4502 Avenue I, Scottsbluff, Nebraska 69361 - …beangrower.com/uploads/3/4/3/6/34369283/spring_bean_bag_2015.pdf4502 Avenue I, Scottsbluff, Nebraska 69361 . ... Bob Harveson 631‐5953

Spring Edi on 2015 Volume 33, Number 1

4502 Avenue I, Scottsbluff, Nebraska 69361

Spring Edition The Bean Bag Page 3

About The Bean Bag The Bean Bag is a regional publication for the dry bean industry targeted to growers and decision-makers involved in the production and sales of Ne-braska-grown dry edible beans. It is published five times a year as Spring, Summer, Harvest, Winter, and Bean Day issues by the Nebraska Dry Bean Growers Association, a nonprofit organization of dry edible bean growers in Nebraska. Publishing articles or advertisements in The Bean Bag does not constitute an endorsement of the views or products by the Nebraska Dry Bean Growers Association. Materials published may be reproduced if credited to The Bean Bag. Editorial, advertising, and mailing materials may be emailed to [email protected] or mailed to The Bean Bag, 4502 Avenue I, Scottsbluff, Ne-braska 69361. Subscriptions to The Bean Bag for Nebraska dry bean producers are provided compliments of the Nebraska Dry Bean Commission. Others may pur-chase subscriptions for $10 a year by sending a check and subscription information to the Nebraska Dry Bean Growers Association, 4502 Avenue I, Scottsbluff, NE 69361.

District IV

THREE REPRESENTATIVES

ARE NEEDED FOR THIS DISTRICT

At‐Large

Dan Fitts 641‐4887

Jeff Nichol 641‐8604

Matt Thorson 760‐6220

Chad Thomas 760‐5809

Ex‐Officio Director

Bob Harveson 631‐5953

Nebraska Dry Bean Commission Rep

Wes Ullrich 641‐2772

District I

Curtis Cloud 247‐9851

David Howell 672‐7998

Paul Pieper 247‐2737

District II

Jerry Mackie 672‐6837

Dean Keener 631‐7194

Jeff Jenkins 641‐3457

District III

John Maser Jr. 6315632

Mario Pitts 637‐4573

Nebraska Dry Bean Growers Association

4502 Avenue I, Scottsbluff, NE 69361

308‐633‐1387, [email protected]

ONE REPRESENTATIVE IS NEEDED FOR THIS DISTRICT

Howdy friends and neighbors; as promised my job is to spill the beans—we want communication through The Bean Bag to reach all interested people in the dry bean industry, so here goes. We had a very good turnout for “Bean Day 2015” January 13th at the Gering Civic Center. Anytime Rick and Judy Keller are managing they make the day really easy for us to have a great meeting. We started the meeting with a report from PREC Director Jack Whittier about the future of our panhandle station. By the way if you haven’t met Jack yet, stop in and visit with him and the rest of the

staff. They gave a lot of good info about growing beans, check out some of that in this issue. Also if you missed the meetings, check out this link on the web panhandle.unl.edu. Cindi Allen from the Dry Bean Commission reported about her trade trips to promote Nebraska beans in emerging markets. If ever we need to explore emerging markets it is now; thanks Cindi for representing us across the globe. John Berge from the NRD shared some exciting opportunities for interactive AG Mapping and several programs to sign up for. John is a gift to us farmers in his capacity as General Manager of the NPNRD, thanks John. Dr. Henry Thompson, Director of the Cancer Prevention Lab at CSU in Fort Collins is an amazing promoter of edible beans for a healthy diet as well as disease prevention. I firmly believe if eve-ryone in the U.S. could hear his presentation, we would struggle to produce enough beans just to meet demand nation-ally. That is not an exaggeration: wow he has a passion that fires us up to share our message of eating healthy beans. We also hosted a combine forum on how to set up and maintain a quality bean from the field to the scale. Last but not least, Duane Matz, Director of USDBC, shared the vision of how a national organization can help us to meet needs of growers and processors while promoting our industry. The future looks bright with Duane’s hands on the reins, thanks Duane!! It was an informative day—check out the Agenda for Bean Day on page 4. Of course, without our sponsors

Spilling

the

Beans... Dean Keener

See “Spilling” on page 26

Page 4 The Bean Bag Spring Edition

Bean Day 2015 Registration

Welcome Dean Keener, President—Nebraska Dry Bean Growers Association Jack Whittier, Director—Panhandle Research and Extension Center University of Nebraska Researchers John Thomas, Cropping Systems Extension Educator—”Direct Harvest: Yield Loss Research” Carlos Urrea, Bean Breeder—”Release of a Great Northern and a Pinto Dry Bean Line” and “Plant Population” Nebraska Dry Bean Commission Cindi Allen, District IV Grower Representative—”Ethiopia and the Republic of Congo. Emerging Markets “ North Platte Natural Resources District Dave Wolf, Information/Education Coordinator—”Interactive Agricultural Mapping” Break University of Nebraska Researchers Gary Hergert, Nutrient Management and Soil Quality Specialist —“Summary of Iron Chelates on Dry Beans” Bob Harveson, Plant Pathologist— “New Chemical Copper-Alternative Products for Bacterial Disease Management”. Jeff Bradshaw, Entomologist—”Harvest Quality and Insect Resistance in Dry Beans” NDBGA Annual Meeting Colorado State University Henry Thompson, PhD, Director of the Cancer Prevention Laboratory—”What is the Future of Beans in Health and Wellness?” Lunch Combine Forum—”Adjusting for Maximum Productivity and Quality” Neil Harper, CEO and General Manager Pickett Equipment Chad Bomberger, Manager 21st Century Equipment, Bridgeport Jeff Lygeros, General Manager HorizonWest Inc. US Dry Bean Council Duane Maatz, Director—”USDBC Update”


Iron Deficiency Chlorosis Research for Dry Beans

Gary W. Hergert and Jim Schild

See “Iron” on page 23

Dry beans are sensi ve to iron deficiency chlorosis (IDC). Early a empts used field screening to iden fy tol-erant varie es; however, this technique can be highly variable. Past research showed inconsistent responses to foliar solu ons of iron sulfate. Iron chelates have been used to treat IDC in many crops but there is limited informa on for dry beans. This study was designed to determine whether the addi on of row-applied FeED-DHA (iron chelate) will provide significant yield improvement for high pH calcareous soils in the High Plain dry bean growing region.

Procedure:

Research was conducted using FeDDHA (SoyGreen®) in a replicated strip trial on four dry bean varie es from 2011 and con nued through 2014. Irrigated fields at the PHREC sta on previously in corn were used. The soil was a Tripp fine sandy loam. Soil analyses are listed in Table 1. DTPA levels of Fe and Zn were in the mild deficiency range. The Mn level was adequate.

Table 1. Soil test values for the 2011 to 2014 dry bean Fe research plots.

Four dry bean varie es represen ng two market classes were selected because they are planted on over 75% of the western NE, eastern WY area according to area dry bean field men. The four varie es were Marquis (GreatNorthern), Orion (GN), Poncho (Pinto) and Montrose (P). The experimental design was a randomized complete block with 5 to 6 replica ons in 4-row plots 25 feet long in 22 inch rows. Corn stalks were shredded in April. The area received 60# of N as urea before plowing in mid-May. No P was applied as soil test levels indicated an adequate level. A John Deere 71 plate planter was equipped with a small electric fer lizer pump and applied a water solu on of FeEDDHA (SoyGreen®) at 6 gallons per acr. Seed drop was ~86,000 seeds per acre. Plan ng date ranged from June 5 to 8 depending on year. Plant popula on was counted in early July. Plots were undercut in mid-September and the center two rows were threshed with a small plot combine.

Results:

Soil moisture condi ons at plan ng varied each year but stands were generally good. Final plant stand in 2011 was adequate for most varie es (>40K) except Poncho. Stand was reduced significantly due to early hail and crus ng. Considering the low plant popula ons and hail effects, dry bean yields were very good in 2011 (Table 2). The field was sprayed with a mixture of Kocide and Headline following a June 16 hail. There

Soil test parameter

Year pH Organic Ma er

Olsen P NO3-N

#/3 feet

DTPA-Fe ppm

DTPA-Zn ppm DTPA-Mn ppm

2011 8.3 1.5% 16 ppm 60 3.7 0.6 3.2

2012 8.4 1.6% 8 ppm 55 3.3 1.8 3.9

2013 8.4 1.3% 14 ppm 65 3.8 0.8 3.3

2014 8.1 2.0% 21 ppm 75 4.63 1.2 4.9

Soil test parameter

Year pH Organic Ma er

Olsen P NO3-N

#/3 feet

DTPA-Fe ppm

DTPA-Zn ppm DTPA-Mn ppm

2011 8.3 1.5% 16 ppm 60 3.7 0.6 3.2

2012 8.4 1.6% 8 ppm 55 3.3 1.8 3.9

2013 8.4 1.3% 14 ppm 65 3.8 0.8 3.3

2014 8.1 2.0% 21 ppm 75 4.63 1.2 4.9


Performance of a Great Northern and a Pinto Variety Trial

Grown at Bayard and Morrill, NE in 2014

Carlos A. Urrea and Eduardo Valentin Cruzado, Dry Bean Breeder and Dry Bean Technologist, Uni-versity of Nebraska- PREC; Dave Dietrich and Courtney Schuler, Field Specialist and Business

Development Manager, Stateline Producers Cooperative

In 2014, the Stateline Producers Coopera ve conducted a great northern and a pinto variety trial in Bayard and Morrill, NE at the Henkel and Clyncke Farms, respec vely. Six commercial great northern lines and 12 experimental pinto lines were tested in replicated trials (2 and 4 replicates, respec vely) with 30-inch row spacing (Tables 1 & 2). Average size of each replicate was 1.75 acres for the great northern trial and 0.25 acres for the pinto trial.

Agronomics

Henkel Farms – Great Northern Variety Trial Planted June 3, 2014 – Target popula on of 85,000 (72,624 final popula on) Field was corn in 2013 Pre-emergent – Eptam Outlook Applied 25# N & 35# P Applica on of Copper & Headline for Blight Post applica on of Raptor Basagran

Cur s Clyncke / Clyncke Farms – Pinto Variety Trial

Planted June 4, 2014 – Target popula on of 87,000 (88,221 final popula on) Field was corn in 2013, stalks not pastured Field was disked and strip- lled before plan ng. Pre-emergent – Eptam / Sonalan Fer lizer applied – 22-22-0-0-7-0-.5 Post applica on of Raptor / Basagran Copper was applied August 10.

See “Variety” on page 11



We have all heard the children’s song celebrating the ability of bean consumption to induce abnormally high levels of flatulence. However, the song’s advice to “have beans for every meal” could not be more celebrated, not for the juvenile thrill of clearing a small room, but for the chronic health benefits this staple crop provides.

Beans have unusually high levels of phenolic compounds, mainly in their hulls, which compares favorably to more well-known and expensive commodities such as grapes or blueberries. Many of us have heard of the many health benefits associated with resveratrol, a phenolic compound found in grape skins. Resveratrol has been linked to treating a myriad of diseases in laboratory settings including heard disease, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and diabetes. However, these health benefits require massive doses of this compound to elicit any significant benefit. The amount of resveratrol given per dose in studies is around 200 mg/kg body weight. This is equivalent to about 2000 liters of red wine per dose. Obviously, these kinds of doses of a single com-pound are unrealistic for a single compound. However, when multiple compounds are used together, they can function synergistically, becoming more than the whole.

We have recently started studying the synergy of pure phenols native to dry edible beans (DEB) to elicit anti-inflammatory effects in white blood cells. This effort is designed to uncover a passive method of treating macrophage-mediated chronic inflammatory diseases. These include arthritis, heart disease, cancer, and neu-rodegenerative diseases among others. To date we have exciting preliminary data highlighting many phenols native to pinto beans work synergistically at very low concentrations (low nM, that is 10-9 M or about 0.01 mg/kg) making them suitable for use in a functional-food and perhaps clinically relevant at reasonable doses from a whole-food. Using our previous wine example, this would be like requiring 0.1 liters of wine, or about 1 glass.

For example, white blood cells activated to a pro-inflammatory state were exposed to 3 different phenols that are present in pinto beans. When each phenol was applied individually, there was no effect on the inflamma-tory response. However, when used together at a 1:1 ratio, the white blood cells were rescued from their pro-inflammatory state. This indicates that the phenols native to pinto beans have a very strong anti-inflammatory effect at extremely low doses. Exactly how the phenols function together, has yet to be determined, but is im-portant to understand to formulate any potential clinical therapeutic interventions.

To date we have only started to scratch the surface of what beans are capable of treating. While we forge ahead using isolated compounds to understand the language they are speaking, we are also using various culti-vars of DEB to determine how their phenolic composition affects white blood cells in culture and in animal studies. The ultimate objective is to create a bean high in synergistically acting phenolics as a value-added functional food.

Beans, Beans, the Magical Fruit Cameron Murphy, Vicki Schlegel, University of Nebraska, Lincoln

Carlos Urrea, University of Nebraska Panhandle Research and Extension Center

Visit our Website

beangrower.com


Con nuing Studies Tes ng Copper‐Alterna ve Chemicals for Bacterial Disease Management in Dry Beans with Addi onal Products

– Robert M. Harveson, Extension Plant Pathologist, Panhandle REC, Sco sbluff

Four major bacterial diseases routinely affect Nebraska dry bean crops, including common blight, halo blight, and brown spot, and wilt. We have been fighting this group of diseases since dry bean production was begun in Nebraska in the 1920s. Unfortunately we do not currently have varieties with resistance to all pathogens, so alternative methods for management need to be explored until new resistant varieties are available

Over the last three years, we have tested newly available products and compared their performance to copper-containing products for managing bacterial diseases in beans. Two specific chemicals have shown great prom-ise for helping us with these diseases, including Sanidate and ecoAgra 300. This suggests that we have some unique chemical products that may provide added protection for beans in Nebraska while we are simultane-ously working with Carlos Urea toward developing new varieties with better tolerance for the various bacterial diseases.

I published a summary of this work in the Winter Bean Bag Edition 2014, and as a result, was recently con-tacted by the company (BioSafe Systems) that produces and distributes Sanidate (this also indicates that some-one is actually reading our articles in the Bean Bag!!). They have a number of similar products that they want us to evaluate this season. Hopefully by this time next year, we can provide some new information for pro-ducers involving potentially improved products for managing these disease issues in beans. Stay tuned!


Effect of Plant Popula on on Great Northern Varie es

Carlos A. Urrea and Eduardo Valen n Cruzado, Dry Bean Breeder and Dry Bean Technolo‐gist, University of Nebraska‐ PREC; Dave Dietrich and Courtney Schuler, Field Specialist and

Business Development Manager, Stateline Producers Coopera ve

In 2014, we conducted a non‐replicated great northern variety trial in Morrill, NE at the Clyncke Farms to ex-plore the impact of plant popula on on yield. This study included 4 great northern cul vars, 2 with prostrate plant architecture (Beryl-R and Marquis) and 2 with semi-upright architecture (Coyne and 6107). Each 0.125-acre plot consisted of 6-rows spaced 30 inches apart. Each cul var was planted at each of 4 target plant den-si es (45,738, 81,312, 101,640, and 121,698 plants/acre). Actual popula ons were 50,239, 76,666, 101,132, and 116,015 plants/acre. In general, yields were reduced 18.8% (708 lbs/acre) when plant popula on in-creased from 101,640 to 121,698 plants/acre. This decline in yield was greatest in 6107 (24.7%) followed by Marquis (20.1%), Beryl-R (15.5%) and Coyne (14.0%).

This study needs to be repeated in a replicated trial with different plant popula ons and row spacings (22 inches, 15 inches, and 10 inches).

Agronomics

Cur s Clyncke / Clyncke Farms – Great Northern Plant Popula on Study

Planted June 4, 2014

Field was corn in 2013, stalks not pastured

Field was disked and strip- lled before plan ng.

Pre-emergent – Eptam / Sonalan


“Variety” continued from page 6

Our cover photo was taken by Kinsey Senkel. Kinsey works for one of our sponsors/advertisers and she recently asked me if I might use one of her photos on our cover. When I saw that tiny shoot pushing up through the dry, cracked soil, I knew it was a perfect cover for our spring edition. I asked Kinsey to tell me a little bit about how she got into photography. She wrote: “Wild at Heart Photog-raphy has been in the making for years. The name, the pho-tos, the website, the photo shoots. When I got married last January, my husband encouraged me to do something with this passion and it expanded to be way more than just pho-tos. He began making outstanding horseshoe art and we started to go to farmer's markets and craft shows to see if they were a good outlet for our products. We enjoyed the farmer's markets, meeting people and enjoying the days, however, we found that the craft shows were a better fit for us. We worked really hard this past summer and fall which has led us to take a nice break over the winter. I blog along with my photography because I enjoy sharing the blessings in my life with others, including my family who is scattered all over the country. I hope to inspire you as I share the things that our good Lord has wonderfully and beautifully made!” If you would like to see one of your photos on our cover, please send it to me at [email protected]!

Our Cover Photo

Crop Water App—Free The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension Crop Water App was developed at the request of Nebraska Agricultural Water Management network (NAWMN) participants. This app provides an easy way to estimate soil water status based on Watermark sensors. Users have the option to input readings for sensors installed at depths of 1, 2, 3, and 4 feet. With these sensor readings, the CropWater App will estimate the amount of water used from the soil profile, as well as what is still available. You can view historic sensor readings and graphs and can also pin your GPS location for the fields. A new feature is the last irrigation calculator which allows users to input crop growth stage and sensor values and will help determine how much irrigation or rainfall is needed. iPhone or iPad: http://go.unl.edu/aiz Android: http://go.unl.edu/hkg On-line web version: http://hprcc-agron0.unl.edu/soywater/wcalculator.php YouTube—Using the CropWater App: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EhToqgbG1kY&feature=youtu.be

University of Nebraska Water Apps

Irrigate Cost App—$3.99 This UNL Extension Agriculture Irrigation Costs App computes the annualized costs of owning and operating an irriga-tion system; a number of management decisions are based on these annualized costs. Before developing land for irriga-tion the first decision should be to determine whether the irrigation system will be economically feasible. In other words, will the net income from increased yields achieved by irrigation development exceed the added costs of owning and operating the system over its expected life? The IrrigateCost app models center pivot and gated pipe irrigation sys-tems and the most commonly used energy sources. The app is also useful for determining a fair lease agreement when using a pivot to water a neighbor’s field. iPhone or iPad: http://go.unl.edu/dias Android: http://go.unl.edu/i9sc On-line web version: http://lancaster.unl.edu/ag/crops/irrigate.shtml YouTube—Using the CropWater App: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uw773p8jUK8&feature=youtu.be

Irrigate Pump—$3.99 The Irrigation Pumping Plant Efficiency Calculator developed by UNL Extension calculates pumping plant’s efficiency powered by diesel, electricity, gasoline, natural gas, or propane. It also can estimate potential savings of system up-grades or adjustments. This app is based upon the Nebraska Pumping Plant Performance Criteria (NPPPC), a standard used by irrigation design engineers worldwide Defining the original criteria involved manufacturers, Nebraska Tractor Test data, and field evaluations of pumping installations. iPhone or iPad: http://go.unl.edu/g2qa Android: http://go.unl.edu/8mg2 On-line web version: http//lancaster.unl.edu/ag/crops/irrigate.shtml YouTube—Using the CropWater App: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yawtfMZ_s3s&feature=youtu.be YouTube—Using the CropWater App: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yawtfMZ_s3s&feature=youtu.be

Water Meter Calc—$3.99 The NL Extension Water Meter Calculator App will help you calculate the number of inches of irrigation water applied over a given time and can apply it to your yearly and multi-year allocation caps. The app will calculate the amount of water applied to each respective field over the given time period. iPhone or iPad: http://go.unl.edu/jt4q Android: http://go.unl.edu/a8sb On-line web version: http://cropwatch.unl.edu/irrigationmetercalculator YouTube—Using the CropWater App: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ygIXBQoE5ZU&feature=youtu.be


LEGISLATIVE UPDATE Dry Bean Check-Off Increase LB242


On February 3, 2015, LB242 was presented to the Legisla ve Agricultural Commi ee by Senator John S nner. Dean Keener, President, and David Howell, District 1 Representa ve, tes fied for the Nebraska Dry Bean Growers Associa‐

on. Others who tes fied in favor of the increase were Cindi Allen, NDBC District IV Grower Representa ve and a grower from Ogallala; Kenny Rhodes, former President of the NDBC; and Senator Dan Hughes, a Grant area bean grower. Wri en tes mony was submi ed by Kevin Kelley of Kelley Bean and by Terry Terrell from Hay Springs, a founding member of the Nebraska Dry Bean Growers Associa on. The bill advanced to General File with amendment changing percentage of lobbying fund from 25% to 15% and limi ng lobbying to support of the underlying objec‐

ves. of the program rela ng to market development, educa on, and research. Here is the tes mony offered by Dean, David, and Cindy, the Commi ee Statement, and the amended bill dra .

KEENER: Good afternoon senators my name is Dean Keener. I am a dry bean producer from Mitchell, Nebraska. I am currently serving as chairman of the Nebraska Dry Bean Growers Association which originated in 1987. Currently we represent roughly 500 growers throughout the state of Nebraska. We are here today to testify in favor of LB242 the pro-posed increase in check off because we see the value of what our check off has done in past. Currently the Nebraska Dry Bean Commission which is governor appointed has done an excellent job in investing the precious check off dollars. They are efficiently applying check off dollars to areas of research, education, and promotion of dry edible beans on a national and international basis. As we all know the buying power of the dollar over the course of the last 10 years has eroded to where you can't buy to-day what you could buy 10 years ago for the same dollars. So we have a need and a reason to increase the check off. Our objective is to keep the dry bean industry alive and well for not only this generation of farmers but for the next. The fu-ture of our industry looks bright. Dry beans are an affordable, healthy gluten-free protein, high in fiber product available for the health conscience consumer. The 2014 crop year on our farm was one of the best crops we have ever had. My share of the check off was two dollars an acre at the current $.10 cents per hundred rate of which two thirds was paid by our farm and one third paid by the pro-cessor. With the proposed increase of check off my share would only raise it by one dollar an acre up to three dollars an acre investment. As you can see it's a very affordable yet very valuable dollars per acre spent to improve our industry. Our growers association was unanimous in voting for increasing check off because we all see the value. All of the pro-cessors that we have contacted also were unanimous in not opposing the increase. We have communicated to our grow-ers through our publication [The Bean Bag] over the course of the past year and a half, also in August at our annual field day tours, held at the panhandle research center we talked and discussed with all of the growers and other attendees about increasing the check off and found no opposition everyone poled and visited with saw the need for the increase. In January 2014 and also again in 2015 we met with Growers and industry reps at our annual Bean Day again there has been no opposition and everyone sees the value of the check off dollars being spent wisely. When Dr. Carlos Urrea, Dry Bean Breeder arrived at University of Nebraska, Panhandle Research and Extension Center in 2005, Western Nebraska was in the middle of its worst drought in decades. Dr. Urrea is working to improve different market classes: great northern, pinto, light red kidney, black, small red and cranberry beans. The dry bean breeding pro-gram is focused on development of high yielding, disease, heat and drought resistant cultivars with upright architecture. Breeding lines are tested and selected in different environments and evaluated for disease resistance under natural pres-sures in grower’s fields and in the green house. Dr. Urrea uses marker assisted selections, there are no GMO dry beans currently in the United States. The University of Nebraska dry bean breeding program has been collaborating with Colo-rado, North Dakota and Michigan through the Mid-West Regional Performance nursery, and recently with Idaho, Wash-ington and Colorado through the Western Regional Breeding trials (WRBT), and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) on drought studies.

“Legislative Update” continued on page 15

On January 27, 2015 West-ern Nebraska Community College nursing students became educators during a health fair held at Regional West Medical Center.

Nursing students paired up to present an interactive demonstration how diabetes can affect different parts of the body.

Displays during this event included the damaging ef-fects diabetes can have on the kidneys, liver, circula-tion, feet, vision and heart.

Over 100 interested partici-pants took part in the two hour health fair. Ronda Kin-

sey, nursing instructor at WNCC, commented on diabetes, “Unless we can turn this around, by 2025 one in three people are going to be diagnosed with diabetes.” Kinsey went on to say, “With diabetes, there’s also heart disease, renal failure and other complications.”

Marcia Bauer, RD, CDE, LMNT, Diabetes Educator at Regional West Medical Cen-ter Diabetes Center asked par-ticipants to guess which meal would be the most likely to help a diabetic maintain a healthy blood glucose level.

In the photo above the plate to

Western Community College Collage nursing students become diabetes educators at health fair

Nebraska Dry Bean Commission recognizes

During Bean Day 2015, present and past members of the Nebraska Dry Bean Commission took the opportunity to honor Dr. Bob Wilson and his career of nearly four decades as a weed scientist at the Panhandle Research and Exten-sion Center in Scottsbluff, Nebraska and his many contributions to the Ne-braska dry bean industry. Improving

weed control in dry edibles has been one of his many focuses during his career.

When Wilson started he remembers there was one herbicide labeled for dry edible beans and farmers plowed and incorporated herbicides

before planting. Now there are more available chemical options and a more integrated approach to weed control in dry edible beans.

NDBC members wish Dr. Wilson “all the best” in his retirement.

Special points of interest:

Commission openings

announced

Commission Re-

search projects funded for FY 15-16

Nebraska dry bean

industry representa-tives visit with US Representatives in Washington, DC

The plate on the far left featured a serving of dry beans.

The Nebraska Dry Bean Commission provided healthy dry bean recipes and “Beans for Health” bags.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Ne-braska Dry Bean Growers Association for coordinating another very informative Bean Day.

In early December, I had the opportunity to participate on a trade mission sponsored by the US Dry Bean Council to the Central American countries of Guatema-la, Nicaragua and Costa Rica. During this trade mis-sion we visited processing plants, canners and saw some small grower fields.

The dry bean industry in Central American is very dif-ferent from the US dry bean industry. Most of the dry beans grown in Central American are hand sorted by women however; we did see one family owned opera-tion which used an electric eye. Many of the dry beans are still harvested by hand since grower fields are only about two acres in size. A full report of this trade mis-sion will appear in an upcoming edition of the Bean Bag.

I just returned from attending the Mexico Bean Con-gress, where the US Dry Bean Council’s International Promotions Committee met to participate in stage I of the strategic planning for the international programs for 2015-2016. I also will be participating in Stage II of the strategic planning session which will be held in April in conjunction with the CICIL’s 2015 World Pulse Convention to be held in Las Vegas, NV.

I would encourage any dry bean grower interested in learning about opportunities for international promotion of Nebraska’s dry beans, to get involved with the Ne-braska Dry Bean Commission and participate on trade missions.

Chairman’s Comments

Nebraska Dry Bean Commission 4502 Avenue I

Scottsbluff, Nebraska 69361 Phone: 308-632-1258

Fax: 308-632-1371

Grower Representatives District I

Steve Benzel, Alliance……………..……………....762-8852

District II Wes Ulrich, Mitchell………..……………………..641-2772

District III Vacant

District IV Cindi Allen, Ogallala……………...…………..…...284-4980

At Large Districts I & II Rodney Loose, Mitchell……………………………....631-3281

At Large Districts III & IV Vacant

Processor Representatives

Brian Kaman Kelley Bean Co., Scottsbluff…………..………......635-2338

Nolan Berry New Alliance Bean and Grain, Gering....................436-5849

Courtney Schuler Stateline Bean, Gering,….………………….………..436-2186

Ex-Officio Dr. Gary Hergert ……….……………………....632-1254

Interim Director, UNL Panhandle Research & Extension Center

Office Lynn Reuter, Administrative Assistant………….....632-1258

The NDBC looks for opportunities

to increase the consumption of dry

beans, educate the consumer

about the health benefits of beans,

and continue to fund research that

aligns with the goals of the Com-

mission.

Members of the Nebraska dry bean industry attended the Winter USDBC Meeting in Washington, DC, greatly appreciate the willingness of our representatives and their staff to meet with us to dis-cuss our policy positions for the upcoming year. Senator Fischer invited our group to the reception room outside the floor of the Senate so that she could meet with us between votes. Much of our discussion focused on the

importance of international trade. The Trans-Pacific Part-nership, Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership and Trade Promotion Authority are three policies that our industry supports, as long as they stay true to their purpose. Trade relations/barriers with Cuba were also of interest to the rep-resentatives and their staff. A topic of immediate concern was improving domestic trans-portation issues.

Nebraska dry bean industry delegation visits US Senator Deb Fischer

Nebraska Dry Bean Commission announces openings

enne, and Deuel) and District IV, (which include district III counties in the Panhandle and all counties east of the Panhandle where dry beans are pro-duced.) This position is a Commission

appointment. Currently the At-Large position is vacant.

Candidates include those individuals who are citizens of Nebraska, are at least 21 years of age, have been active-ly engaged in growing dry beans in Nebraska for a period of three years, derive a substantial portion of their in-come from growing dry edible beans and are a resident of represented dis-trict. A grower candidacy petition must carry the signatures of at lease 10 dry beans growers from the representa-tive’s district.

Qualifications for Processor representa-tive include: dry bean processors who have been in business in Nebraska for at least three years and are citizens of Nebraska. It is Commission policy that

only one person from a compa-ny or grower cooperative may be on the Commission at any one time.

Applications may be obtained from the NDBC office by call-ing (308) 632-1258 during reg-ular business hours. Applica-tion deadline is April 7, 2015.

The Nebraska Dry Bean Commis-sion is looking for individuals interested in serving as grower representatives in District II (Scotts Bluff County) the current representative is Wes Ullrich ,who is eligible to reapply and District III (the counties of Morrill, Banner, Kimball, Chey-enne, Garden and Deuel) this po-sition is currently vacant. Brian Kaman, Kelley Bean Company, is one of three process representa-tives who is completing his first term on the NDBC and is eligible for reappointment. These posi-tions are all Governor appointed and the term will be from May 30, 2015 until May 30, 2015.

The Commission also has an opening for an At-Large Grower Representative position for Dis-tricts III, (the counties of Morrill, Banner, Kimball, Garden, Chey-

Are you interested in

becoming a leader in

Nebraska’s dry bean

industry?

Learn how you can apply for positions on the Nebraska Dry Bean Commission.

February 2015

Nebraska dry bean representatives front row: Cindi Al-len, Sen. Deb Fischer Courtney Schuler, back row Judd Keller, Mark Thompson, and Wes Ullrich.

By Courtney Schuler

Nebraska Dry Bean Commission approves funding for FY 15-16 Research projects

During the January 12, 2015 meeting, the Nebraska Dry Bean Commission members approved funding for the following research project for FY 15-16.

Panhandle Research and Extension Center Core Project $30,000.00

Project 1 Title: Dry Bean Harvest Quality Improvement

Project 1: Principal Investigators: Jeff Bradshaw, Bob Wilson, Bob Harveson Objectives: 1) Evaluate the impact of early season Raptor/Basagran applications on dry bean maturity 2) Evaluate the impact of an early-season at-plant fungicide application on “plant heath” and 3) Evaluate the impact of delayed dry bean maturity on seed quality. Project 2: Title: Developing Season Long Deficit Irrigation Strategies for Dry Bean Production Principal Investigators: David Reichert, Jim Schild, Robert Harveson (new irrigation specialist TBD) Objectives: Evaluate the production of dry beans when irrigation water supplies are limited, and deficit irrigation is im-posed, whether it be long term, short term, or unexpected. Project 3: Title: Iron content of Nebraska elite dry bean germplasm Principal Investigators: Carlos Urrea, Jim Schild Objective: Screen advanced and intermediate dry bean lines for iron and zinc content in seeds. Recommend one or two lines with high iron and zinc content to be used as parental lines in the crossing block. Project 4: Title: Fertilizer and soil management for dry bean production. Principal Investigator: Gary Hergert Objective: To determine the response of dry beans to FeEDDHA and Fe-HBED on a calcareous soil for the two major market classes of dry beans grown in Nebraska Panhandle. Project 5: Title: Further studies evaluating new alternative chemicals for managing bacterial diseases in dry beans Principal Investigator: Robert Harveson Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of several new and unique, commercially available chemical products with and with-out a second application of copper. The performance of these chemicals in the field will also be compared to a series of newly developed lab assays to establish effectiveness of the chemicals prior to field testing. Morphologic and molecular diversity of root rot pathogens of dry beans $5,000.00 Principal Investigator: Anthony Adesemoye, Robert Harveson Evaluation of dry bean cultivars for performance in Western Nebraska $9,500.00 Principal Investigator: Jim Schild Objective: Evaluate new bean cultivars, bean breeding lines, and standard cultivars from the major market classes on per-formance in Nebraska for yield potential, maturity, disease reaction, and other adaptive traits. Monitoring bean pathogen variation and screening breeding lines with relevant pathogen races/isolates for multi-ple disease resistance. $8,310.00 Principal Investigator: James Steadman, Carlos Urrea, Robert Harveson Objective: Monitor races of the bean rust pathogen and isolates of scleratinia sclerotioum in bean fields in Nebraska and to screen breeding lines and recombinant inbred lines used to develop molecular markers for disease resistance genes in collaboration with Dr. Carlos Urrea. Breeding great northern, pinto, small red, black, light red kidney, cranberry and yellow beans for multiple disease resistance with high performance in western Nebraska $62,000.00 Principal Investigator: Carlos Urrea Ability of pinto beans to prevent high cholesterol induced by a high fat diet $14,933.00 Principal Investigator: Vicki Schlegel, University of Nebraska Department of Food Science and Technology Objective: To determine the ability pinto beans grown in Western Nebraska to remediate cholesterol caused by a high fat diet using an animal model. Total of Research Contracts $129,743.00


“Legislative” continued from page 14

HOWELL: Good afternoon Senator Johnson and members of the Agriculture Committee, thank you for allowing me the opportunity to testify before you today in support of LB 242. My name is David Howell and I farm with my family in Sioux County. We grow approximately 500 acres of beans, 500 acres of wheat, 1200 acres of corn, and 500 acres of alfalfa. We also custom plant, harvest and chop silage, and custom feed cattle. I currently serve on the Nebraska Dry Bean Growers Association. I also served on the Nebraska Dry Bean Commission from 2000 to 2006. The bean check-off rate is currently 10 cents per cwt with 2/3 paid by the grower and 1/3 paid by the processor. It was last increased from 7.5 cents to 10 cents in 2004. My family’s operation pays approximately $2 per acre in check-off fees. The proposed increase would raise this cost to approximately $3 per acre on gross revenue of approximately $960 per acre. The check-off funds are currently used for promotion, research, education, and administration. The Nebraska Dry Bean Commission does local, national, and international promotion. The commission has also done joint promotions with the Nebraska Pork Board as well as national and international promotion with the US Dry Bean Council. This has allowed Nebraska to leverage our dollars to reach beyond the state boundaries. By accessing FMD (Foreign Market Develop-ment) funds and Food Aid funds, this sponsors trade, reverse trade, and foreign aid missions though out the world. Nebraska also conducts important bean research at the Panhandle Research and Extension (PREC) station in Scottsbluff, NE, which extends to the North Platte and Lincoln campuses. At PREC, Dr. Carlos Urea, Dr. Jeff Bradshaw, Dr. Rob-ert Wilson, Dr. Gary Hergert, Dr. Bob Halverson, Dr. Jim Schild, Dr. John Smith (retired), and Dr. Dean Yonts (deceased), and from Lincoln, Dr. Jim Steadman and Dr. Sally McKensie, have utilized funds provided by the bean check-off. Dr. Carlos Urea conducts a bean breeding program and the others have conducted a broad range of basic research encompassing pests, impacts to yields, weed control, water usage, fertilizer, and disease concerns. This re-search has been critical to the production practices, water savings, yield, and quality increases the Nebraska growers have enjoyed over the past several years. These researches have leveraged check-off dollars with grant funds from many local and national sources to provide a very beneficial service to the growers. The Nebraska Dry Bean Commission and the Nebraska Dry Bean Growers Association also use check-off dollars to provide the publication, “The Bean Bag”. This publication is the main communication provided to the growers in the state and it disseminates important information to the growers, landlords, and processors. In addition, the Panhandle Research and Extension Center and the Growers Association conduct a field day in August and an annual meeting in January to present information to all stakeholders. Inflation has eroded the purchasing power of the check-off dollars currently received. All these important programs in promotion, research, and education risk additional budget cuts unless we increase our check-off rate. The Bean Grow-ers Association started the process of raising the check-off over a year and a half ago. We believe in the power of our check-off and how it has positively impacted our industry, and how it has been spent and leveraged to do more than we could individually. We ask the legislature to consider our request for the authority to increase the bean check-off thru LB 242. Thank you for your time.

Dr. Urrea is a member of an elite group of scientist across the United States who met in Scottsbluff during August 2014. At their meeting, the W2150 working group, scientists laid out their objectives for the next 5 years which include “improving yields by boosting resistance to plant stresses such as disease, drought and heat; promoting human health and well-being through better genomics; and implementing sustainable and profitable ag systems that conserve natural resources and protest the environment.” I cannot more effectively state the vision of the Nebraska dry bean industry. Senators, you can be proud that the check off established is doing a great job of investing. The proposed increase will help to make sure for generations to come the future of the dry bean industry will remain strong. I would like to encour-age you to look favorably upon LB 242. Thank you for the opportunity to testify before the Agriculture Committee today. With that I will answer any questions you may have.

See “Legislative” on page 16



ALLEN: Chairperson Senator Johnson and members of the committee, my name is Cindi Allen.

My husband and I are agricultural producers in Ogallala, Nebraska and grow dry edible beans as a major crop. In addi-tion to production agriculture, I am currently serving my second term on the Nebraska Dry Bean Commission (NDBC) representing District IV, which covers part of the panhandle and the eastern part of the state. Today, I am representing myself as a dry bean grower, as well as, addressing how ‘check off’ dollars relate to the Nebraska Dry Bean Commis-sion.

Nebraska Dry Bean Commission is the voice of the growers and processors with the highest priority given to increasing the consumption of dry beans. We recognize that dry beans, as a specialty crop, are different than other commodity crops in production agriculture. Consequently, dry beans are not traded by the Commodity Boards of Trade. Therefore, dry bean production and consumption is purely based upon supply and demand. Check off dollars collectively provides farmers an avenue to increase the consumption of dry beans in the market.

Dry bean consumption is dependent upon export markets. For this reason, Nebraska check off dollars fund membership within the US Dry Bean Council (USDBC). Through USDBC, Nebraska has preserved markets in South America, Eu-rope, Asia, and Africa. As well as, maintained a humanitarian presence in underdeveloped and developing countries through food aid programs. Still, Nebraska has relinquished their majority vote within USDBC due to a lack of funds. The reduction of dues and loss of a majority vote has minimized Nebraska’s influence on a national level and polarized the USDBC board. Similarly, Nebraska has been forced to reduce involvement in Nebraska Trade opportunities

Equally to keep the dry bean industry profitable it is imperative to sustain a resilient voice on a federal level. Recently, a Nebraska delegation of growers and processors traveled to Washington D.C. to voice support for programs such as:

1. The continuation of ½ cup of beans (in Healthy Hunger Free Kids (HHFKA) and Child Nutrition Re-authorization) in school meals.

2. Authorize canned beans in all state WIC packages and expand the definition of canned beans to include meat and sauces (i.e. baked beans).

3. Trade Expansion (TPP) and Trade Promotion Authority (TPA)

4. Research Funding

5. Market Access Program (MAP) and Foreign Market Development (FMD) appropriations.

6. Support for the United Nations International Year of the Pulse (Beans, Peas, and Lentils) 2016, a worldwide public health initiative comprised of four themes: Creating Awareness, Health and Nutrition, Food Security, Market Access and Sustainability.

Nevertheless, Nebraska’s input on a national level is unsustainable without funds.

Simultaneously, check off dollars fund research and education. Dry bean research for growers such as, developing new breeding lines, water conservation practices, methods of increasing yields, chemical and fertilizer applications…to name a few. The aforementioned is a short list citing the benefits of check off dollars returned to the farmer. Not to mention the benefits of education urging consumers to incorporate beans into daily diets as a super food that prevents heart dis-ease, promotes brain growth, and combats diabetes. Consequently, both research and education contribute to the ad-vancement of our industry and in turn overall human condition. Even so, lack of funding has resulted in research dimin-ished and left unfinished.

To sum it up, it is imperative that Nebraska maintains a competitive advantage in the marketplace. Increasing the con-sumption of dry beans is one way in which we influence price, which benefits the local farmer. Likewise, research and education benefits the consumer. However, without proper funds the potential is limited. Therefore, as a farmer, I urge your support of LB 242.

Thank you for the opportunity to testify before you today. I would be happy to answer any questions. See “Legislative” on page 17


This is the revised part of LB242. Other changes may take place a er debates on the floor of the legislature, includ‐

ing those amendments men oned on page 18 dealing with changing percentage of lobbying fund from 25% to 15%

and limi ng lobbying to support of the underlying objec ves. of the program rela ng to market development, edu‐

ca on, and research.



Toss 1 head Romaine lettuce, chopped, 1-1/2 cups black beans, 1 cup corn, 1/4-cup chopped red pepper, 1/4-cup chopped yel-low pepper, 1 chopped avocado, and one spring onion in a large bowl. Into blender place 1 cup unsweetened almond milk, 1/2-cup cilantro, 1/2 of avocado (chopped), 1 table spoon lime juice, 1 clove garlic (minced), 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon cumin. Process until smooth, scraping down sides. Drizzle over vegetables.

Black Bean Salad with Creamy Avocado/Cilantro Dressing

Serve as a salad or to fill a wrap!











Committee Statement: LB242 Agriculture Committee

Page 2

Legislative: continued from page 20

Three-Bean Chili with Spring Pesto 1 tablespoon plus ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil 1 small yellow onion chopped 2 carrots, diced 1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes, including liquid Kosher salt and black pepper 1 15.5 ounce canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained 1 15.5-ounce can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained 1 15.5-ounce can kidney beans, rinsed and drained 1 clove garlic, finely chopped 3 tablespoons pine nuts, chopped 1 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped Crusty bread (optional) Directions Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and carrots and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes and their liquid, 2 cups water, 1-1/2 teaspoons salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper; bring to a boil. Add the three cans of beans and cook until heated through, about 3 minutes. Combine the garlic, pine nuts, parsley, remaining 1/4 cup oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper in a small bowl. Divide the chili amount individual bowls and top with pesto. Serve with crusty bread, if desired.

“Iron” continued from page 5


was some common blight but li le other disease pressure. Sta s cal analysis showed significant Fe treat-ment effects for two varie es and not the other two (Table 2). Yields of Pintos and Northerns were similar. Sta s cal analysis comparing the check versus the yields of the 1 and 2 pound SoyGreen treatments showed significant increases for Orion, Montrose and Poncho. Yield increases ranged from 200 to 470 pounds per acre which would be economical at current dry bean prices even for the 2 pound rate. SoyGreen cost is $10 per pound of product.

Table 2. Fe treatment effects on dry bean yield in 2011.

*Values followed by a different le er are significantly different at the 0.15 level of probability using Duncan’s Mul ple Range Test.

In 2012 IDC was not severe on dry beans in this area. The plot site selected was high pH, calcareous and with a marginal DTPA-Fe level (Table 1). The plots were not scored for chlorosis because weekly visual observa-ons did not show enough difference to warrant recording values. The dry weather and lack of hail caused

li le disease pressure. Seed yields did not show any effect from Fe treatments (Table 3). Pintos yielded 400 to 600 pounds per acre more than Great Northern beans which may be related to heat tolerance. Great Northern yields in 2012 were 400 pounds lower than 2011 whereas Pinto yields were 150 pounds higher.



Treatment Variety/(Market Class)

Marquis (GN) Orion (GN) Poncho (P) Montrose (P)

--------------------Pounds per acre--------------------

Check 2832a 3175b 2893b 2784b_

0.5# SG 2962a 3231b 3163a 2807b

1# SG 2838a 3412a 3397a 2980a_

2# SG 2851a 3407a 3339a 2901ab



--------------------Pounds per acre--------------------

Check 2452a 2689a 3255a 3190a

0.5# SG 2457a 2688a 3151a 3142a

1# SG 2441a 2698a 3401a 2956a

2# SG 2540a 2648a 3194a 3219a



--------------------Pounds per acre--------------------

Check 2832a 3175b 2893b 2784b_

0.5# SG 2962a 3231b 3163a 2807b

1# SG 2838a 3412a 3397a 2980a_

2# SG 2851a 3407a 3339a 2901ab



2013 started off as a more typical weather pa ern. Final plant popula ons were around 55K. IDC was appar-ent on the two Great Northern varie es in late June and early July. There was less IDC on pintos. Visually we could see the difference Fe treatments were making. We felt response should be similar to 2011, but a late hail storm in September right before cu ng shelled out over 50% of the beans. Heavy rains delayed cu ng and when we tried to undercut, we shelled most of the beans so the plots were not harvested.

2014 started off wet and cool. Below normal temperatures during June with adequate rainfall caused signifi-cant IDC on the plot area and in many fields in the area. Final plant popula ons were around 55K. The plot area was under a linear more at our Mitchell sta on. IDC was very apparent on the two Great Northern vari-e es in late June and early July with some IDC showing on Pinto varie es. There were visual Fe treatment differences in early July and we felt we should have good response. The 2014 yields (Table 4) showed that 1 or 2 pound of SoyGreen significantly increased yields for three of the four varie es.



Conclusions:

During the 4 years of this study, IDC severity varied from none to severe. The plot sites selected were high pH, calcareous and had marginal DTPA-Fe levels (Table 1). The plots were not scored for chlorosis some years because weekly visual observa ons did not show enough difference to warrant recording values. There was good response to SoyGreen in 2011 and 2014. We feel we would have had some response in 2013 when the plot was lost to hail right at harvest. There was no response during the very hot, dry year of 2012 and there was li le if any IDC on dry beans in the area.

Table 5 summarizes the poten al response based on this research by variety. Varietal response varied be-tween years but the average provides some insight. We felt we might have an average of 200 pounds of re-sponse in 2013. The other responses are the average increase between the check and an average of the 1 and 2 pound Fe rates. In general, increases range from about 125 pounds per acre to over 300. That level of increase would be more than sufficient to provide an economic benefit to growers.



--------------------Pounds per acre--------------------

Check 2685b 2364b 2855c 2595b

0.5# SG 2820b 2619a 3010b 2651b

1# SG 2774b 2580a 3232a 2972a

2# SG 2967a 2565a 3096b 3082a



--------------------Pounds per acre--------------------

Check 2685b 2364b 2855c 2595b

0.5# SG 2820b 2619a 3010b 2651b

1# SG 2774b 2580a 3232a 2972a

2# SG 2967a 2565a 3096b 3082a



Table 5. Fe treatment response of check vs. 1 and 2 pounds of SoyGreen.

Fer lizing with iron is not as simple as fer lizing with nitrogen. In many cases, a whole-field applica on may not be necessary. Chlorosis severity mapping in more severe IDC years (like 2014) can be used as base maps to drive site-specific applica on of Fe. Our plot areas were selected based on field observa on and Google Earth maps that, if taken at the right me of year, show IDC areas. This approach should be a part of a precision ag fer lizer management package for future dry bean produc on in the High Plains area but it will require promo-on and possibly field demonstra on to convince farmers of its value.

Acknowledgements:

We would like to thank West Central Inc. for suppor ng this research as well as the Nebraska Dry Bean Com-mission.



--------------------Pounds per acre--------------------

2011 0 235 475 155

2012 0 0 0 0

2013 200 200 200 200

2014 185 210 309 432

Response

Average 128 215 328 262



1 tablespoon olive oil 1 small onion roughly chopped 3 garlic cloves, chopped 3 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped Several dashes fresh black pepper

Preheat a saucepan over medium-high heat. Sauté the onion and garlic in the oil for about 5 minutes. Add the thyme and black pepper (I like a lot of black pepper in this) and cook for about 3 minutes more. While that is cooking, stir the flour into the broth until dissolved. If you have an immersion blender, then add the beans, broth mixture, and soy sauce to the saucepan. Blend immediately and lower the heat to medium. Stir the gravy often for about 10 minutes while it thickens. If you are using a regular blender, add the beans, broth mixture, and soy sauce to the blender and blend until smooth. Transfer the onion and the other stuff from the pan to the blender. Puree again until no big chunks of onion are left. Add back to the pot and stir often over medium heat to thicken. Once the gravy thickens, reduce the heat to low. Now you can decide exactly how thick you want it by adding splashes of water, anywhere from 1/4 to 1/2 cup. Cook for about 20 more minutes to let the flavors deepen, stirring occasionally. Add water as necessary and taste for salt. Keep gravy covered and warm until ready to serve.

1-1/2 cups vegetable broth 1/3-cup flour 15-ounce can navy beans, rinsed and drained 3 tablespoons soy sauce 1/4 to 1/2-cup water Salt to taste, if needed

Navy Bean (No-Guilt) Gravy Most people seem to have a par cular way they like their gravy. This one is of the thick, southern‐style kinds that you serve on the side and is great for dipping your biscuit or potatoes in. Since everything is pureed, don't be too par cular about how you chop the ingredients up. An immersion blender comes in really handy here, but if you don't have one, a blender is just fine, too.

“Spilling” continued from page 3

our Sponsors Bean day wouldn’t work. A BIG THANK YOU to all our vendors who were pleased to interact with all who attended. New Alliance Bean sponsored our Lunch this year and we all tip our hats and say THANK YOU!!

Feb 3rd David Howell, Cindi Allen, Ken Rhoades and I met in Lincoln. One of our first stops was with the Nebraska Dept. of Ag. We met with Bob Storant and Bobbie Kriz-Wickham who discussed LB 242 and how the process works from their administrative view. It’s great to meet the people who do an excellent job representing us in ag. We then went over to the capital where we met with Bob Storant {Sen. John Stinners assistant} and Sen. John Stinner. We are blessed to have a couple of straight shooters like them serving us in Lincoln. Also met with Rick Lenard {Sen. Johnson’s assis-tant} Sen. Jerry Johnson chairs the AG committee. Sen. Johnson stopped by for introductions and a handshake. Also on the way to the hearing we had a conversation with Jay Rempe {Farm Bureau VP of government affairs} addressing funding from check off dollars for lobbying; they support and testified for LB242. After the hearing our group met with him again and put the language in an amendment to the bill that they agreed to. You can read that in the attached expla-nation of amendments {AM 357} in the committee statement LB242. As of this writing the bill is out of committee and waiting to go before the legislature. Also invite you to read through the bill LB242, and our attached written testimonies. A big THANK YOU to David Howell for guiding me through the day, also for Cindi Allen’s expertise. Thank you as well to Kenny Rhoades for making the trip and his testimony as a grower from Big Springs. Thank you to those who sent written testimonies to the ag committee who supported the bill but couldn’t make the trip. It was an eye opening experi-ence for a rookie testifier like me. I wish all of you could be a part of this process because it gives you an appreciation for all those who genuinely care about the dry bean industry and strive to see it succeed for future generations. So there are the spilled beans! Please contact myself or any members of the growers association or Dry Bean Commission with questions or comments, or if you would like to get involved by serving.


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Documents

4502 Avenue I, Scottsbluff, Nebraska 69361 - …beangrower.com/uploads/3/4/3/6/34369283/spring_bean_bag_2015.pdf4502 Avenue I, Scottsbluff, Nebraska 69361 . ... Bob Harveson 631‐5953