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About Us
Founded in 1957, the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) represents approximately 35,000 dues-paying corn growers and the interests of more than 300,000 farmers who contribute through corn checkoff programs in their states. NCGA and its 48 affiliated state associations and checkoff organizations work together to help protect and advance corn growers' interests.
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Corn Yield Contest on Track for Another Record Year
 The summer may be winding down, but things are heating up for the National Corn Growers Association's National Corn Yield Contest this August. While entries are still processing, preliminary reports indicate that members submitted more than 7,000 valid entries forms this year. If this proves accurate, the 2010 contest would break the previous entry record set in 2009 with 9,655 entries.
While in its 46th year, participation in the contest has skyrocketed since 2007, when only 4,932 entries were submitted. Should entries exceed the 7,000, the contest would have grown more than 40 percent in only four years and upheld its traditional status as the most popular program among members.
The contest, which bestows awards in a variety of categories and across a range of geographical areas, provides farmers with both a chance to compete and with a tool through which they can find the best ways to increase yields throughout their operations - thus increasing efficiency, productivity and profitability.
"The amazing amount of effort that entrants, both old and new, put into the CYC inspires me," said Tim Dolan, chairman of NCGA's Grower Services Action Team. "Through its long history, this program has always provided growers a chance to celebrate success and explore better production methods. As we must continually increase yields to meet growing demands, the contest provides an exciting vehicle to improve growing methods."
The winners will be honored during a special breakfast held during the 2011 Commodity Classic in Tampa, Fla. They will also be featured in a special edition ofFarm Journal magazine.
To listen to a special edition Off the Cob interview with Dolan and Production and Stewardship Action Team Chair Steve Ebke, please click here. |
Little River Band Sails into 2011 Commodity Classic Entertainment Schedule
 The chart-topping Little River Band will bring its popular harmonies and classic rock sounds to the Evening of Entertainment stage in Tampa, Fla., at the 2011 Commodity Classic convention and trade show March 3-5. The Evening of Entertainment is generously sponsored by Monsanto. Commodity Classic is the premier convention and trade show of the National Corn Growers Association, the American Soybean Association, the National Sorghum Producers and the National Association of Wheat Growers.
Described as "the best harmony band in the world," the Little River Band is in its 35th year of producing and performing hit making music. The group has sold over 25 million records and has 13 American top 40 hits to its credit.
Come join us at the Tampa Convention Center for this exclusive Commodity Classic event as the Little River Band performs its unforgettable melodies.
"Always educational, always fun, the 2011 Commodity Classic has something for every member of the family to enjoy," said Commodity Classic Co-Chair Theresa Schmalshof. "From checking out the latest agricultural technologies and techniques, to soaking up Tampa Bay sunshine, you'll have plenty of reasons to be pleased you came."
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Projections Vary; All Indicate Record Harvest
While projections for the 2010 corn crop may not be in complete agreement, everyone is certain that it will be a very good harvest. With estimates of between 13.29 billion and 13.365 billion bushels, U.S. corn growers are on course to set yet another production record this year, easily surpassing the 13.1 billion bushel harvest record set in 2009.
"As harvest approaches, we are excited about and energized by the record predictions in these reports," said National Corn Growers Association President Darrin Ihnen, a grower from Hurley, S.D. "Corn is fundamental as a staple crop in this country and this bountiful harvest helps create and maintain jobs while directly helping many consumers by keeping food, fuel and fiber prices down."
The U.S. Department of Agriculture supply and demand report released Aug. 12 projected that the total corn harvest would total 13.365 billion bushels. This week, Pro Farmer projects that, based upon samples taken in seven Midwestern states, harvest will total only 13.29 billion bushels. For the whole story, click here. |
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Talking Issues and Listening to Experts
The fourth annual summer meeting of the National Corn Growers Association's Agri-Industry Council (AIC) was held last week in Florida, providing grower-leaders and key staff the opportunity to share challenges and ideas with agribusiness participants and learn about new products and services on the horizon for corn farmers.
"These meetings are an excellent way for our organization to collect and share important information about the future of our industry and to generate ways to move our growers forward," said NCGA President Darrin Ihnen. "Our success as farmers depends on all of us working together for the good of American agriculture and the families that depend on us for food and fuel."
For the whole story, click here. |
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Export Opportunities for U.S. Corn
In an increasingly global marketplace, a dry wheat growing season in Russia can lead to big sales for U.S. corn growers. As the Russian drought drags on and the resultant export ban remains in place, international grain buyers are looking to the United States for corn to help meet ongoing demands.
While the Russian Statistics Committee estimates Russia's domestic wheat production at 70-75 million metric tons, a 15 million ton reduction from earlier estimates, the U.S. Grains Council estimates that number to be roughly 65-68 million tons. This change in grain balance will inevitably have a serious impact on grain prices and Russian government policy.
Historically, Russia exports between 6-7 million tons from August through December. Because of the current ban, this figure will need to be filled by other sources. While the world's supply will be able to cover the deficient, the more difficult problem will be if there is no rain in the next six weeks. This will inhibit Russia from planting its winter wheat crop, affecting its ability to export. This will impact next year's global grain market in a significant way.
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