June-July 2012

June • July 2012

The official publication of the U.S. Canola Association

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PAIDPERMIT # 433BISMARCK, ND

WINTER CANOLA ACREAGE AND DEMAND GROWING IN U.S.

W I N T E R C A N O L A E D I T I O N

Blackleg’s Potential in Southern Plains

Powerhouse Grower: Bob Schrock

What's New in Winter Canola Research

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ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW GRAIN MARKETING AND ALL OTHER STEWARDSHIP PRACTICES AND PESTICIDE LABEL DIRECTIONS. Details of these practices can be found in the Trait Stewardship Responsibilities Notice to Farmers printed in this publication. Individual results may vary. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. ©2011 Monsanto Company.

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EXECUTIVE EDITORAngela [email protected]

MANAGING EDITORBrittany [email protected]

CONTRIBUTING WRITERSMark Boyles; Ernst Cebert, Ph.D; John Damicone, Ph.D.; Chad Godsey, Ph.D; John Gordley; Ron Sholer; Dale Thorenson; Rufina Ward, Ph.D.

PUBLISHERSBarry [email protected]

John [email protected]

SALES REPRESENTATIVEMary O’[email protected]

GRAPHIC DESIGNERMelissa [email protected]

PUBLISHED BYU.S. Canola Association 600 Pennsylvania, SE, Suite 320Washington, DC 20003tel: 202.969.8113 • fax: 202.969.7036www.uscanola.com

REGIONAL AFFILIATESGreat Lakes Canola Associationwww.agry.purdue.edu/ext/canola

Great Plains Canola Associationwww.greatplainscanola.com

Minnesota Canola Council

features

8Blackleg’s Potential in Southern PlainsResearch Determines Best Management Practices

12Powerhouse Grower: Bob Schrock Crossing State Lines for Canola

16Winter Canola in Double-Cropping SystemAlabama Addresses Local Issues

17Research Program Prospers in Great PlainsCultivar Development, Crop Protection and Technology Remain Priorities

18Newer Canola Kid on BlockPacific Northwest Continues to Quickly Develop

19Maintaining Momentum in Southern Plains Focus on Disease Control and Social Media

U.S. Canola Digest is published four times a year in January/February, March/April, September/October and November/December by the U.S. Canola Association (USCA) and Northern Canola Growers Association (NCGA). Subscription is complementary to all USCA and NCGA members and other qualified members of the U.S. canola industry. Reproduction of contents is forbidden. Copyright 2012. Postmaster: Send address changes to Northern Canola Growers Association, 2718 Gateway Ave., #301, Bismarck, ND 58503.

departments

4 Editors’ Letter 6 USCA Update 7 GPCA News 21 Quick Bytes 22 Canola Cooks

on the cover

Growers are looking forward to increasing winter canola yields and acres this season.

JUNE • JULY 2012VOL. 4, NO. 1

16

08

12

and crop rotation. Researchers presented their findings at the 2012 USCA board meeting in Washington, D.C. Flip to page 16 for winter canola research results on blackleg, breeding for early maturity, evaluation of har-vest aids, management of major insect pests, rotational schemes and more.

Blackleg StudiesBlackleg field research on winter canola has been ongoing since

2009, and the industry has learned a lot about the disease’s potential for yield loss. Researchers from Oklahoma State University and Kansas State University discuss blackleg research findings in the southern Great Plains, including the benefits of fungicide application and how to prevent yield losses. To learn from the researchers, turn to page 8.

Association UpdatesThe Great Plains Canola Association (GPCA) reports the region is

quite excited for this year’s winter canola crop. At a recent Oklahoma State University (OSU) winter field tour, participants visited 14 loca-tions to learn about pest control, variety selection, soil fertility, har-vesting methods and marketing options. Kansas State University also conducted seven field tours for growers to learn about similar issues. Coming up, the GPCA and OSU will host the 8th annual Winter Canola Conference on July 26 in Enid, Okla., with a second conference scheduled for July 31 in Altus, Okla. Read the full update on page 7.

With the current farm bill expiring in just a little more than five months, Congress is finally getting around to marking up the 2012 Farm Bill. Legislative action began April 26 when the Senate Agriculture Committee marked up and reported out the 2012 Farm Bill by a 16-5 vote. In addition, the House Agriculture Committee finished its series of farm bill hearings May 17. Check out the USCA update on page 6 for commentary on the 2012 Farm Bill from USCA Assistant Director Dale Thorenson and opening statements from the Senate Agriculture Committee mark-up by Ranking Member Pat Roberts (R-KS) and the House Agriculture Committee hearings by Chair Frank Lucas (R-OK).

Summer Barbeque TwistEnough with all the “winter” talk. Embrace the dog days of sum-

mer and fire up your grill with a unique twist on the classic summer burger. Check out CanolaInfo’s Black Bean Burger with Avocado-Lime Mayonnaise on page 22. With a f lavorful combination of potatoes, beans, bell pepper, oats, egg whites and cayenne pepper, this healthy treat is sure to please at the next grill-out. Canola oil’s neutral taste and light texture make these distinct flavors pop, offering a much different burger than that standard beef patty!

Finally, keep your eyes peeled for photo ops this growing season. Entries for the U.S. Canola Digest Photo Contest are due Nov. 1 and it’s never too early to start snapping photos! Winning submissions will be determined in early December and published in the January/February 2013 edition of U.S. Canola Digest.

WITH SUNSHINE AND sky-high summertime temperatures, it’s funny to think about planting winter canola. However, the time is near with high hopes for record-breaking yields. And what better way to prepare for the upcoming season than learning from the best experts on winter canola pro-duction? A variety of growers and researchers fill this issue with tips for the growing season.

First, let us introduce Bob Schrock. Deemed a “powerhouse grower” by his peers, this third-generation farmer has been a canola pioneer for several years on his farm that spans the border between Kansas and Oklahoma. He

spoke with us about his journey from not wanting to farm to being a leader in winter canola production. Schrock has worked with growers from both Kansas State University and Oklahoma State University for about nine years, completing farm trials and other canola yield studies. Turn to page 12 to read more about this influential farmer and hear his predictions for the upcoming growing season.

Winter Canola ResearchAdministered by the U.S. Canola Association (USCA), the National

Canola Research Program funds five national regions on a competitive basis for agronomic research related to areas such as breeding, weed control

Angela Dansbyexecutive editor [email protected]

4 U . S . C A N O L A D I G E S T J U N E • J U LY 20 1 2

editors’ letter

managing editor [email protected]

High Hopes for Winter Canola

ALWAYS FOLLOW GRAIN MARKETING AND ALL OTHER STEWARDSHIP PRACTICES AND PESTICIDE LABEL DIRECTIONS. Details of these practices can be found in the Trait Stewardship Responsibilities Notice to Farmers printed in this publication. Individual results may vary. DEKALB and Design® is a registered trademark of Monsanto Technology LLC. ©2012 Monsanto Company.

Your farm works hard. Your choice in winter canola should too. To clean up rye and

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Talk to your local DEKALB® Dealer.

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ALWAYS FOLLOW GRAIN MARKETING AND ALL OTHER STEWARDSHIP PRACTICES AND PESTICIDE LABEL DIRECTIONS. Details of these practices can be found in the Trait Stewardship Responsibilities Notice to Farmers printed in this publication. Individual results may vary. DEKALB and Design® is a registered trademark of Monsanto Technology LLC. ©2012 Monsanto Company.

usca update

Congress Begins Work on 2012 Farm BillDALE THORENSON


usca update

WITH ONLY ABOUT five months to go before the current farm bill expires, legislative action in Congress finally began April 26 when the Senate Agriculture Committee marked up and reported out its version of the 2012 Farm Bill by a 16-5 vote. The bipartisan legisla-tion was developed jointly by Chair Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Ranking Member Pat Roberts (R-KS). Sen. Roberts offered a com-prehensive, overall defense of the bill in his opening statement (see sidebar) that addressed concerns about the legislation, including the move away from payments tied to base acres established in the 1980s. To view the mark-up, go to http://www.ag.senate.gov/templates/watch.cfm?id=2b49a918-5056-a032-5217-f66aa5d8b279.

On May 15, 44 senators wrote a letter to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) urging them “to schedule f loor consideration of the ‘farm

bill’ as soon as possible.” With the apparent strong support for mov-ing the legislation, the full Senate is expected to take up the bill dur-

ing the month of June. If it is successful in passing the legislation, all eyes will turn squarely on the House as they try to pass their version of the 2012 Farm Bill that will then have to be reconciled with the Senate bill.

To that end, the House Agriculture Committee finished its series of hear-ings regarding the 2012 Farm Bill May 17. Chair Frank Lucas (R-OK) offered his views (see page 20) on crafting the bill during a two-day hear-ing (hear or read testimo-nies at http://agriculture.

house.gov/hearings/default.aspx?CID=28) on the Commodity and Crop Insurance Titles. Lucas stated that the farm bill “must work for all regions and all commodities” and predicted that the development of the legislation would be bipartisan in nature. The Committee expects to mark-up their legislation during June as well.

Once the Agriculture Committee finishes its work, the path for-ward will become less clear. The House has been considering legis-lation under “open rules” during the 112th Congress, which means there are no restrictions on the number and nature of amendments that can be offered. There have been indications that the Agriculture Committee was going to request consideration of the farm bill under a “closed rule.” However, upon hearing about the potential request, several members of Congress wrote Speaker John Boehner (R-OH), stating they “adamantly oppose any scenario that would truncate a full and open legislative process on farm bill reauthorization in the House of Representatives.” Also, conservative groups, includ-ing Americans for Tax Reform, Freedom Works and the Heartland Institute, wrote Congress to call for a minimum of $33 billion of cuts to farm programs. These letters confirm concerns that the lower chamber’s seemingly perpetual desire to slash spending could result in an all-out attack on the farm bill should the legislation make it to the floor.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 20 ❱

Senate vs. House Farm Bill ViewsTHE SENATE AND HOUSE are not on the same page regard-ing the Commodity Title. The Senate bill puts in place a revenue program that would protect against shallow losses based upon a crop’s previous five-year Olympic average of revenue. However, it did not include a target price option. The House bill is expected to closely resem-ble the one developed last fall for the Super Committee’s

failed deficit reduc-tion package, which i n c l u d e d o p t i o n s allowing farmers to choose between either a revenue or target price program.

The only certainty is that the current farm bill expires Sept. 30 and Congress will be hard-pressed to reauthorize a replacement bill in such a short time-span.

House

[The farm bill] “must work for all regions and all commodities.”

- House Agriculture Committee Chair Frank Lucas (R-OK)

W W W.U S C A N O L A .CO M U . S . C A N O L A D I G E S T 7

regional news

ANYONE FAMILIAR WITH the story of the fledgling but growing win-ter canola industry in the Great Plains has to be impressed with the progress that has been made in a relatively short time. Increasing canola plantings from close to zero acres less than a decade ago to more than 200,000 in 2011-12 is a remarkable achievement. This is particularly positive after last year’s record-setting drought and decreased yields. At this time, the crop has tremendous potential all across the region. Nothing will generate a positive outlook for next season like a good crop this year.

It’s not easy to start a new industry from scratch. Success has been possi-ble only because of the contributions and commitment from all segments of the industry to make it happen. There is finally recognition that this crop has staying power and can become a regular rotation crop in the Great Plains. For some, it already has. Originally recommended to clean up wheat ground, the economics of canola versus those for wheat make it a competitive crop to grow. The return on investment for winter canola calls for more to take a look.

Canola Industry Continues to Grow in Great PlainsRON SHOLAR

Fields Tours Inspire Growers IT WAS EASY to be excited about this year’s crop poten-tial as growers looked at canola research and demonstra-tion plots during the recent Oklahoma State University (OSU) winter canola field tours. They were conducted at the Oklahoma Oilseed Commission-sponsored field dem-onstrations and OSU variety test sites across the canola growing region. Participants visited 14 locations to learn about pest control, variety selection, soil fertility, harvest-ing methods and marketing options.

Participants were also interested in the grower fields surrounding the test plots. After the disastrous weather conditions of the 2010-11 growing season and the very lim-ited crop that was harvested, it was gratifying for growers to see what this crop can do under more favorable condi-tions. After weathering a dry fall, some well-timed spring rains have resulted in excellent potential for the crop.

Kansas State University also conducted seven field tours in late April and early May for growers to learn about variety selection, production methods, and harvesting and marketing options. Both public and private breeders are generating an array of winter canola varieties that have excellent yield potential and other desirable characteris-tics such as herbicide tolerance. More are on the way.

Upcoming EventsTHE GREAT PLAINS CANOLA ASSOCIATION AND OSU will host the 8th annual Winter Canola Conference July 26 in Enid, Okla. A second conference will be held July 31 in Altus, Okla. Both meet-ings will cover lessons learned from f ield research and grower experi-ences with the 2011-12 crop. These conferences will be valuable to both new and experienced growers who are looking for the latest informa-tion on canola.

RON SCHOLAR IS EXECUTIVE DIREC-TOR OF THE GREAT PLAINS CANOLA ASSOCIATION IN STILLWATER, OKLA.

Photograph Yellow, Win GreenEnter the fourth annual U.S. Canola Digest photo contest for the opportunity to win cash prizes and have YOUR photo published in the magazine! Check out www.uscanola.com for submission details – and make it snappy!The deadline for submission is Nov. 1, 2012.


FIELD RESEARCH ON BLACKLEG has been ongoing since the disease was first dis-covered in Oklahoma in 2009. Blackleg can reduce yields by up to 50 percent, where sus-ceptible varieties are grown and disease pres-sure is severe. Yield loss results from stem can-kers (Figure 1) produced by the fungus near the soil line. Cankers reduce grain fill and may completely girdle stems prior to harvest.

Early research on blackleg in Oklahoma focused on characterizing the strain of the fungus first found in the state. Once it was realized that the aggressive strain was pres-ent, field research was initiated to determine the damage potential of the disease and to evaluate control strategies. The research was initiated with the 2010-11 crop and the trials have been repeated for the 2011-12 crop. The research has been funded by the Oklahoma Oilseed Commission and the U.S. Department of Agriculture-National Institute of Food Agriculture.

The trials evaluated genetic resistance, fungicide effectiveness and timing, and yield loss assessment. Rainfall during the crop sea-son was half of the 30-year average. Dry con-ditions made stand establishment in the fall

a challenge. In addition, the drought condi-tions reduced blackleg pressure and produced yield variability, making treatment compari-sons difficult. In addition, below zero freezing conditions in February induced winter decline syndrome, producing varying degrees of browning and hollowing of the internal areas of the plant crown near the soil line (Figure 2). Severely affected plants lodged, while partially affected plants survived to harvest. Despite the adverse conditions, blackleg developed and disease ratings were collected. However, it was difficult to distinguish between blackleg and winter decline syndrome.

Yield Response of Canola Varieties to Blackleg

Commercial canola varieties representing a range of reactions to blackleg were selected based on results from screening trials in Georgia. The varieties HyClass 107W (sus-ceptible), DKW 46-15 (moderately suscepti-ble) and HyClass 154W (moderately resistant) were planted. They were inoculated with the blackleg fungus growing on oat kernels and stubble from an infested canola field at seed-ling (2 to 2 leaves), early rosette (6 to 8 leaves)

and late rosette (12 to 15 leaves) growth stages in the fall and at bolting the first flower bud in the spring. Non-inoculated plots served as the untreated check. Disease incidence, the percentage of plants with blackleg, disease severity and the degree of stem decay by black-leg (0-5; 0 = no disease, 5 = dead plant) were determined on stubble immediately after har-vest on June 4.

Blackleg developed in the trial, but disease severity was low. Varieties responded similarly to blackleg inoculation, indicating they had similar levels of disease resistance (Figure 3). HC 154W was previously classified as the most resistant of the three varieties, but it had the highest disease incidence. DKW46-15 was pre-viously classified as intermediate, but had the lowest disease incidence in this trial. Varieties did not differ for disease severity. Varieties responded in a similar pattern to blackleg inoc-ulation timing. Most plants developed disease, even in the non-inoculated check. However, both disease incidence and severity were great-est at the early (seedling) inoculation tim-ing compared to the other inoculation times (Figure 4). Drought stress reduced yield in one of the replications, which contributed to yield

Blackleg’s Potential in Southern PlainsResearch Determines Best Management Practices

JOHN DAMICONE, PH.D.; MIKE STAMM, M.S.; CHAD GODSEY, PH.D.; AND MARK BOYLES, M.S.

Figure 1. Stem canker symptom of blackleg disease. Figure 2. Swelling and internal discoloration of crown caused by winter decline syndrome.

variability. There was a trend for reduced yield at the seedling inoculation stage but the effect of inoculation timing on yield was not statisti-cally significant (Figure 5). Yields of DKW46-15 were higher than the other entries. In assess-ing the relationship between plot yields and plot disease ratings for the 60 plots, yields were negatively correlated with blackleg incidence and severity. There was an 11-pounds/acre reduction in yield for every increase in percent infection and a 313-pounds/acre reduction in yield for every increase in disease severity from 0 to 5.

Screening Canola Varieties and Breeding Lines for Blackleg Resistance

Canola varieties and breeding lines, obtained from the breeding program at Kansas State University (KSU) and from commercial seed companies, were planted in replicated plots. DEKALB and Croplan Genetics variet-ies served as regional standards for Roundup Ready® types and the KSU varieties ‘Sumner’ and ‘Wichita’ were the regional standards for conventional types. Plots were inoculated by broadcasting oat kernels colonized by the black-leg fungus and canola stubble from an infested field at the seedling stage on Oct. 18, 2011. Plots were evaluated for lodging caused by win-ter decline syndrome in April and for blackleg and internal symptoms of winter decline syn-drome on stubble after harvest on June 10.

A total of 173 entries were screened in this trial. Data from released varieties and selected breeding lines are shown in Table 1. Except for HyClass 115 and DKW 41-10, which were among the most resistant entries to black-leg, the regional standard cultivars generally had low levels of winter decline syndrome and intermediate levels of blackleg. TCI 805 and MH06E10 were the most susceptible to blackleg while the breeding lines KS 4541 and KS 4430 were the most resistant. Other susceptible vari-eties included Dimension, Hornet, Hybristar, HyClass 110W and AAMU 607. There were several KSU breeding lines that had good resis-tance to both blackleg and winter syndrome. Drought reduced yields in some areas of the trial and contributed to yield variability.

Control of Blackleg with Fungicides

Plots of DKW 46-15, a popular canola variety, were planted and inoculated with the blackleg fungus at the seedling stage on Oct. 18, 2011. Fungicides representing the major

Figure 5. Effects of variety and inoculation timing on blackleg development at the OSU Agronomy Research Station in Lake Carl Blackwell, 2010-11.

1000

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Bolting

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Early RosetteSeedling

Check1000

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HC107W (S)

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Diseased Plants (%) Disease Rating (0-5)

Figure 3. Effect of variety on blackleg development at OSU’s Agronomy Research Station in Lake Carl Blackwell, 2010-11.

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Check

Figure 4. Effect of inoculation timing on blackleg development at OSU’s Agronomy Research Station, Lake Carl Blackwell, 2010-11.



mode of action groups were applied at the early rosette stage and again two weeks later. All fungicides were experimental except for Quadris®, a fungicide registered for use on canola. Disease incidence and severity were determined on stubble immediately after har-vest on June 8. Blackleg pressure was low in this trial and drought stress increased yield variability. Quadris and Proline, an experi-mental fungicide, reduced levels of blackleg compared to the untreated check. None of the other fungicides reduced disease levels com-pared to the check. Yield was variable and did not differ among treatments.

The effectiveness of the registered fungicide, Quadris, was evaluated at various application times and number of applications. Quadris was applied once, twice and three times at all possible combinations of application timings at the seedling, early rosette and late rosette stages of crop development. Treated plots were compared to non-treated check plots. Disease incidence and disease severity were deter-mined on stubble immediately after harvest on June 8. Disease pressure was low in this trial and there were no differences in blackleg levels or yield among treatments.

Blackleg’s Yield-Reducing Potential

Based on this first year of field research, blackleg appears to have the potential to reduce yields of winter canola in the south-ern Great Plains. The benefits of fungicide application were not apparent under low dis-ease pressure. However, there was consider-able variability in the reaction of varieties and breeding lines to both blackleg and winter decline syndrome. Selecting resistant variet-ies appears to be the best strategy for disease management. A few varieties had good resis-tance and several breeding lines showed excel-lent promise for managing both problems. In the 2011-12 crop, the leaf spot phase of black-leg has been widespread while winter decline syndrome has been minimal. Results from this year’s trials should lead to better understand-ing of the impacts and management of black-leg in the Southern Plains.

JOHN DAMICONE, PH.D., IS AN EXTENSION PLANT PATHOLOGIST AT OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY IN STILLWATER, OKLA. CHAD GODSEY, PH.D., IS AN OILSEED SPECIALIST AND ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AT OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY IN STILLWATER, OKLA. MIKE STAMM, M.S., IS A CANOLA BREEDER AT KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY IN MANHATTAN, KAN. MARK BOYLES, M.S., IS A CANOLA EXTENSION SPECIALIST AT OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY IN STILLWATER, OKLA.

Table 1. Reaction of selected canola varieties to blackleg and winter decline syndrome, OSU Agronomy Research Station in Lake Carl Blackwell, 2010-11.

Entry

Blackleg (10 Jun)Winter Decline Syndrome (%) Yield

(pounds/acre)Incidence

(%)1

Severity (0-5)2 April 283 sJune 104

Baldur 73 1.9 8 15 879

Dimension 91 3.0 12 27 1308

Dynastie 75 2.1 16 41 797

Flash 83 2.6 18 24 838

Hornet 94 3.0 14 50 981

Safran 73 2.1 12 47 981

Sitro 88 2.9 43 20 511

Visby 85 2.1 20 30 1,287

Hybristar 91 2.7 57 54 429

Hybrisurf 76 2.2 33 39 306

Hybrilux 81 2.7 43 23 429

Kadore 45 1.1 37 17 1,287

Chrome 92 2.7 3 38 1,328

HyClass 110W 92 2.9 17 39 1,042

HyClass 115W 59 1.6 2 7 1,001

HyClass 125W 82 2.5 3 33 1,042

HyClass 154W 80 2.6 8 23 1,124

DKW 41-10 61 1.5 0 10 797

DKW 44-10 82 2.5 12 22 1,042

DKW 46-15 76 2.5 2 20 1,185

DKW 47-15 82 2.5 8 20 899

Virginia 90 2.9 1 61 552

VSX-3 77 2.5 1 45 981

Athena 96 3.0 13 57 450

Amanda 85 2.7 13 36 797

Durola 75 2.3 20 37 470

Kiowa 71 2.1 7 31 1,001

Riley 78 2.0 4 15 1,369

Sumner 84 2.1 26 29 858

Wichita 89 2.8 11 35 1,308

KS 4083 78 2.3 5 24 1,101

KS 4428 70 1.9 5 23 1,124

KS 4022 69 1.7 1 16 1,022

KS NT08 55 1.3 2 16 1,369

KSU R19 58 1.2 0 26 1,390

KSU R21 54 1.0 2 11 1,124

KS 4430 37 0.8 1 14 1,410

KS 4541 34 0.8 0 12 1,390

Rossini 76 2.3 3 50 1,124

TCI 805 97 3.5 32 27 838

AAMU 607 95 3.3 40 61 531

MH06E10 100 3.7 28 50 572

LSD0.05

5 21 0.9 32 32 6171 Percentage of plants with blackleg after harvest.2 Stem girdling after harvest: 0 = no disease, 5 = stem completely girdled by blackleg. 3 Percentage of plot lodged from winter decline syndrome. 4 Plants with internal crown browning and hollowing from winter decline syndrome after harvest.5 Least significant difference.

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IF YOU ASKED BOB SCHROCK when he was a child what he wanted to be as an adult, any-thing but farming would have been his answer. However, he is now a third-generation farmer and pioneer in the canola industry. He quickly estab-lished himself as a major player in the field with the help of the Great Plains Canola Association.

Schrock currently farms on the Kansas/Oklahoma border, residing in right outside Kiowa, Kan., but utilizing Oklahoma cell phone service, with about eight miles of his farm in Oklahoma and four miles in Kansas. U.S. Canola Digest interviewed him via telephone about his journey from knowing nothing about winter canola to dominating the field.

SCHROCK: Someone who [has been a grower] for a while, has several acres and has tried to continually improve yields and the quality of the product.

SCHROCK: I’m a third generation farmer. I drove a tractor for my dad and did all the chores required of a farm boy, but it wasn’t something I was actively planning on doing. It just kind of fell into place at a certain time in my life.

It was about nine years ago … there was a project out of Oklahoma State with Monsanto and some other people that [were working with] a rotation crop in the Central Plains and Southern Great Plains. I had heard about it for maybe a year, but it didn’t really do much for me. But after I went to a canola field day and saw the demonstration with the rotation, the yields, the price for the product and the future of the product with the oil and the meal, it seemed like it had a fit. It just seemed to click.

SCHROCK: I was a wheat grower and stocker cattle operator for about 16 or 17 years before I got into canola. We had been growing wheat for way too long, the labor was getting out of control and I kind of needed to change gears.

SCHROCK: Canola is a whole different ani-mal. It’s a lot more of a finicky and sensitive crop than wheat in this region. The challenges have been dealing with the insects and getting the timing down on insecticides to control things that can give us trouble here. [Canola] is a lot more of an intensive crop so that’s what I spend a lot of my time doing with this job description. I got off the combine and off the tractor — at least more than I used to. I spend a lot of my time scouting and have had to hire

Powerhouse Grower: Bob Schrock

Disease Has Potential to Reduce YieldsBRITTANY FARB

I was a wheat grower and

cattle stocker operator for about

16 or 17 years before I got into

canola. We had been growing

wheat for way too long, the labor

was getting out of control and I

kind of needed to change gears.”

FARB:How do you define

a “powerhouse grower?”

FARB:How did you

get involved with growing canola?

FARB:Can you talk about

your experience as a grower

before canola?

FARB:What challenges do you face as a

canola grower that you didn’t face as a

wheat grower?

“


Winter canola grower Bob Schrock on his farm, which spans about eight miles in Oklahoma and four miles in Kansas.

a lot more operators to run the machinery, which has helped me grow higher yields and be a better farmer with other things I grow besides canola like wheat and corn. It’s helped me evolve as a farmer and that’s a necessity to make this crop profitable in this area.

SCHROCK: It is a little different. The friend-ships I have made with guys from Oklahoma to southern Kansas have been good bonds. The network of what’s happening as things ripen and things move has been a big benefit to growers.

SCHROCK: I do a lot of farm trials with growers from both Kansas State and Oklahoma State. We’ve been involved with this for about nine years now. We do a bit of scouting for blackleg and micronutrients. We’ve figured out some hurdles that we can overcome for the next generation of grow-ers. We’re also trying to figure out produc-tion practices so we can get consistent yields and higher yields to handle more acres in the time-sensitive window that we have here for planting and harvesting because of weather conditions.

SCHROCK: When I first started out, I stud-ied a big, thick Canadian book about canola that is considered to be [the industry’s] Holy Grail of growing. As far as the differences, things that work up [North] don’t always work the same down here because of the humidity and the heat differences. When we’re harvest-ing, we’re going into the summer. When they harvest, they are going out of the summer so there are differences in how you handle the crop with timing. We do a lot of stuff at night after the sun goes down here for humidity. There is such a tight planting window here, we

FARB:How would you

describe the camara-derie among canola

growers compared to other growers?

FARB:What is your

involvement with Kansas State and Oklahoma State?

FARB:Can you explain more about the

differences between winter and spring

canola, other than the fact they grow

during different times of the year?

There is a lot of dry soil because

we are coming off of a serious,

record-breaking drought. We

caught some rain in late fall and

winter and if we can [catch more

rain], we can have a good crop.

If more growers experience that

and have a profitable canola

crop, acres can go up along with

infrastruc ture … Another thing

I’m excited about is the price

premium of canola to wheat in

our area – it’s about double.”

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plant aggressively, even if that means planting 24 hours a day until we get it done.

We also don’t seem to have the environment for blackleg like they do up north, but we did already experience [it] a few years ago. As we get more acres here and get into a tighter rota-tion, we are coming back to the canola crop on the same dirt in two, three, four and five years. Mother Nature will throw curve balls at us, we know that.

SCHROCK: Our main disadvantage that I see so far is when canola is f lowering, it can be very hot [with] low humidity. It’s just a harsh environment in western to southwest Kansas into northern Oklahoma. We also don’t get quite the oil quantity. I think we’ve been run-ning around 40 percent oil on the samples we have been growing over the last several years. There seems to be about 2 or 3 percent more oil in North Dakota and the upper Canadian region because they’re a bit cooler and have a more friendly pod-filling environment than we do here. It’s an ongoing experience to get better quality and we will keep at it.

SCHROCK: You have to keep track of your income for state taxes so it’s a bit more paper-work, but that’s about all it amounts to. It’s no big deal.

SCHROCK: There were a lot of acres put in this year. There is a lot of dry soil because we are coming off of a serious, record-breaking drought. We caught some rain in late fall and winter and if we can [catch more rain], we can have a good crop. If more growers expe-rience that and have a profitable canola crop, acres can go up along with infrastructure. Crushers and trucking companies [will bene-fit because] they can get all of the equipment out to the farms and receive a good price. Another thing I’m excited about is the price premium of canola to wheat in our area — it’s about double.

FARB:What advantages and disadvantages do you

face being located in the south?

FARB:Do you face extra chal-lenges growing across

the state border?

FARB:What do you expect

for the upcoming winter canola

growing season?

SCHROCK: Go to the schools put on by the Great Plains Canola Association in con-junction with the crushers around here or Monsanto and other seed companies. Get a phone number of someone being success-ful with it in close proximity to your farm to mentor you. See what’s working. See what [canola growers] are doing now and see what they have changed in their current operation. Most of them are willing to share their expe-riences and help out their neighbors. Don’t make the same mistakes – there are a lot of mistakes that can happen and I can vouch for that with this crop.

SCHROCK: Jeff Scott* and I go way back. We started growing [canola] at the same time and we bounce things off each other all the time. That’s been a big help. We got in this thing together and have made a lot of mis-takes, but we do a lot of on-farm trials then share our experiences and what we are going to try next. We have a lot of failures but we are always trying to put something away that gets us another two, three, four or five bush-els and do it on a return on investment level that we are happy with. We have lot of pride with [canola] so we want to do the best we can with it.

SCHROCK: The success we have had has made the whole quality of life for my family better than it was. We don’t work the hours per year that we used to and that gives us more time to enjoy life. That’s quite a bit of a reward.

I hope to look back someday and see this winter canola thing that started from just a few thousand acres and a few test plots turn out to be a million plus or 2 million acre plus crop and say ”Hey, I was a part of that in the beginning.”

SCHROCK: Yes, [my family] is probably one of the largest consumers of Land O’Lakes canola butter in the country. My daughter, wife and I put it on just about anything it can go on. We cook with 100 percent canola oil and canola butter. Once you strike up the con-versation with friends and family from all over the country and show you have deep attach-ment to this stuff, it spreads.

BRITTANY FARB IS MANAGING EDITOR OF U.S. CANOLA DIGEST.

FARB:What advice do

you have for novice canola growers?

FARB:Who would you

consider your greatest mentor?

FARB:What do you

consider to be your biggest

accomplishment?

FARB:Are you a

consumer of canola oil?

We cook with 100 percent

canola oil and canola butter. Once you

strike up the conversation with friends

and family from all over the country

and show you have deep attachment

to this stuff, it spreads.”

* Jeff Scott is president of the Great Plains Canola Association based in Pond Creek, Okla.

“

Grow With UsSupport the Canola Industry by Becoming a USCA Member

The U.S. Canola Association (USCA) is the only national organization rep-resenting all industry segments—including producers, processors, food manufacturers, exporters, seed and crop protection companies—with the shared goal of increasing U.S. canola acreage. By becoming a USCA member, you’ll help influence agricultural policy and have access to the most up-to-date canola news. Join today by visiting the member-ship section of the USCA web site at www.uscanola.com and take this “golden” opportunity to support a promising U.S. crop.

For regular updates on what’s hap-pening in the world of canola, sign up for a free subscription to Canola Quick Bytes, an e-newsletter covering such topics as agronomy, legislation, nutrition and biodiesel. Subscribe at www.uscanola.com.


Winter Canola in Double-Cropping SystemAlabama Addresses Local Issues

ERNST CEBERT, PH.D., AND RUFINA WARD, PH.D.

WITH A COMMITMENT to the promotion of canola as a winter crop in the southeastern U.S., researchers at Alabama A&M University (AAMU) are continuing to conduct field research that will help address technical issues concerning local and regional farmers.

AAMU’s research activities include breeding for early maturity, evaluation of harvest aids, management of major insect pests and rotational schemes for winter canola in a double-cropping system. To improve adoption of winter canola by growers in Alabama and the region as a whole, winter canola cultivars must be harvested by mid-May to allow for timely planting of a second (summer) crop. Current commercial varieties are not ready for harvest until early-to mid-June. Early- maturing lines of canola are a potential solution to this problem. AAMU has developed several early-maturing lines of canola, which are being further tested for productivity to determine their commercial competitiveness against existing conventional varieties.

Additional studies involve the evaluation of agrochemicals for the desic-cation of plants at various times before harvest. The use of a proper desic-cant with early-maturing lines will allow growers to harvest profitable winter canola in early May. Successful outcome of this work will increase adoption of the crop by local farmers and, therefore, canola acreage.

AAMU is also involved in monitoring insect pest levels on canola in commercial fields and observing beneficial species on canola. These data will help formulate strategies to control pest species with minimal negative impact on natural enemies and pollinators. Cabbage seedpod weevil and tarnished plant bug are the most dominant pest species in the experimental field plots.

Earlier studies have allowed researchers to determine optimal planting dates (Sept. 15-Oct. 10) in the region. Fertilizer requirement for profitable yield is met at 150 units of nitrogen and 30 units of sulfur. Since the crop is new in the region, insect infestation levels in commercial fields have

not presented economic problems to local farmers to date. However, con-tinued monitoring is necessary to keep up with pest population changes. Preliminary evaluation of early-maturing lines indicates that they are comparable in yield to commercially available conventional varieties.

In 2008, the first commercial production of winter canola in the area was on 400 acres farmed by a local producer working with AAMU. During the 2011 spring harvest, 3,200 acres were harvested in northern Alabama and more is expected to be planted after this year’s harvest. Winter canola is a viable and profitable alternative to winter wheat. However, the primary concern of farmers remains the availability of market outlets. The growth of the crops will depend on the expansion of this market.

ERNST CEBERT, PH.D., IS ASSOCIATE RESEARCH PROFESSOR IN THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES AND RUFINA WARD, PH.D., IS ASSISTANT PROFESSOR IN THE DEPARTMENT OF PLANT AND SOIL SCIENCES AT ALABAMA A&M UNIVERSITY IN NORMAL, ALA.

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winter canola research

〉〉 Can we add value to growing canola?

Food Feed Fuel

E. Cerbert & L. Hanck, 2008.

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THE GREAT PLAINS Canola Research Program (GPCRP), coor-dinated by Kansas State University (KSU), has been supported by the National Canola Research Program since 1994. About $2.1 million has been invested in the region.

One of the goals of the breeding program is to increase oil content and quality. Researchers are selecting parent lines for crossing blocks with stable oil content and developing cultivars that average 40 percent or greater oil across a wide range of environments. The program is using new sources of blackleg resistance and advanc-ing resistant cultivars identif ied through a disease-screening nurs-ery in collaboration with Oklahoma State University.

GPCRP researchers are improving canola production systems in the region by addressing agronomic management issues, including crop establishment, cultivar development under no tillage, planting date, simulated grazing of forage, irrigation, for-age, crop rotation, har-vest management and on-farm testing.

In the three-yea r study at KSU, eight commercial cultivars were seeded in conventional tillage and no tillage with four planting dates. The study showed that crown height decreases with planting date and it is generally higher in no tillage compared to tillage. Some cultivars had lower crown heights across planting dates than others. One of the varieties was Griffin, which was released by KSU in 2011. Other cultivars, espe-cially some of the hybrids, had higher crown heights because of their vigorous fall growth. Four cultivars had higher winter sur-vival in no tillage compared to tillage across planting dates. Three

cultivars, including Griffin, had higher mean yields with no tillage than conventional tillage.

One of the program’s subcontractors, Colorado State University (CSU), is using its funding to conduct an on-farm testing program for

winter canola. On-farm testing for wheat has been very successful as universities and producers tend to put more faith in the results when the research takes place on their farms. CSU hopes to increase aware-ness, visibility and acres of winter canola. Six varieties were planted by eight producers in 2011 and 2012 and the program will be continued in 2012 and 2013.

Momentum for acreage growth in the southern Great Plains is very high. A goal of 300,000 planted acres is set for this fall. Many pro-ducers are anxiously awaiting harvest of this year’s crop. The research conducted and the information disseminated from this collaborative, multidisciplinary project is directly impacting the acreage growth.

MIKE STAMM, M.S., IS A CANOLA BREEDER AT KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY IN MANHATTAN, KAN.

One of the goals of the Great Plains Canola Research Program is to increase oil content and quality in the region.

Today, the program’s highest priorities are cultivar develop-ment, crop produc-tion research and technology transfer to producers.

Evidence of winter decline syndrome.

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Research Program Prospers in Great PlainsCultivar Development, Crop Protection and Technology Remain Priorities

MIKE STAMM, M.S.



Newer Canola Kid on BlockPacific Northwest Continues to Quickly Develop

BRITTANY FARB

ALTHOUGH THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST is not typically known as a major canola-growing region, the past year has been busy for the crop. Jack Brown, Ph.D., professor of plant breeding and genetics at the University of Idaho, updated the U.S. Canola Association in March 2012 about the region’s commitment to the canola industry.

“Spring and winter canola is now mak-ing as much or even more money as other rotational crops in the region,” he said.

Canola seed produc-tion is at an all-time high and continues to appear promising. Construction started on Pac i f ic Coa st Canola in July 2011 in Warden, Wash. This canola crush facility

is designed to crush more than 350,000 metric tonnes of canola seed annually and produce 300 million pounds of canola oil each year.

“There are a lot of potato chip processing plants where we are so there’s a strong customer base right in that area and there’s also a potential to dramatically expand the acreage of western canola,” said Steve Starr, vice president of seed procurement at Pacific Coast Canola. “Assuming that we achieve our goals in increasing acreage, we will have a logistical advantage for vegetable oil and meal for certain markets.”

Odessa Gold Biodiesel is producing 8 million gallons of biodiesel per year, amounting to about 55,000 to 60,000 acres at 150 gallons per acre. The region is also looking forward to the 10th on the 10th Canola Field Day on July 10 at the University of Idaho.

Brown noted that he continues to identify superior cultivars of

winter and spring canola suitable for production in Idaho as well other regions in the Pacific Northwest. Along with Jim Davis, Ph.D., of the University of Idaho and Don Wysocki, Ph.D., and Nick Sirovatka, Ph.D., of Oregon State University, Brown has completed a winter canola variety trial with 24 cultivars. Advanced breeding lines were grown under conventional and direct seed planting methods at eight locations between 2010 and 2011. In addition, a spring canola variety trial with 32 cultivars or advanced breeding lines was planted at eight locations in 2011. For an explanation of the results thus far, see the charts below.

Brown gave several additional progress reports on the following ongoing studies in the region:

• Investigating Different Canola Cultivars in Response toEnvironments in Montana

• Increasing theValue ofWinterCanolaCrops byDevelopingEnsiling Systems (CanolageTM) to Produce Cattle Feed

• OptimizingPlantingDateandTimingofLimitedFallIrrigationto Improve Yields of Fall-Planted Canola in the Semi-Arid Klamath Basin

• DevelopingBiennial,EarlyPlanted,WinterCanolainthePacificNorthwest

• SpringCanolaasaRotationalCropforNorthwesternMontana• OptimizingPlantingDateandTimingofLimitedFallIrrigation

to Improve Yields of Fall-Planted Canola in the Semi-Arid Klamath Basin

Brown also noted that the Pacific Northwest Canola Research Program sponsored a research review consisting of 13 presentations about funded projects and seven new proposals. The 2012 fiscal year appropriation for this program was just over $130,000.


Select Spring Canola Cultivars(pounds / acre)

Cultivar Company 2011

Hyola 401 - 1,991

InVigor 5440 LL Bayer CropSci 2,313

07-H-874 Cargill 2,113

DKL 55-55 RR Monsanto 2,184

2012 CL Mycogen 1,903

HyCLASS 955 RR Croplan Genetics 2,005

Select Winter Canola Cultivars(pounds / acre)

Cultivar Mean 2011 2010

Athena 3,630 4,367 2,893

Amanda 3,900 4,215 3,584

DKW 46-15 RR 3,194 3,493 2,896

Visby 3,293 4,456 2,131

Baldur 3,583 3,936 3,230

Sitro 3,722 4,006 3,438


Photo courtesy Pacific Coast Canola.

Maintaining Momentum in Southern PlainsFocus on Disease Control and Social Media

CHAD GODSEY, PH.D.

WINTER CANOLA ACREAGE has exploded in Oklahoma since 2008 by 138 percent. This rapid increase is a direct result of the OKANOLA project, which introduced winter canola as a profitable alternative crop in the continuous winter wheat systems of western Oklahoma. To maintain the expansion of winter canola acres in the Southern Plains, Oklahoma State University (OSU) has identified five short- and long-term potential obstacles, collectively known as Maintaining the Momentum. These obstacles include insect management, disease management, no-till canola management, rotational systems and extension activities.

In regards to insect management, OSU will document the relationship between the intensity of diamondback moth larvae per plant and winter canola yield, establishing economic thresh-olds. In addition, researchers think it is critical to develop a comprehensive and efficient scouting plan for monitoring of all key and occasional insect pests of winter canola in the Southern Plains.

Currently, disease pressure is low in the region, but it is likely to increase as canola acres continue to expand. Blackleg is a major disease that researchers want to prevent from becoming an obstacle in the Southern Plains. Screening newer varieties and creating a comprehensive management plan for blackleg is important for the long-term success of winter canola in the region.

With the expansion of acreage, problems with canola production in no-till fields, weed control and volunteer canola control in the newer production areas such as Texas arise. One way that the region may overcome some of the problems with keeping stands over the winter in no-till systems is through the use of row crop planters. However, past research has indicated a yield decrease with 30-inch rows in high-yielding environments. Researchers need to evaluate if differences exist in cultivars with their ability to compensate for wider row spacing.

Perhaps the most important pieces of “Maintaining the Momentum” are the region’s exten-sion activities. In addition to field days and meetings around Oklahoma, OSU has taken a multi-faceted approach for timely dissemination of information with several social media tools including an electronic newsletter, five Twitter accounts reaching an estimated 800 followers and three YouTube channels with more than 2,500 views.

The Southern Plains region hopes that by being pro-active in addressing obstacles to canola production with continued support from the U.S. Canola Association, it can continue to increase winter canola production.

CHAD GODSEY, PH.D., IS AN OILSEED SPECIALIST AND ASSISTANCE PROFESSOR AT OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY IN STILLWATER, OKLA.

Trait Stewardship Responsibilities Notice to Farmers

For Genuity® Roundup Ready® Sugarbeets in the U.S.: On February 8, 2011, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) published its decision to implement interim measures of deregulation with conditions for the planting of Genuity® Roundup Ready® Sugarbeets root crops, and of planting under USDA permit for Genuity® Roundup Ready® Sugarbeets seed crops. Genuity® Roundup Ready® Sugarbeets can only be sold, transported and planted in compliance with the conditions imposed by USDA and as set forth in mandatory compliance agreements with USDA, which must be in place prior to transport or planting. Growers must comply with the Monsanto Technology Stewardship Agreement (MTSA) Amendment and the Genuity® Roundup Ready® Sugarbeets Technology Use Guide (TUG) Addendum on www.Genuity.com.

For Genuity® Roundup Ready® Sugarbeets in the U.S.: The Monsanto Technology Stewardship Agreement is amended as follows: Grower agrees to transport and plant Genuity® Roundup Ready® Sugarbeets only for the production of a root crop, and not for seed production, and in compliance with the conditions imposed by the USDA under the deregulation with conditions and as set forth in mandatory compliance agreements with USDA, which grower agrees will be in place prior to transport or planting.

Based on the decision of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) on January 27, 2011, Genuity® Roundup Ready® Alfalfa seed is available for sale and distribution by authorized Seed Companies or their dealers for use in the United States only. This seed may not be planted outside of the United States, or for the production of seed, or sprouts.

Monsanto Company is a member of Excellence Through Stewardship® (ETS). Monsanto products are commercialized in accordance with ETS Product Launch Stewardship Guidance, and in compliance with Monsanto’s Policy for Commercialization of Biotechnology-Derived Plant Products in Commodity Crops. This product has been approved for import into key export markets with functioning regulatory systems. Any crop or material produced from this product can only be exported to, or used, processed or sold in countries where all necessary regulatory approvals have been granted. Do not export Genuity® Roundup Ready® Alfalfa seed or crop, including hay or hay products, to China pending import approval. It is a violation of national and international law to move material containing biotech traits across boundaries into nations where import is not permitted. Growers should talk to their grain handler or product purchaser to confirm their buying position for this product. Excellence Through Stewardship® is a registered trademark of Biotechnology Industry Organization.

B.t. products may not yet be registered in all states. Check with your Monsanto representative for the registration status in your state.

IMPORTANT IRM INFORMATION: RIB Complete™ corn does not require the planting of a structured refuge except in the Cotton-Growing Area where corn earworm is a significant pest. Genuity® SmartStax® RIB Complete™ and Genuity® VT Double PRO® RIB Complete™ corn are blended seed corn products. See the IRM/Grower Guide for additional information. Always read and follow IRM requirements.

Cottonseed containing Monsanto traits may not be exported for the purpose of planting without a license from Monsanto.

Individual results may vary, and performance may vary from location to location and from year to year. This result may not be an indicator of results you may obtain as local growing, soil and weather conditions may vary. Growers should evaluate data from multiple locations and years whenever possible.

ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW PESTICIDE LABEL DIRECTIONS. Roundup Ready® crops contain genes that confer tolerance to glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup® brand agricultural herbicides. Roundup® brand agricultural herbicides will kill crops that are not tolerant to glyphosate. Acceleron and Design®, Acceleron®, Asgrow®, Biotech Yield Assurance®, BYASM, Bollgard II®, Genuity and Design®, Genuity Icons, Genuity®, Respect the Refuge and Cotton Design®, RIB Complete and Design™, RIB Complete™, Roundup Ready 2 Technology and Design®, Roundup Ready 2 Yield®, Roundup Ready®,Roundup®, SmartStax and Design®, SmartStax®, VT Double PRO®, VT Triple PRO®, YieldGard VT Triple® and YieldGard VT® are trademarks of Monsanto Technology LLC. Ignite® and LibertyLink® and the Water Droplet Design® are registered trademarks of Bayer. Herculex® is a registered trademark of Dow AgroSciences LLC. Respect the Refuge® and Respect the Refuge and Corn Design® are registered trademarks of National Corn Growers Association. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. ©2011 Monsanto Company.

Photos courtesy of Oklahoma State University.

I am proud to say that we have put together a bipartisan bill that strengthens and preserves the safety net for our farmers and ranchers and rural America, while providing $23 billion in deficit reduction under this mark as drafted. Let me repeat that: the Senate Agriculture Committee has drafted a bill that voluntarily provides $23 billion in deficit reduction.

We’ve eliminated:• Fourcommodityprogramsandrolledthemintoone,while

saving approximately $15 billion from farm safety-net programs.• 23Conservationprogramsarestreamlinedinto13whilesaving

nearly $6.4 billion.• $4billionissavedinthenutritiontitle.• 15 program authorizations are eliminated in the Rural

Development title, eliminating over $1 billion of authorized spending over 10 years.

• Twoprogramsarecombinedandanothertwoeliminatedinspecialty crops.

• Over $1.2 billion in mandatory money is transferred todiscretionary authorizations in the Energy title.

• Fiveprogramsareeliminated intheForestrytitle,reducingauthorizations by at least $20 million.

• And,over60authorizationsareeliminatedfromtheResearchtitle, reducing authorizations by at least $770 million over 5 years.

Madame Chairwoman; that is $23 billion in mandatory savings – at least $1.8 billion in reduced discretionary authorizations, and at least 96 programs or authorizations eliminated.

This is a reform bill. No other committee, in the House or Senate, has voluntarily undertaken programmatic and funding reforms at this level in this budget climate.

Madame Chairwoman, this is not only a reform bill. It is also one that strengthens and preserves our farm risk management, conserva-tion, research and rural community programs.

We have strengthened and preserved the crop insurance program – the number one priority of virtually every producer that testified before our Committee. We’ve streamlined our commodity programs while reducing complexity for the producer. We’ve updated the acreage upon which support is based to reflect more recent cropping patterns.

Madame Chairwoman, that’s a point I want to discuss a little more. In recent days, it has seemed there has been a little confusion here in the Capitol region. It seems that some think we should write farm safety-net programs and allocate their funding by commodity group or organization.

If all you did was listen to these groups, you’d think we were robbing Peter to pay Paul. I understand that the elimination of direct payments is a big deal to many commodities.

I originally authored the program. One of the biggest beneficiaries of

the program has been wheat – especially in Kansas. But the taxpayers have been clear in this budget climate. Why should Congress defend a program based on planting acreages established over 25 years ago?

Yes. The elimination of direct payments means the end of many wheat payments in Kansas. But, that does not mean Kansas producers will no longer have a farm safety-net. Quite the contrary, they’ll have a strong risk management system, it’ll just be for different crops.

Why? Because when base acres were established over 25 years ago, Kansas planted 2.8 million acres of corn, 4.2 million acres of sorghum, 1.6 million acres of soybeans, and 12.1 million acres of wheat.

In the most recent three year period Kansas farmers planted 4.6 mil-lion acres of corn, 2.6 million acres of sorghum, 4 million acres of soy-beans, and 8.8 million acres of wheat. That is 4.9 million fewer acres of wheat and sorghum and 4.2 million more acres of corn and soybeans. Madame Chairwoman, those acreage shifts have occurred because farmers made those decisions – not Washington. Our producers have planted for the domestic and international markets.

Money is shifting among commodities because farmers are farming differently – throughout the states on this Committee. It is not shifting because we are intentionally picking winners and losers .

… Along with crop insurance, Title I programs establish the very fabric of the farm safety net. They ensure that dramatic swings in com-modity prices and volatile weather don’t put farmers and ranchers out of business. Further, they ensure that we, as consumers, always have a stable food and fiber supply.

That safety net has to exist for all regions, and all crops, and has to be written with bad times in mind. These programs should not guar-antee that the good times are the best, but rather that the bad times are manageable …

Our farmers and ranchers have to deal with the uncertainties of weather and the insecurities of markets and many times dramatically unfair for-eign competition. So it is critical that we get the policy right. With all the challenges that our producers face, farm policy can’t be one of them.

And to that end, I have said many times, and I think it is a reflection of what my colleagues have just noted, the farm bill that we craft has to rec-ognize the diversity of agriculture in America. It has to work for all regions and all commodities. And that’s why it is vitally important that the com-modity title provide producers with options so they can choose the pro-gram that works best for them, whether it is protecting revenue, or price.

Additionally, the Agriculture Committee has heard very clearly from producers the importance of crop insurance. And, I am committed to providing a strong crop insurance program for them.

DALE THORENSON IS ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF THE U.S. CANOLA ASSOCIATION IN WASHINGTON, D.C.


❰ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

usca update

Ranking Member Pat Robert’s Opening Statement, April 26Senate Agriculture Committee Mark-up of 2012 Farm Bill (from Senate Ag Committee page).

Chair Frank Lucas’ Opening Statement, May 16 Hearing on 2012 Farm Bill before the House Agriculture Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities and Risk Management (transcribed from hearing video).


quick bytes

capitol hill The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office granted two patents to Burcon NutraScience Corporation for the production of canola pro-tein isolates Supertein™ and Nutratein™. Supertein contains higher levels of the sulfur amino acids cysteine and methionine and will be used for food items such as beverages, desserts and protein bars. Nutratein con-tains the storage proteins napin and cruciferin and will be used in animal feed and aquaculture applications.

On April 26, the U.S. Labor Department announced the com-plete withdrawal of the proposed rule on child labor in agriculture, including a possible narrowing of the parental exemption for chil-dren working on family farms. Instead, the Departments of Labor and Agriculture plan to partner with farm organizations, Future Farmers of America and 4-H groups to develop an edu-cational program to help reduce farm accidents involving youth.

agronomy After a dry fall and record-set-ting hot March, yield prospects in the Southern Plains are ter-rific for canola farmers whose crops bloomed two to three weeks ahead of schedule. “We’ll be seeing some really exciting things this year if Mother Nature

helps us out,” said Jeff Scott, president of the Great Plains Canola Association, to the Ag Journal. This year’s tall, dense and pod-heavy crop has agron-omists debating just how high canola yields can go. The return of cooler and wetter weather in April brought more blooms to the crops, potentially increas-ing yields even more. Scott spent $350 an acre on his canola this year, about $50 an acre more than he would usually spend, but it is paying off. With canola prices up this year, Scott plans to make $500 an acre gross profit.

nutritionCanola oil is now associated with a breakthrough in cancer research. Published in the April 2012 issue of Cancer Prevention Research, a Rutgers University study states two forms of vitamin E in products like canola oil may have cancer-fighting properties. “Our mes-sage is that the vitamin E form of gamma-tocopherols, the most abundant form of vitamin E in the American diet, and delta-tocoph-erols, also found in vegetable oils, are beneficial in prevent-ing cancers,” said Chung S. Yang, director of the Center for Cancer Prevention Research at Rutgers.

Nutritionists at Oklahoma State University recommend using healthy oils such as canola oil for cooking to cut solid fat from the diet. They also recommend using lean cuts of meat with little fat, choosing low-fat or fat-free dairy products and eating a variety of protein sources such as nuts, beans and eggs.

oil for fuel Dairy farmer Ben Magness took the unusual step of planting 25 acres of canola in Maryland, which is rarely found in the region. In fact, he believes he is the only farmer actively grow-ing canola in the state. He wasn’t even sure if canola would grow locally when he tested it out on one acre before investing in an oil-extraction system. Curious passersby stopped to ask ques-tions about and take pictures of the yellow flowers so Magness erected a sign in his field identify-ing the plants as “oilseed canola.” He crushes his own canola for meal, which he sells for feed and uses to nourish his own cows, and oil. His ultimate goal is to produce food-grade oil to sell at restaurants and farmer’s markets.

latest from canadaCanada’s canola crushers are pro-cessing the oilseed at a record pace. The Canadian Oilseed Processors Association reports Canadian canola processors have crushed almost 4.6 million tonnes of seed this year – ahead of last year’s record of 6.3 million tonnes. The increase in demand is in response to rising popularity of canola oil in the U.S. commer-cial food market. It also follows the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s approval of the use of Canadian canola in U.S. biodiesel.According to Oil World, Canadian

canola plantings may increase from 6.6 percent to 12 percent this year as farmers respond to higher prices. These plantings may exceed the European Union’s combined sowing of winter and spring rapeseed for the first time. Bloomberg reports produc-tion could reach between 15 mil-lion and 15.4 million metric tons from about 14.4 million tons last year and 13.1 million tons in 2010. Planting will increase from 7.6 hectares last year to up to 8.5 mil-lion hectares.

about uscaThe U.S. Canola Association Annual Membership & Board of Director Meetings were held March 19-21 in Washington, D.C. Newly elected board mem-bers are producers Pat Murphy (N.D.) and Andrew Moore (Ga.) and industry representatives Al Dombek of CHS, Neil Juhnke of Northstar Agri-Industries, Grant Ozipko of Syngenta, John Slater of Cargill and Mark Torno of Winfield Solutions. The gather-ing included the annual “Canola on Capitol Hill” reception on March 20, where about 450 Congressional staff involved with agriculture enjoyed a “Canola Country BBQ Chew,” featuring dishes from U.S. canola-growing regions. USCA members also met individually with Congressional staff to push for farm bill and research priorities.


Black Bean Burgers with Avocado-Lime Mayonnaise

MAYONAISSE ½ ripe medium avocado, peeled and pitted 2 Tbsp canola mayonnaise 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice 1 Tbsp water ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

BURGERS1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained ½ of 15-oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained ½ cup finely chopped green bell pepper ¹⁄³ cup quick-cooking oats 2 large egg whites 1 Tbsp canola oil ¹⁄8-¼ tsp cayenne pepper canola oil cooking spray 4 whole-wheat hamburger buns, split and toasted ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion 4 tomato slices 4 lettuce leaves 4 lime wedges (optional)

1. Place canola mayonnaise ingredients in blender, secure lid and purée until smooth.

2. Place beans in gallon-size resealable bag. Using meat mallet, pound beans to coarse texture, resembling lumpy mashed potatoes. Place beans in medium bowl and add bell pepper, oats, egg whites, canola oil and cayenne pepper. Mix well and shape into four patties.

3. Coat large, nonstick skillet with canola oil cooking spray and heat over medium heat. Patties and cook 4 minutes on each side or until they begin to lightly brown. Patties will be fragile, so be sure to turn them gently.

4. To assemble, spoon 1 Tbsp canola mayonnaise mixture on each bun half. Top each bottom bun with burger, onion, tomato slice and lettuce leaf. Place bun tops over each. Serve with lime wedges.

Yield: 4 servings. Serving size: 1 burger.

AS A DISPLACED MISSOURI GIRL, I have some pretty distinct characteristics. I cheer for the Cardinals, drink Budweiser whenever possible and understand the concept of foods such as gooey butter cake and toasted ravioli. Growing up, a dinner without meat was simply not considered a real meal to my Midwestern family. Ribs, chicken and ground beef were the usual suspects and despite moving to and from various cities around the country in my young adult life, I stayed true to my meat lover cravings.

Until this summer… In an attempt to incorporate more vegetables into my diet, I started to experiment with several plant-based diets. I attended a vegetarian Passover Seder, researched several alternative diets and thoroughly investigated the health benefits of various vegetables and fruits (after all, I am a journalist!).

So what’s a meat and potatoes girl to do with a bunch of plants? With summertime here, I knew it would be difficult incorporating those fruits and veggies into my diet with so many meat-based barbeque treats available. But I quickly found a few alternatives.

My favorite find was CanolaInfo’s Black Bean Burger with Avocado-Lime Mayonnaise, a vegetarian twist on the classic burger. Although it contains no meat, each serving provides a whopping 19 grams of protein and thanks to canola oil, only 1.8 grams of saturated fat. The recipe calls for a flavorful combination of potatoes, beans, bell pepper, oats, egg whites and cayenne pepper and with canola oil’s neutral taste and light texture, these distinct flavors pop. It’s definitely different than that standard beef patty and ketchup!

I do maintain burger tradition with a bun, but for a low-carb variation, omit the bread and serve the patty on a lettuce leaf and slices of tomato and onion. Spoon the mayonnaise mix-ture on top of the patty and add a few lime wedges for presentation. With or without the bun, this creative and healthy recipe will appeal to meat eaters and non-meat eaters alike.

For additional summer meal ideas, visit the “grilling” recipe collection at www.canolainfo.org.


BRITTANY FARB

Redefining the Summer Burger

canola cooks

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Main Photo: Direct Harvesting of Desiccated Winter Canola with a JD Flex Header.

Hybrid Technology meetsHybrid Agronomy®

THE NEXT LEVEL IN YIELD

RUBISCO SEEDSProviding high performance winter canola

genetics for “America’s Newest Row Crop.” TM

www.rubiscoseeds.com :: [email protected](270) 903-4994

SR

Main Photo: Direct Harvesting of Desiccated Winter Canola with a JD Flex Header.

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June-July 2012