buying almost $20 billion of goods such as soybeans, cotton, tree nuts and hides. There is no doubt that the Asia Pacific region recognizes the United States as a reliable supplier of the highest-quality food and agricultural products, and that’s the message I will take to our trading partners when I travel next week to Vietnam and China to help expand markets and remove barriers to trade for U.S. farm products. Partnerships with growing markets like those in Vietnam and China are integral to the strength of the U.S. economy in the decades ahead. “Strong export performance means higher incomes for farmers and ranchers, more opportunities for small businesses owners, and jobs for folks who package, ship, and market agricultural products. So, thank you to all of America’s farmers, ranchers and producers who continue to make U.S. agriculture a bright spot in our nation’s economy.” #

11-10-11 USDA Streamlines Programs to Help American Agriculture Enhance Productivity, Drive Economic Growth

KANSAS CITY, Mo., Nov. 10, 2011–Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced today that USDA has streamlined a host of programs and processes in an effort to help farmers, ranchers and businesses continue to drive America’s productive agricultural economy. As USDA approaches its 150th anniversary, the changes—quicker disaster assistance, expedited reviews of pending product applications, and less reporting dates—will help USDA build a better, stronger and more efficient Department. Improvements were announced by the Farm Service Agency (FSA), the Risk Management Agency (RMA), and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).

“As USDA continues to find ways to modernize our services, we remain committed to improving the customer experience by streamlining processes, accelerating delivery, and using innovative technologies,” said Vilsack. “The improvements announced today will help businesses respond more quickly to market demands, provide producers with a more responsive farm safety net, and help our customers create jobs. President Obama challenged USDA and other federal agencies to streamline operations, and today USDA is taking a big step toward answering that challenge.”

U.S. agriculture is currently experiencing one of its best years in decades thanks to the productivity, resiliency, and resourcefulness of America’s producers. Overall, American agriculture supports 1 in 12 jobs in the United States and provides American consumers with 86 percent of their food, while maintaining affordability and choice. The efficiencies outlined today will help producers and businesses maintain this competitive edge.

Earlier this year, Vilsack asked USDA leadership to undertake a review of the Department’s operations to identify improvements and innovations to the Department’s services and programs. Many of the process improvements announced today are part of the USDA Customer Service Plan, which identifies key Departmental actions and initiatives aimed at improving customer service. USDA developed this plan in support of the President’s April 27, 2011, Executive Order 13571, on “Streamlining Service Delivery and Improving Customer Service.”

The process improvements announced today include:

11-10-11 Vilsack Announces Recipients for Energy Audits, Renewable Energy Development Assistance, and Feasibility Studies Funding…$50K for CO’s NoCo WindPower, Inc

Colorado - Northern Colorado WindPower, LLC – $50,000

Harrisburg, Pa. – Nov. 10, 2011 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that USDA has selected for funding 67 projects nationwide that are focused on helping rural agricultural producers reduce energy consumption and costs; use renewable energy technologies in their operation; and/or conduct feasibility studies for renewable energy projects. Funding is made available through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), which is authorized by the 2008 Farm Bill. Under Secretary for Rural Development Dallas Tonsager made the announcement on behalf of the Secretary while attending the Pennsylvania meeting of the National Rural Electric Association (NRECA).

“The Obama Administration is committed to making America more energy efficient, and in doing so, more competitive by encouraging rural businesses build renewable energy systems,” said Tonsager. “The projects announced today will provide rural small businesses and agricultural producers the opportunity to conduct feasibility studies for renewable energy system installations. Eligible intermediaries, such as universities, will receive funds to conduct energy audits which will lead to energy savings and initiatives that will reduce energy consumption for years to come.”

Tonsager said that Pennsylvania State University has been selected to receive a $99,676 grant to conduct a statewide initiative that offers technical assistance and workforce solutions through energy audits. Saint Francis University, also in Pennsylvania, was selected to receive $100,000 to help agricultural producers and rural small businesses reduce energy consumption and cost through technical assistance provided by the university.

11-09-11 Many Colorado State Offices will be CLOSED on Veterans Day November 11th

Many state offices closed on Friday

DENVER ­— Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2011 — In observance of Veterans Day, many state offices will be closed Friday, Nov. 11.

State driver’s license offices, the Department of Public Health and Environment’s vital records office, Division of Wildlife Service Centers and administrative offices for executive branch departments will be among the facilities closed Friday.

All Colorado State Parks will be open and staffed, but administrative offices and visitor centers will be closed. State troopers will be patrolling the highways and the Department of Transportation maintenance crews will be working as necessary.

###

11-10-11 *Colorado Corn Op-Ed* Co Corn CEO Mark Sponsler…Supports Boulder County Agriculture Advisory Group Endorsement of GM Crops

As a citizen, a consumer, and one closely involved with the Colorado Corn Growers Association (CCGA) and thousands of farmers throughout this state, I fully support the decision of the Boulder County agricultural advisory group to endorse allowing genetically engineered crops to be grown in Boulder County. This decision was intelligent, based in science, and environmentally friendly.  It is important for the sake of science to stand up against widely broadcast accusations based on fear and misinformation. There have been many of these levied at biotechnology and the use of “state of the science” genetic improvements during the Boulder County public comment process.

Debates about biotechnology are often fought on the grounds of environmental impact, yet there is no proven negative impact of biotechnology on the environment. Rather, credible and scientifically valid data are abundant that substantiate an overwhelming majority of scientists who recognize many benefits to society, including the environmental ones.  The remarkable techniques enable plant geneticists to adapt plants to accommodate greater soil conservation, enhanced water use efficiency, improved soil quality and reduced greenhouse emissions – all while enabling reductions in pesticide use.  All are good for the environment, for farmers and for consumers.

Those debates are just as often quarrels over food safety, even though biotech crops are among the most studied and reviewed foods in the world.  We can know, with confidence born in the scientific method, of the safety of genetically engineered crops.  Even in Europe, the credible scientific community recognizes that food safety is not the reason for their market protection (indirect subsidy) policies.  They also recognize that genetic modification occurs in nature whether or not we condone it …or control it.

On behalf of the Colorado Corn Growers, I complement the advisory group for seeing past the rhetoric, recognizing the merits of the science, and making a responsible recommendation to the Boulder County Commissioners.

Submitted by:

Mark Sponsler

Colorado Corn Growers Association

Executive Director

970.351.8201

11-10-11 USDA Expands People’s Garden Initiative to Sow Seeds for Community-Based Agriculture across the Country

Denver Urban Gardens, Colorado, $70,000

WASHINGTON, Nov. 10, 2011–Agriculture Deputy Secretary Kathleen Merrigan visited a community garden in Baltimore today to announce 10 grants to support 155 People’s Gardens in neighborhoods from Maryland to Hawaii, continuing the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) efforts to combat malnutrition while supporting local and regional food systems. These sustainable community gardens will give residents direct access to fresh fruits and vegetables in underserved neighborhoods. A lack of access to fresh and nutritious food fuels obesity and domestic food insecurity—a condition where households experience limited or uncertain access to adequate food.

“The simple act of planting a garden can help unite neighborhoods around a common effort and inspire communities to find solutions to challenges facing our country—from hunger to the environment,” said Merrigan. “The People’s Garden Initiative has demonstrated that one direct and effective way of improving food access is to plant a garden. Since establishing our People’s Garden Initiative, we’re excited to see more and more people working together to create nurturing communities around these sources of nutritious food.”

USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) manages the People’s Garden Grant Program (PGGP), with funding from the Agriculture Marketing Service, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Food and Nutrition Service, U.S. Forest Service, and the Natural Resources Conservation Service. The grants announced today, totaling $725,000, are the first awards given under the PGGP. USDA received more than 360 proposals requesting more than $4 million.

PGGP was designed to invest in urban and rural areas identified as food deserts or food insecure areas, particularly those with persistent poverty. In addition, PGGP seeks to address health issues closely related to malnutrition, including food insecurity, obesity, diabetes and heart disease, through onsite education programs.

Projects were funded in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Maryland, Michigan and Ohio. Grants were awarded to:

10-21-11 *Co Corn News* Ag Water Summit Dec. 1, 2011 in Loveland, Colorado…YOU CAN STILL REGISTER AT THE DOOR!

GET REGISTERED BY NOVEMBER 4th!

(The BARN – Briggsdale, CO) October 31st, 2011 – Colorado Ag Water Alliance Chairman Charlie Bartlett discusses the upcoming 2011 Ag Water Summit @ the Ranch in Loveland, CO on December 1st and why producers need to get registered ASAP…

103111_CAWA_Bartlett_6m10s_V3

*********************************************

Water and its impact on agriculture, municipalities and public policy will be the focus of the 2011 Ag Water Summit on Dec. 1 at The Ranch at the Larimer County Fairgrounds in Loveland. EARLY REGISTRATION EXTENDED TO NOVEMBER 10th.

The theme of the event, presented by the Colorado Ag Water Alliance (CAWA), is “Agriculture is the Backbone – Water is the Lifeblood”.

“Water resource management is such a critically important issue in determining the future of Colorado” said Charlie Bartlett, CAWA Chair. “Our state’s agricultural contributions to our own food and energy security, scarcity, and sustainability in decades to come will be effected by how we handle many of the topics addressed in this Summit.”

Topics to be discussed include: water public policy, developing water storage and delivery projects, agriculture working with municipalities, agriculture working with environmental groups, new technology for ag water efficiency, South Platte well measurement rules, alternatives to ag water transfers and recent litigation and rules impacting ag water.

Featured speakers include: John Stulp of Gov. Hickenlooper’s office, Colorado Department of Agriculture Commissioner John Salazar, Jim Martin of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Jennifer Gimbel of the Colorado Water Conservation Board, Bob Streeter of the Colorado Wildlife Commission and many others.

For more information and to register, go to www.coagwater.org. The cost for agricultural producers before Nov. 10 is $50 and $75 after that date. Non-producers are $75 before Nov. 10 and $100 after. Students are free, though registration is required. A Welcome Reception, co-hosted by the Interbasin Compact Committee (IBCC), will be held the evening before the Summit beginning at 5:30 p.m. EARLY REGISTRATION EXTENDED TO NOVEMBER 10th.

11-10-11 Farm Credit Renews Support for America’s Heartland

Underwriting support of season eight enables more award-winning programming to connect the nation’s agriculture producers with millions of non-farm consumers

Kansas City, Mo. (November 10, 2011) – America’s Heartland (www.AmericasHeartland.org) announced today that Farm  Credit (www.FarmCredit.com) has committed to renew its underwriting support for season eight of the award-winning  national television series celebrating American agriculture. This is Farm Credit’s second season to underwrite the program  viewed on more than 240 public television stations as well as the RFD-TV cable and satellite channel.

“Farm Credit’s partnership with America’s Heartland has been mutually beneficial and we are excited to continue with another season,” said Christina Bowen, national contributions director for Farm Credit. “America’s Heartland offers excellent programming that aligns in so many ways with our mission of support to agriculture and rural America and honors farmers and ranchers while sharing their positive stories with the public.”

In addition to underwriting season seven and season eight, Farm Credit will soon be providing valuable multimedia resources for visitors to AmericasHeartland.org through an educational video series called aGROWnomics. aGROWnomics will allow Farm Credit experts to share information about the economics of agriculture and how it affects farmers and consumers.