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TSTA Annual Meeting and ConventionTexas Seed Trade Association Annual Meeting and Convention
Nov 17

TSTA Weekly Update, 11/17/2022


Weekly Update from the Texas Seed Trade Association
Member News

Attention Sorghum, Sunflower, and Millet Seed Producers

 

It's Growout time again. We've reached out to our friends and cooperators in Puerto Rico and Costa Rica and we are all set to move forward with this season's growouts. Jeb Owen needed your Costa Rica samples by earlier this week. They will be planted the week of November 28th.

 

Puerto Rico samples need to be to Jeb by the end of November and will be planted the week of December 12th.

 

Please download the growout planning & intention form found here for more information and to submit your estimates. Thank you and we'll forward more info as it is available.  

The Texas Seed Trade Association (TSTA) co-sponsored and made program contributions to the Texas Grain & Feed Association (TGFA) Emerging Leaders Program this week in Amarillo and Levelland. Several members of the TGFA leadership program are also members of the TSTA and we have a MOU with TGFA to place TSTA memebrs in their program in return for cooperation and contributions to the program. If you are interested in this excellent program please contact the TSTA office.

 

DiSC training was facilitated for the Leadership Development Program participants on Tuesday afternoon in Amarillo by TSTA executive VP Bryan Gentsch, a Wilson Learning Certified Social Styles instructor. TSTA member, and past president, Cody Poage hosted the group for a tour of the new Dyna-Gro/Nutrien cotton seed conditioning plant in Levelland on Wednesday. Our sincerest thanks to Cody!

 

A dozen emerging leaders participated Wednesday and the TGFA-sponsored regional dinner was attended by over 70 TGFA (and a few TSTA) members on Wednesday evening.

2023 Annual Membership Meeting Registration & Hotel Reservations

 

We are excited to return to Horseshoe Bay Resort for the 2023 Texas Seed Trade Association Annual Meeting, February 12th through February 14th. Join us for the 2nd Annual Scholarship Corn Hole Tournament and annual Super Bowl Party Sunday afternoon. Monday’s General Session will feature officer and board elections, a report on the state of the association, industry speakers and topics important to our business. The president for 2023 will host a dinner and auction that evening. The TSTA board will meet Tuesday morning and is open to all members in good standing.

We look forward to seeing you!

 

Participants & Sponsors Meeting Registration

 

Hotel Room BlockTexas Seed Trade Assoc. Annual Conference 2023

 

ASTA’s largest event of the year, the CSS & Seed Expo 2022, will be opening soon for attendee registration, along with the new menu of sponsorship opportunities at all events for the coming fiscal year (July to June).

After 76 years, the CSS & Seed Expo returns to Chicago, IL for one last time this December 5-8, before the conference moves in 2023 to the Hyatt Regency Orlando for the foreseeable future.

With a theme of “Farewell Chicago,” the event’s website offers tools to submit your favorite conference memories for the many attendees who have been coming to Chicago each December year after year, many for over 30 years and counting.

Already featuring over 70 exhibitors, this year is anticipated to represent a return in full force after smaller numbers in 2021 due to the pandemic.

Visit ASTA Events at www.betterseed.org for more information.

 

Editor's Note: ASTA is headed to Florida. Please join us at the last Chicago CSS meeting!

Texas Plant Protection Conference Dec. 6-7 in Bryan

Changing markets, pesticide, fertilizer, weather outlook to be discussed

 

BRYAN - The agricultural industry is changing, and the upcoming Texas Plant Protection Conference is an opportunity to learn about responding to these changes.

Ronnie Schnell, Texas Plant Protection Association president and Texas A&M AgriLife Research & Extension specialist, invites farmers, ranchers, crop consultants, Extension and other ag industry professionals to a two-day conference Dec. 6-7 at the 34th Annual Texas Plant Protection Conference at the Brazos Center in Bryan, Texas. Ag leaders will discuss changing markets, changing pesticide and fertilizer outlooks as well as changing weather patterns and the impact of these changes on Texas agriculture.

The conference begins with a general session. Following a welcome by Dr. Jeffrey Savell, Vice Chancellor and Dean of Agriculture and Life Sciences for Texas A & M AgriLife, Dr. Mark Welch, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service grain marketing economist, will discuss “Global Markets Outlook and Impact on Texas Agriculture”.

 

After a short break to view ag research posters and industry displays, Chris Novak, President & CEO of CropLife America, will present information on “The Pesticide Forecast- Innovation, Opportunity & Challenge”.  Toby Hlavinka, President & CEO of American Plant Food Corporation, will discuss “Fertilizer – Supply & Pricing Outlook”. The morning session ends with a presentation on “Weather Patterns Impact on Texas Agriculture” by Eric Snodgrass, Science Fellow and Principal Atmospheric Scientist with Nutrien Ag Solutions.

 

After lunch, the afternoon Consultant Session includes discussions on “Gossypol-free Cottonseed Could Help Solve World Hunger’ by Keerti Rathore with Texas A & M University. Dalton Ludwick, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Entomology Specialist, will present information on “Stink Bug Control in Sorghum”. “An update on “Carbon Credit Contracts” will be presented by Tiffany Lashmet, J.D., Texas A & M AgriLife Extension Law Specialist.

 

Following an afternoon break, Dr. Barron Rector, AgriLife Extension range specialist, will conduct his Pest ID Contest. It’s a fun way to learn more about ag pest in Texas. The first day of the conference ends with New Technology & Chemistry updates by industry technical specialists.

 

The second day of the conference begins with a Law & Regulations Session that includes an update from Perry Cervantes with the Texas Department of Agriculture. Then “Federal Pesticide Policy Updates” will be led by Rod Snyder, Senior Advisor for Agriculture to the EPA Administrator in Washington, DC.

 

The remainder of the program consists of concurrent sessions on Cotton, Horticulture/Turf, Grain, Pasture & Rangeland, Water& Irrigation and Fertility Management. These sessions feature the latest from Texas A&M AgriLife and industry leaders.

 

Ray Smith, the Texas Plant Protection Association Board Chairman, reminds conference attendees to be sure and attend the Awards Luncheon at noon on the second day of the conference.  Several TPPA Awards are presented including the Norman Borlaug Lifetime Achievement Award.

 

Continuing Education Credits (CEUs) will be offered for both TDA and CCA.  For more information or to register to attend the conference either in person or virtually visit the TPPA website: www.texasplantprotection.com . Discounts are available for early registration and for farmers.

Independent Professional Seed Association (IPSA)

 

IPSA's 34rd annual conference will be held January 23-24, 2023 in Tucson, AZ.

 

There are some different things this year we would like to cover:

 

• We will have all receptions on site this year to take advantage of the beautiful scenery of the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort! One of the receptions is titles the "Legends of Independence" where we will have a chili cook off and a salsa competition. During your registration, you will have the ability to register for each of those events - or judge!

 

• We will be offering a Flash Networking corner for you have quick 20-minute meetings during breaks! This is very new to IPSA and we hope this will bring a new benefit to our conference. These meetings will need to be prescheduled and can be done on the Conference App! For questions, please contact Cat at 

 

• In the agenda this year, we have built in a large amount of time for networking and visiting the exhibitors.

 

For more information click here.

In an effort to update and maintain our membership records we request you take a few moments and fill out the very brief info request at the following link.

 

https://forms.gle/SC6QDSgqUVixUqAo8

 

The link is secure and the information will be used internally by the Texas Seed Trade Association and never shared without your permission. This request is on behalf of your association's board of directors and officers and we greatly appreciate your cooperation. Thank you!

 

11/17/22 - If you have not updated your information please take a moment and do so now. We appreciate it! We continue to update this database and need your input!

News Bits

 

The U.S. corn and soybean harvests got closer to the finish over the past week.

 

Weather in most key U.S. growing areas last week was conducive to harvest activity, but snow and bitterly cold temperatures this week in parts of Midwest and Plains might mean that some corn and beans could stay in the field until spring.

 

The USDA says that as of Sunday 93% of corn is harvested, compared to the five-year average of 85%, with 96% of soybeans harvested, compared to 91% on average.

 

96% of the U.S. winter wheat crop is planted, compared to the normal rate of 93%, and 81% has emerged, matching the usual pace, with 32% of the crop rated good to excellent, up 2% on the week, but down 14% on the year.

 

71% of cotton is harvested, compared to 63% on average.

 

The USDA's next set of production numbers is out December 9th.

 

Spending time with family and friends at Thanksgiving remains important for many Americans and this year the cost of the meal is also top of mind. Farm Bureau's 37th annual survey provides a snapshot of the average cost of this year's classic Thanksgiving feast for 10, which is $64.05 or less than $6.50 per person. This is a $10.74 or 20% increase from last year's average of $53.31.

 

The Scoop magazine reports:

 

Announced in early November, the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) reached a $4.97 million settlement with Amazon.com Services, LLC.

 

Violations included Amazon selling unregistered pesticides in California, failing to report and pay required mill assessment fees associated with the sale of registered pesticides in California, and failing to hold a valid pesticide broker's license.

 

As announced by DPR, Amazon will pay $3.69 million in unpaid pesticide sales assessment fees and related late penalties, and $1.28 million in civil penalties associated with retail sales of unregistered pesticides into California.

 

"It is critical that those selling pesticides in California, especially companies with Amazon's resources, reach and influence, comply with pesticide laws that protect the health of all Californians and our environment," said DPR Director Julie Henderson. "DPR's action should send a message to all pesticide sellers, including online sellers, that California will take action to protect the health and safety of its people and environment."

 

To read the entire report click here.

 

A tract of farmland in northwest Iowa has sold at auction for the astounding price of $30,000 an acre. The 73 acres went to a local farmer, according to Zomer Co. Realty and Auction.

 

 

Russia moves to end import dependence on seeds

Vladislav Vorotnikov Eastern European correspondent as appeared in All About Feed

 

The Russian Agricultural Ministry has disclosed plans to expand state aid to farmers switching to domestic seeds to speed up import-replacement in this field. The earlier plans of introducing import quotas on seeds from countries deemed unfriendly seem to be abandoned for now.

Looking to friendly nations for seeds

 

In the first half of 2022, Russian agricultural producers experienced certain difficulties associated with imported seeds, Dmitry Patrushev, Russian Agricultural Minister, said during a recent government meeting. “To quickly resolve these issues, we have made full use of the possibilities of our own selection and also switched to supplies from friendly countries,” Patrushev said, not providing any additional details.

 

Minimum 75% domestic seed use

 

Under the Russian food security doctrine, the country must meet its domestic demand for seeds by at least 75%. In 2021, this level stood at 63.5%, with most imported seeds being delivered from the European Union. Although agricultural trade was not subjected to sanctions introduced over the military conflict in Ukraine, supplies were disrupted to a certain degree.

Together with the scientific community and business, we are developing systematic approaches to give an impetus to the development of Russian selection.

Domestic seed cultivation a priority

 

Patrushev said that despite the problems, the sowing season went off without a hitch, and winter sowing is also fully provided with seeds. Still, a significant and most prompt increase in import substitution in this segment is currently seen as one of the main priorities for the Russian agricultural industry. “To do this, we expand the area for laying seed plots. Together with the scientific community and business, we are developing systematic approaches to give an impetus to the development of Russian selection,” he said.

 

ALSO INTERESTING: Russian grain and feed sectors suffer as war in Ukraine continues -The continuing war in Ukraine is starting to weigh heavily on Russian agriculture, though the middle-term production and export prospects still look optimistic. Read more…

 

Colossal damage from quota introduction

 

At the end of August, the Agricultural Ministry proposed establishing a quota for the import of seeds of potatoes, sunflowers, wheat, meslin, rye, barley, corn, soybeans, rapeseed and sugar beets from the USA, EU countries, Canada, Australia, Norway, Ukraine, Albania, Montenegro, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Great Britain and Northern Ireland. However, several Russian business unions wrote an open letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin asking him not to take this step, warning about the colossal damage it could do to agricultural business.

 

Foreign seed use in Russian agri

 

It was estimated that the share of foreign seeds in Russian agriculture exceeds 97% in sugar beet, 73% in sunflower, 49% in rapeseed, and 45% in non-GMO soybeans.

 

“Limiting their [imported seeds] use will lead to catastrophic consequences for the [Russian agricultural] industry, given that a significant share of the sown area falls on obsolete inefficient varieties of the Soviet selection,” the authors of the letter warned.

ADAMA'S SORGHUM CROPPING SOLUTION DOUBLE TEAM RECEIVES PRODUCT AWARD

Source: PRNewswire

 

RALEIGH, N.C., /PRNewswire/ -- ADAMA US was recognized by the judges of the Crop Science Forum & Awards for its Double Team Sorghum Cropping Solution with FirstAct Herbicide in the category for Best New Crop Protection Product or Trait this year. It was given High Commendations by the judges who acknowledged that it was virtually a tie with Syngenta Crop Protection (the winner) in this category. The Crop Science Forum & Awards took place on November 10, 2022 and is the crop science industry's premier global event which recognizes excellence in the crop protection and production markets.

 

"Double Team is a unique collaboration between ADAMA and S&W Seed Company, that solves an unmet need for sorghum growers by providing a simple and efficient solution," said Dave Feist, Seed and Product Collaboration Strategy Leader for ADAMA US. "It provides unparalleled, over-the-top grass control in sorghum, with excellent crop safety."

 

Until now, if growers had any significant amount of grass weeds or volunteer crop in their sorghum crop, they essentially had to destroy the crop. The grasses and weeds out-compete the crop by monopolizing the moisture and nutrients in the soil.

 

With water increasingly scarce, sorghum - used heavily in feed and bioethanol-synthesis - is becoming a more desirable crop to growers due to its ability to tolerate drought and extreme temperatures more effectively. And with FirstAct herbicide controlling grass weeds, growers can now gain a higher potential ROI from their sorghum fields.

 

"The recent drought and declining irrigation water has growers looking to sorghum as a solution on the High Plains," said Scott Staggenborg, Sorghum Product Marketing Director for S&W Seed. "Our customers tell us that because of grass weeds, the only way sorghum will work is with Double Team Sorghum."

 

S&W developed the non-GMO DT Trait Sorghum that is tolerant to the ADAMA FirstAct herbicide, and when used together, they lead to the highly effective Double Team Sorghum Cropping Solution.

 

To learn more about the Double Team Sorghum Cropping Solution with FirstAct herbicide, visit doubleteamsorghum.com

 

About ADAMA

 

ADAMA Is one of the world's leading crop protection companies. We strive to Create Simplicity in Agriculture - offering farmers effective products and services that simplify their lives and help them grow. With one of the most comprehensive and diversified portfolios of differentiated, quality products, our 5,000-strong team reaches farmers in more than 100 countries, providing them with solutions to control weeds, insects, and disease, and improve their yields. For more information, visit us at www.adama.com.

 

About S&W Seed Company

 

Founded in 1980, S&W Seed Company is a global agricultural company headquartered in Longmont, Colorado. S&W's vision is to be the world's preferred proprietary seed company that supplies a range of forage and specialty crop products and supports the growing global demand for animal proteins and healthier consumer diets. S&W is a global leader in proprietary alfalfa and sorghum seeds, with significant research and development, production, and distribution capabilities. The company's Sorghum Partners brand provides high-quality sorghum seeds that are planted on millions of acres around the world. For more information, please visit www.swseedco.com and www.sorghumpartners.com.

 

Editor's Note: S&W Seed Company is a valued member of the Texas Seed Trade Association

UPL'S ADVANTA SEEDS AND BUNGE TO ACQUIRE STAKE IN BRAZILIAN SOYBEAN GERMPLASM CO. SEEDCORP HO

Source: UPL Ltd. news release

 

LONDON -- UPL Ltd. (NSE: UPL & BSE: 512070 LSE: UPLL) ('UPL'), a global provider of sustainable agricultural solutions, today announced that its company, Advanta Seeds UK, and Bunge (NYSE: BG) have signed an agreement to acquire a 20% stake each in SEEDCORP|HO.

 

This intended investment is part of UPL Group's OpenAg purpose to drive collaboration to offer a complete package of solutions for farmers. It also underscores the company's commitment to supporting every stage of the agricultural process, from sowing to post-harvest.

 

Bhupen Dubey, CEO of Advanta Seeds said: "As we continue to grow our global footprint, this investment will not only expand our market access in Brazil but also strengthen our product portfolio as SEEDCORP|HO is Brazil's third largest Soybean Germplasm company".

 

Through the agreement, Bunge intends to expand its barter portfolio to reinforce its grain sourcing position in Brazil.

 

Rossano de Angelis Jr, Vice President of Agribusiness at Bunge, said: "With this transaction we will further solidify the relationship with our partners during harvest planning. Combined with our technical expertise and market knowledge, we will be able to advise on the adoption of seed varieties that best meet demand, including meeting the demand for more sustainable solutions with a focus on reducing the carbon footprint of the entire growing process."

 

The deal also expands the portfolio of products and services to be offered by Orígeo, a recently announced joint venture between Bunge and UPL, which will provide complete and sustainable solutions for farmers in Brazil.

 

Mário Sérgio Carvalho, CEO of SEEDCORP|HO, said: "SEEDCORP|HO has achieved strong results over the last few years, and the partnership with Bunge and UPL's Advanta Seeds has the potential to further strengthen our growth strategy thanks to our robust portfolio and R&D capacity for seed production."

 

SEEDCORP|HO was established in partnership between GDM, Produtiva Sementes, and Sipar. The agreement with Advanta Seeds and Bunge is subject to customary precedent conditions agreed by the parties, including approval from competent Antitrust Agencies.

 

Editor's Note: Advanta is a valued member of the Texas Seed Trade Association

Corteva Agriscience has won a Crop Science Award in the “Best Industry Collaboration” category together with BASF Agricultural Solutions and M.S. Technologies L.L.C. for the collaboration of a mutually beneficial trait licensing agreement that was announced in June 2022. The awards – formerly Agrow Awards – were presented as part of the virtual Crop Science Forum by S&P Global Commodity Insights and recognize excellence in crop protection and digital agriculture industries worldwide. 2022 marked the 15th year of the Crop Science Awards, with a total of 12 categories.

 

The three companies announced the execution of a mutually beneficial trait licensing agreement to develop an industry first-of-its-kind soybean trait stack. BASF licensed its nematode resistant soybean (NRS) trait to Corteva and MS Technologies for use in Enlist E3® soybeans. In turn, Corteva and MS Technologies licensed the Enlist E3 soybean trait to BASF for development with the NRS trait in BASF germplasm. The transgenic soybean event in Enlist E3 soybeans is jointly developed and owned by Corteva Agriscience and M.S. Technologies L.L.C.

The award demonstrates great collaboration within the industry to ensure farmers have the technology needed to effectively and efficiently solve in-field challenges on their farms.

 

Editor's Note: Corteva and BASF are both valued members of the Texas Seed Trade Association.

 

Texas Seed Trade Association | www.texasseedtrade.com
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