Roger Bernard
By JODY WYNNEMER
Staff Writer
Agricultural specialists from about the area listened intently to presentations Tuesday morning at New Richland City Hall, which were geared specifically to them.
The first was from Jeff Vetsch from the Southern Research Outreach Center in Waseca. Vetsch spoke about local soil conditions and what chemicals can be applied depending on the soil chemistry.
“Typically, here in Minnesota, we see zinc deficiencies in corn,” said Vetsch. “Telltale signs are pale yellow strips on the plants and stunted growth. Sulfates may also be needed in certain areas. Much of the country used to receive atmospheric sulfates, which were generated from coal-burning electric plants. Now, the number of coal burning operations has been curtailed.”
Roger Bernard was the next speaker. He is the news editor for Pro Farmer magazine out of Cedar Falls, IA. He gave a brief overview of some of the happenings in Washington and their effects on agriculture.
“Capitol Hill is really looking ahead to the 2012 election right now,” said Bernard. “They are dealing with continuing resolutions and the size of government. Jobs and the economy are key factors. The Tea Party had a lot of clout in the primaries, although the GOP doesn’t really have a leading candidate.”
Bernard spoke of the huge budget deficit facing Congress this year.
“They are looking at around $4.3 trillion,” said Bernard. “By 2020, the national debt is projected to be around $20 trillion.
Next, the role of the Department of Agriculture in the federal budget was discussed.
“The USDA accounts for about 2.15 percent of the total budget,” said Bernard. About 75 percent of that amount deals with nutrition such as Food Stamps and the WIC program. There are about 1.8 million acres in CRP right now, about 900,000 acres are crop land.”
The next national farm bill is due out in 2012, and Bernard didn’t appear too optimistic on its future.
“We don’t see any additional funding,” said Bernard. “The Democrats want reform, and that usually means budget cuts. Direct payments may be affected. Dairy is seeing higher feed costs right now and is in a world of hurt.”
Ethanol, especially E-15 blend mandates, were discussed, along with EPA regulations affecting agriculture.
Lastly, Bernard briefly explained U.S. trade policies.
“We are trying to get several trade policies in place,” said Bernard. “Korea, Panama and Columbia are at the top of the list. Higher feed prices are affecting livestock everywhere.”
