Economic Feasibility of Ethanol From Sugar Crops

This research out of LSU indicates that, at least for now, corn is the most economically feasible feedstock for ethanol production in the U.S.

The Economic Feasibility of Ethanol Production from Sugar Crops

Michael E. Salassi

Ethanol is a high-octane fuel used primarily as a gasoline additive and extender. Since the late 1970s, methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) has replaced lead as the primary gasoline additive in the United States. Over the past few years, however, several states have banned the use of MTBE as a gasoline additive because of its environmental problems resulting in groundwater contamination. The reduction in use of MTBE and recent surging prices for petroleum-based fuels are dramatically increasing the demand for ethanol and the interest in ethanol production in the United States.

Ethanol can be produced from carbohydrates such as...(complete article here).

Wind-Power to Battery

This is a major issue with wind power generation.

Xcel Energy Launches Groundbreaking Wind-to-Battery Project

Minneapolis MN (SPX) Feb 29, 2008

Xcel Energy soon will begin testing a cutting-edge technology to store wind energy in batteries. It will be the first use of the technology in the United States for direct wind energy storage.

Integrating variable wind and solar power production with the needs of the power grid is an ongoing issue for the utility industry. Xcel Energy will begin testing a...(complete article here).

Picturing Fusion

Nuclear fusion -- the "holy grail" of the quest for energy. From MIT....

New 'snapshots' aid quest for fusion energy

Anne Trafton, News Office
February 28, 2008

Physicists at MIT and the University of Rochester have devised a new way to take "snapshots" of the high-energy, high-temperature reactions seen as key to achieving the long-held dream of controlled nuclear fusion.

The work, which is reported in the Feb. 28 issue of Science, could one day help scientists harness nuclear fusion as an energy source. It could also shed light on basic questions about the physics of stars.

Nuclear fusion--the process by which atomic particles clump together to form a heavier nucleus--releases...(complete article here).

Batteries: Future Fortunes

Batteries. Where fortunes will be made....

Cracking The Battery Barrier

Melanie Lindner, 02.28.08, 12:30 PM ET

Wouldn't it be great if you didn't have to worry about your cellphone losing its charge? How about your laptop, MP3 player, even your car?

While the global battery market is enormous--some $55 billion, according to...(complete article here).

More on CO2 to Fuel

OK, I can see the headlines now -- Microbes Escape, Plant Life Doomed! I can imagine the plot to a new Michael Crichton thriller based on this technology. Here's another possible headline -- Methane Rain Creates Volatile Situation!

Famed geneticist creating life form that turns CO2 to fuel

MONTEREY (AFP) - A scientist who mapped his genome and the genetic diversity of the oceans said Thursday he is creating a life form that feeds on climate-ruining carbon dioxide to produce fuel.

Geneticist Craig Venter disclosed his potentially world-changing "fourth-generation fuel" project at an elite Technology, Entertainment and Design conference in Monterey, California.

"We have modest goals of...(complete article here).

Cleaning Water With Microbes

Finding the right microbes to solve an important problem...

Nature’s helpers: Using microorganisms to remove toxins from water

In 2002, Bruce Rittmann, PhD, director of the Biodesign Institute’s Center for Environmental Biotechnology, received a patent for an innovative way to use nature to lend society a hand. He invented a treatment system, called the membrane biofilm reactor (MBfR), which...(complete article here).

Transmission Capacity Limits Wind Power

Transmission capacity. How do we get it from where it is produced to where it is needed?

Wind energy confronts shortage of transmission lines

By Paul Davidson, USA TODAY

As wind farms sprout across the country, they're kicking up a new quandary: how to zap the electricity to homes and businesses that need it.

The USA's wind-power boom, especially in rural parts of Texas, the Midwest and California, is poised to outstrip the capacity of high-voltage lines to...(complete story here).

A Look At Longhorns

From the Canyon News.

A look at longhorns

I have been re-reading “The Longhorns” by J. Frank Dobie. Being something of a history buff, especially history that relates to Texas and even more particularly, that relates to the Panhandle region, I have really enjoyed getting reacquainted with this classic work.

When we look at the cattle that cover the plains today, what we see is a...(complete article here).

This post also on Panhandle Poetry and Other Thoughts.

Stomata Controlling Genes

Drought tolerance is a key issue to advancing food crop technology. It could be extremely important to Africa.


Scientists advance 'drought crop'

By Matt McGrath
BBC News science reporter

Scientists say they have made a key breakthrough in understanding the genes of plants that could lead to crops that can survive in a drought.

Researchers in Finland and the United States say they have discovered a gene that controls the amount of carbon dioxide a plant absorbs.

It also controls the...(complete article here).

Loss of Wind Equals Emergency

This is an issue that I've posted about previously. The variability of wind power can create a nightmare for utilities.

Think about what happens when a major cold front passes through. You often begin with a southwest wind that drops to near calm as the front approaches and then switches to the north and the temperatures drop. That lull in the wind creates a temporary "hole" in the power flowing into the grid just before the temperatures drop and everyone's heater kicks on.

Think about summer. The hot still days are when we most want our air conditioners. Those days don't produce much wind.

Loss of wind causes Texas power grid emergency

HOUSTON (Reuters) - A drop in wind generation late on Tuesday, coupled with colder weather, triggered an electric emergency that caused the Texas grid operator to cut service to some large customers, the grid agency said on Wednesday.

Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) said a decline in wind energy production in west Texas occurred at the same time evening electric demand was building as colder temperatures moved into the state.

The grid operator went directly to...(complete article here).

Argentine Beef Genes To China

Better beef for China.

Argentine firm to export bovine genetics to China

BUENOS AIRES (Reuters) - Argentina, a country famous for its steaks, will start exporting bovine genetics this year to China, which is trying to improve its meat production as consumption surges.

The world's second-largest beef producer, China produced...(complete article here).

DOE Investment In Renewable Fuels

The DOE will help boost the cellulosic industry with a little capital injection.

U.S. Department of Energy to Invest up to $33.8 Million to Further Development of Commercially Viable Renewable Fuels

ORLANDO, FL – U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Andy Karsner today announced that DOE will invest up to $33.8, over four years, (Fiscal Years 2008-2011) for four projects that will focus on developing improved enzyme systems to...(complete article here).

Bugs Give Their All To Combat Hunger

I hope it doesn't come to that. I just don't see much meat on a "beetle" steak!

THAILAND

Eat insects to beat world hunger,
UN scientists sayLarvae, crickets and worms are rich in proteins and minerals that are essential to the human body; experts advise eating bugs during drought and other crises.

Chiang Mai (AsiaNews/Agencies) – “I definitely think they can assist,” said German biologist V.B. Meyer-Rochow, who regularly eats insects and wore a T-shirt with a harlequin longhorn beetle to an UN-sponsored workshop this month on promoting bugs as a food source. Almost 40 scientists from 15 countries gathered in the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai, home to several dozen restaurants serving insects and other bugs.

Some of their proposals are...(complete article here).

Global Fertilizer Supply

High prices, high demand. (From the FAO)


Global fertilizer supply expected to outstrip demand

New FAO fertilizer outlook to 2011/12 published

February 2008, Rome – World fertilizer production is expected to outstrip demand over the next five years and will support higher levels of food and biofuel production, FAO said in a new report entitled “Current world fertilizer trends and outlook to 2011/12” published today.

“High commodity prices experienced over...(complete article here).

Texas Wind Power

It's not "black" gold, it is colorless....(from the NY Times)

Move Over, Oil, There’s Money in Texas Wind

SWEETWATER, Tex. — The wind turbines that recently went up on Louis Brooks’s ranch are twice as high as the Statue of Liberty, with blades that span as wide as the wingspan of a jumbo jet. More important from his point of view, he is paid $500 a month to permit 78 of them on his land, with 76 more on the way.

“That’s just money you’re hearing,” he said as they hummed in a brisk breeze recently.
Texas, once the oil capital of North America, is rapidly turning into the capital of wind power.

After breakneck growth the last three years, Texas has...(complete article here).

Food vs Fuel: The Saga Continues

Corn-to-fuel putting burden on food-grain markets

Bloomberg News

U.S. plans to replace 15 percent of gasoline consumption with crop-based fuels including ethanol are already leading to some unintended consequences as food prices and fertilizer costs increase.

About 33 percent of U.S. corn will be used for fuel during the next decade, up from 11 percent in 2002, the Agriculture Department estimates. Corn rose...(complete article here).

Where Is The Beef?

Cattle producers are facing a wild-and-crazy ride over the coming months. This year promises to be even more unpredictable than the last few.

A number of factors will significantly impact cattlemen and livestock markets. One of the big ones is that it is an election year. The different political parties have different approaches to how best to manage the economy. They each have different priorities on how our tax dollars are spent. They each have different attitudes toward the role of government (although those differences are not as distinguishable as they once were). The projected and final outcome of first, the primaries, and then the general election, will add volatility to markets that are already bouncing all over the spectrum. It would be nice to have a crystal ball.

Ethanol will continue to be a major factor influencing beef production. The immediate impact is at the feedlot where cost-of-gain is heavily influenced by corn prices. That impact ripples back through the supply chain to impact feeder cattle prices, stocker cattle prices and ultimately cow prices.

Commodity prices, which are currently being driven to a large extent by ethanol, also affect land use allocation on farming operations. Some lands that have traditionally been used for grazing are being shifted to crop production. Crops that are usually grazed, such as wheat in the southern plains states, are now being held back from grazing because the value of the grain production outweighs the value of leasing the crop to pasture cattle. Recent reports indicate that cattle on wheat pasture this winter were over one million head fewer than last year. Part of that was due to drought conditions, but part of it is due to the desire of the farmers to harvest the wheat for grain because of extremely favorable prices.

We still don’t have a Farm Bill. The uncertainty stemming from the lack of a Farm Bill impacts both commodity and livestock prices. We don’t know what payment caps may be placed on direct payments. We don’t know what taxes may be added. We don’t know how much emphasis will be placed on conservation and energy measures. In short, we really don’t know anything until a bill is passed. This may be the single biggest factor for determining markets over the coming year.

What will happen in the export markets? We have dealt with the BSE crisis and with bone fragments in exported beef. We have been negotiating for years with some countries over easing import restrictions. There appears to be some progress, but the outcome is uncertain at best. The level of exports has a tremendous impact on the price of beef.

Drought in some key beef production areas has impacted calf production. The Southeastern U.S. is one of the most important cow/calf areas of the country. A large portion of their cow herd has been liquidated due to drought conditions the last couple of years.

Other trends that are impacting cattle numbers include things like urban sprawl. Many cities and suburbs have expanded into areas that were once prime cattle producing ranches. Central Texas and the Dallas-Fort Worth areas have become covered with housing developments where cattle once grazed. Hunting and other recreational uses have also removed many ranches from production. Often, hunting leases are tied to exclusive use rights – in other words, no cattle grazing in conjunction with the hunting lease. National forest and BLM lands are also under increasing pressure from environmentalists to reduce grazing. Droughts in western states have further reduced the carrying capacity of much of the federally managed lands.

For the beef producer, there may be some glimmer of hope. Reduced cattle inventories will eventually lead to improved prices for those who remain in business – especially if export markets are re-opened. Increased beef prices will help to offset the negative impact of higher feed prices. Higher feed prices will lend toward a shorter feeding period which may contribute to a shortening of the marketing cycle. This should translate into smaller carcasses and an overall reduction in beef production which will further increase beef prices.

For the consumer it looks like higher beef prices are definitely in the future.

DOI Funds for Wildlife

From the Department of the Interior:


State Wildlife Agencies to Receive Over $700 Million for Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration

Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne announced today the distribution of more than $700 million to 56 state and territorial fish and wildlife agencies to fund fish and wildlife conservation efforts, boat access, shooting ranges and hunter education. Kempthorne made the announcement at the Bassmasters Classic professional fishing tournament in Greenville, South Carolina.

The funding is made available to states and territories through...(complete article here).

Gray Wolf Success

Another success story -- but a problem for many ranchers.

Western gray wolves coming off endangered list

Estimated 1,500 animals now roam Idaho, Montana, Wyoming

BILLINGS, Mont. - Gray wolves in the Northern Rockies are being removed from the endangered species list, following...(complete article here).

Ag Exports Forecast Up

This is good for the balance of trade.


USDA RAISES AGRICULTURAL EXPORTS FORECAST TO RECORD $101 BILLION FOR 2008

WASHINGTON, D.C., February 21, 2008 – At the U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Outlook Forum, Secretary Ed Schafer today announced that U.S. agricultural exports are forecast to reach a record $101 billion for fiscal year 2008, up $10 billion from November’s forecast and an unprecedented $19 billion above 2007.

This latest forecast...(complete article here).

New Compounds, Old Sources

Bio-diversity is critical. You never know what new compounds will be derived from virtually overlooked species.

New Prospects for an All-Around Spice

By Ann Perry
February 20, 2008

People use anise to add a hint of licorice to everything from holiday springerle cookies to robust bottles of ouzo and raki. Now Agricultural Research Service (ARS) postdoctoral scientist Nurhayat Tabanca and plant pathologist David Wedge have found that anise (Pimpinella sp.) is more than just another jar in the spice rack.

Teaming up with colleagues in...(complete article here).

Plenty of Food, Plenty of Hunger

Food Policy issues in Latin America and the Caribbean.


Freeing Latin America and the Caribbean from hunger

In Latin America and the Caribbean, more than 52 million people -- 10 percent of the region's population -- suffer from malnutrition or hunger. Yet paradoxically the region is the biggest exporter of food on the planet. This illustrates that...(complete article here).

Corn/Oil Price Linkages and Farm Decision-making

OK. This one is a bit complex and certainly, at least for a non-economist, difficult to follow. Essentially, it discusses the linkage between the ethanol subsidy, the price of oil, and the amount of ethanol produced -- as well as the cost of that subsidy to the consumer at various oil price levels. Corn prices and oil prices are now closely correlated whereas prior to the ethanol mandates, that was not necessarily the case. In the future, a corn farmer may decide how much corn to plant based on projected oil prices, not loan rates, defficiency payments, export markets, etc.

Policies key as ethanol 'revolution' links agriculture, energy sectors

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - The recent boom in production of ethanol from corn grain has tightly linked the agriculture and energy sectors in an unprecedented fashion.

Purdue University researchers developed a model, based on a range of possible oil prices, that predicts impacts of federal economic policies on future consumer and government costs, ethanol production and many other aspects of the two sectors.

"We are living through a...(complete article here).

World Grain Demand and Food Security

Food security may become a serious issue -- for everybody.

Ag economist: World grain demand straining U.S. supply

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Consumers usually reduce their purchases of goods and services if prices become too high. Buyers of United States corn, soybeans and wheat seem to be ignoring that economic principle, however, as the nation's grain stocks reach critically low levels, said Chris Hurt, a Purdue University agricultural economist.

With global demand for grain and oilseeds at record levels and...(complete article here).

A New Blog for Your Enjoyment

Note the new icon in my sidebar for Blue Island Almanack. It is a blog in which I participate that focuses on current and emerging issues on the economy, education, environment and ethics. Drop by and take a look. Feel free to comment. Be sure and add it to your favorites!

A Booming Green Economy?

The push for a "green" economy is fueling a boom in many areas. Who says green has to kill profits and raise prices?

Breaking Down the Barriers to a Green Economy

UNEP Launches Year Book 2008 at its 10th Special Session of the Governing Council/Global Ministerial Environment Forum in Monaco

20-22 February

Monaco, 20 February 2008-An emerging Green Economy is glimpsed in the latest United Nations Environment Programme's (UNEP) Year Book as growing numbers of companies embrace environmental policies and investors pump hundreds of billions of dollars into cleaner and renewable energies.

Climate change, as documented in the Year Book, is...(complete article here).

Cotton Research on Heat Tolerance

Heat and drought tolerance are important characteristics for meeting future needs.

Breeding Heat-Tolerant Cotton

By Laura McGinnis
February 19, 2008

Some plants like it hot. Cotton with superior heat tolerance can be a profitable crop for warmer climates, so Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists are identifying tolerance-specific genetic selection tools to assist breeding efforts.

Unfortunately, it's nearly impossible to...(complete article here).

Black-eyed Peas!

Mmm, mmm, black-eyed peas and cornbread and a glass of sweet iced tea!!

Team seeks to improve the black-eye pea

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. - A team of University of Virginia researchers is working to increase the drought- and disease-resistance of the black-eyed pea, a staple of the diets of roughly 200 million people in west and central Africa.

The U.Va. scientists are working with African growers to produce a tougher version of the legume, also known as the cowpea. About 80 percent of the...(complete article here).

Streaming Power

A whole new twist on hydro-electric power is calling.

Oceans of electricity beckon

Researchers eager to tap Gulf Stream to create power

By BRIAN SKOLOFF
Associated Press

DANIA BEACH, FLA. — Just 15 miles off Florida's coast, the world's most powerful sustained ocean current — the mighty Gulf Stream — rushes by at nearly 8.5 billion gallons per second. And it never stops.

To scientists, it represents a tantalizing possibility: a new, plentiful and uninterrupted source of clean energy.

Florida Atlantic University researchers say...(complete article here).

Harnessing the Sun -- For Hydrogen Production?

Why can't science mimic what plants, trees and algae do every day? Penn State is working on it.

Solar cell directly splits water for hydrogen

Monday, February 18, 2008

Boston, Mass. – Plants trees and algae do it. Even some bacteria and moss do it, but scientists have had a difficult time developing methods to turn sunlight into useful fuel. Now, Penn State researchers have a proof-of-concept device that can split water and produce recoverable hydrogen.

"This is a proof-of-concept system that is...(complete article here).

Agriculture Crucial

Complex issues -- definitely.


“Biodiversity is vital for human survival and livelihoods,”
FAO Deputy Director-General says

James G. Butler calls for “urgent remedial action” against hunger and rural poverty

18 February 2008, Rome – “Biodiversity is vital for human survival and livelihoods; we need to conserve it for future generations. At the same time, the unacceptable scale of hunger and rural poverty in our small planet calls for urgent remedial action,” FAO Deputy Director-General James G. Butler said today. He was addressing the opening session of the thirteenth meeting of the Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Advice of the Convention on Biological Diversity (18-22 February 2008).

Ultimately...(complete article here).

CO2 Absorbing Crystals

This technology sounds interesting until you read that it may double the cost of generating electricity.

New crystals can absorb carbon dioxide

UCLA researchers develop a substance that could capture the gas in smokestacks and tailpipes to help stem climate change.

By Alan Zarembo, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer
February 16, 2008

UCLA scientists have synthesized a new class of sponge-like crystals that can soak up carbon dioxide, the primary greenhouse gas in industrial emissions.The crystals --(complete article here).

Meal Frequency Affects Health

These studies showed negative health implications for not eating regularly.

Researchers Look at How Frequency of Meals May Affect Health

By Rosalie Marion Bliss
February 15, 2008

The health consequences of eating one large meal a day compared with eating three meals a day has not been established. Now two recently published journal articles are among the first to report the effects of meal skipping on key health outcomes, based on a study involving a group of normal-weight, middle-aged adults.

The study analyses were...(complete article here).

Green Ranchers and Agendas

There are a number of things in this article that clearly have an agenda behind them. Below, I will attempt to point out a few things that I take issue with.

Green Ranchers Buck Cattle Industry

By GARANCE BURKE
Associated Press Writer

CATHEYS VALLEY, Calif. (AP) -- Seth Nitschke spent his early 20s working at large feed lots before he returned home to start a business raising beef cattle fed on the grasses of the Sierra Nevada foothills.

Nitschke, 31, who herds heifers through pastures near Yosemite National Park, doesn't consider himself an environmental activist, though he's planting saplings to protect nearby streams and runs a light herd to let his pastures breathe.

Unlike some of his counterparts in...(complete article here).

First quote:

"But increasingly, ranchers are buying into the idea that they have a role to play in protecting open space, be it through preserving private wildlands or promoting sustainable grazing techniques"

Increasingly? Ranchers have always known that preserving open space and wildlands was critical to their survival. Yes, it has been a battle of surviving against the forces of nature, but one in which ranchers have learned to adapt and work with what nature throws at them. It seems to me that ranchers have defended open spaces from the very beginning -- why do you think there were range wars against farmers who were ripping the sod? It was certainly based in economics, but the result was that ranchers were protecting nature.

Second quote:

"This new generation of ranchers knows they have to work on the environmental part of it to survive," said Neil McDougald, a rancher at the University of California Cooperative Extension office in Madera County. "I'll guarantee you the guys driving cows today have a better environmental conscience than the ranchers who were riding around holding up stagecoaches."

Does this guy really think it was ranchers holding up stagecoaches? There seems to be confusion over who the bad guys really are or were.

Third quote:

"Last year, 37.5 million calves were born to U.S. beef producers - the smallest herd since 1951 - a decline the National Cattlemen's Beef Association attributes partially to land loss."

Beef demand has been rising. Beef producers have been meeting that demand. They have met it through better genetics producing more beef with fewer animals. The market determines the size of the cow herd. Yes, there has been loss of prime grazing land to hunting leases and housing developments, but the beef is still being produced -- just on fewer animals.

Africa to Feel Brunt of Higher Cereal Grains Prices

Weather events, bio-fuels, political unrest -- all contribute to shortages.

Cereal prices hit poor countries

The rising price of cereals such as wheat and maize is a "major global concern", the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) says.

Poor countries could see their cereal import bill rise by more than a third. Africa as a whole is expected to see an estimated 49% increase this year.

International wheat prices have...(complete article here).

2007 Crop Values Report

From the USDA:

2007 Crop Values Report

U.S. and Canadian Cattle and Hog Numbers

New Reports from USDA

Cattle Numbers

Hog Numbers

Biotech Expansion in Developing World

The use of GMO's will continue to grow. It will be interesting to watch the battle between natural pests of the unmodified crops and how they evolve to attack the modified organisms. This may be a Pandora's Box that will have ramifications for centuries. On the other hand, GMO's may provide the means to feed the world in a more economical -- and possibly environmentally friendly -- way. That seems like a strange statement to make, but if pesticide use can be reduced through GMO's, if drought resistance can bring food production to starving areas, if yields can be improved through greater plant efficiency, if low-tillage farming methods can be more widely implemented, then perhaps the impact to the environment will be lessened.

Developing Countries Grew More Biotech Crops in ’07

By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Published: February 14, 2008

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Genetically engineered agriculture is spreading worldwide, and its biggest growth in 2007 was in the developing world, according to a report released Wednesday.

Farmers in 12 developing countries planted biotech crops in 2007, and for the first time these countries outnumbered the industrialized countries where such crops are grown, according to...(complete article here).

Mutating, Evolving Swine Viruses

Continual vigilance is required to stay on top of viruses.

Combined viruses cause more deadly disease in pigs, researchers discover

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - A pig virus that exists worldwide has become more dangerous as the virus has mutated and then combined with other pathogens, according to Purdue University researchers.

It's not known why a virus that has been known to infect swine for almost 40 years in North America suddenly started causing disease in young pigs in 1991 and then began mutating into more deadly forms. Evidence from research being conducted at the Indiana Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory on the Purdue campus has indicated that...(complete article here).

World Tea Prices

I do my part to maintain demand. I love iced tea! (From the FAO.)


Tea prices to maintain upward trend in 2008

Output in Viet Nam increases 28 percent, another record crop in China

14 February 2008, Rome – In 2008, world tea prices are expected to maintain their upward trend as a result of a tight supply on the world market exacerbated by...(complete article here).

Hydrocarbon Reserves Out of This World

Maybe God knew we'd eventually deplete our usable hydrocarbon supply here on earth so He provide a reserve.

Titan's Surface Organics Surpass Oil Reserves on Earth

February 13, 2008

Saturn's orange moon Titan has hundreds of times more liquid hydrocarbons than all the known oil and natural gas reserves on Earth, according to new data from NASA's Cassini spacecraft. The hydrocarbons rain from the sky, collecting in vast deposits that form lakes and dunes. The new findings from...(complete article here).

Texas: Lone Star, Energy Star

Texas, the oil and gas capitol of the country -- interesting. Be sure and click on the link to the list of Energy Star buildings by state. A bunch of the Texas buildings are in Houston -- the Energy Capitol of Texas.

Texas green choices grow with Energy Star buildings

Release date: 02/13/2008

Contact Information: Dave Bary or Tressa Tillman at 214-665-2200 or r6press@epa.gov

(Dallas, Texas – February 13, 2008) A total of 356 top-performing Texas buildings earned the Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star for energy efficiency in 2007, leading to the most greenhouse gas reductions in the nation from Energy Star buildings.

The award-winning buildings save more than $107 million annually in...(complete article here).

LNG Capacity Expansion

LNG will be an important source of energy as we transition to new technology.

Natural gas to go global

Capacities for handling and moving commodity are growing

By TOM FOWLER
Copyright 2008 Houston Chronicle

Natural gas is poised to become a truly global commodity in the next two years because of growing capacity to liquefy it, transport it by sea and then turn it back into gas, according to a report set for release in Houston today.

Liquefaction capacity...(complete article here).

Projected Increase in World Cereal Grains Production

Well, duh! Do you think high prices have anything to do with increased production?


Significant increase in world cereal production forecast for 2008, but prices remain high

New FAO web portal tracks market trends

13 February 2008, Rome -- Early prospects point to the possibility of a significant increase in world cereal production in 2008, but international prices of most cereals remain at record high levels and some are still on the increase, FAO said today.

The forecast increase in production follows...(complete article here).

Long-Term Projections

From the USDA's Economic Research Service

USDA Agricultural Projections to 2017

Agricultural Baseline ProjectionTables

Agricultural Baseline Database

Gas Hydrates Potential as Energy Source

New energy source?

The World’s Largest Potential Energy Resource

Released: 2/7/2008 9:21:21 AM

Scientists are looking at the potential of gas hydrates as a critical new source of energy.

Gas hydrates are a naturally occurring, ice-like combination of natural gas and water found in the world's oceans and polar regions. Its natural gas accumulations are estimated to...(complete article here).

Chesapeake Bay Recovery

Population pressures continue to be one of the greatest challenges to important ecosystems like the Chesapeake Bay.

Many Factors Will Challenge the Recovery of the Chesapeake Bay

Released: 2/11/2008 9:49:28 AM

The Chesapeake Bay is affected by multiple factors, ranging from population growth to climate variability, which will challenge the recovery of this important ecosystem. These findings released today by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) are part of a comprehensive 5-year summary of the major factors affecting the health of the Bay ecosystem and the implications for its management.

Population growth and agricultural lands have...(complete article here).

Lower Electric Bills?

Some good news for consumers.

Texans likely to see lower electric bills this year

Added capacity, milder weather among factors shaping predictions


By TOM FOWLER
Copyright 2008 Houston Chronicle

A 42-inch natural gas pipeline in Weld County, Colo., could have as much to do with Texans' electric bills this year as the threat of hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico.

The steady rise in U.S. power prices already had been projected to slow down in 2008 thanks to...(complete article here).

Solar in Great Britain

The land of fog and gray skies goes solar...

The pros and cons of solar power

By Maggie Ayre
BBC Radio 4
Costing the Earth


Even in grey, overcast Britain, some householders are managing to use solar power to meet their energy needs.

But there are far more ambitious plans for Europe to import solar power from huge installations in North Africa.

Johannes Gleede...(complete article here).

Turner's Ranching Interests

Two million acres is a lot of land. I resent Ted Turner owning that much of this country -- I wish it was me.

Published Thursday February 7, 2008

Turner 'almost done' buying up ranchland

BY PAUL HAMMELWORLD-HERALD STAFF WRITER

The "Mouth of the South" might be mellowing, at least in terms of his appetite for ranchland in Nebraska.

CNN founder Ted Turner, the largest private landowner in Nebraska and the United States and the nation's largest bison rancher, said Wednesday that he is about done buying new ranches.

He said he would like to reach 2 million acres nationwide before he dies — about 40,000 acres more than he currently owns.

"I'm almost done. I've got...(complete article here).

Cell Grazing for Improved Pasture Management

Imagine the prairie covered by huge herds of grazing bison. They are constantly moving and constantly eating. Their population density is very high but they rarely graze the same ground for more than a couple of days before moving on. They efficiently utilize the plants that are available to them as they make their way across the grasslands.

It is under such conditions that most of our native grass species evolved. Those plants that thrived under such conditions are the ones that we are familiar with today. They are the species that best utilize our abundant sunlight, good soils and rainfall.

When grazing native or improved pastures, perhaps there would be wisdom in considering the historical grazing patterns under which the forages developed. One method of managing pastures that in many ways resembles the highly concentrated, ever-moving bison herds is cell grazing.

Cell grazing is a pasture management system that divides pastures into small cells that concentrate animals. The basic premise is to graze a cell intensively for a short period of time and then to move the animals to the next cell. Over the course of time, the animals would rotate through all of the paddocks (or cells) and begin the process again. Why is such a system of value?

Forage plants, such as grasses, go through various growth stages. During Stage I growth, a few tentative shoots produce leaves in order to gather the energy from sunshine so that the plant can convert carbon dioxide, water and nutrients from the soil into more plant. This is accomplished through photosynthesis. As the plant becomes better established and is producing enough energy to maintain itself, it moves into Stage II growth. During this second stage, there is slightly less nutritive value in the leaves but abundant production of new growth. This is usually the ideal stage for grazing the plant. If left uneaten, the plant will move into Stage III in which the energy is shifted away from foliage growth and into seed production.

The idea of cell grazing is centered on the growth stages of the grasses to be grazed. Proper timing of moves will enable the grass to produce at its maximum capacity (both for forage production and for energy value) for a longer period of time during the growing season. The timing of animal movement is based on the stage of the plant rather than the calendar. This means that more livestock can be grazed on the same amount of pasture.

There are critical factors that must be considered in a cell grazing system. These include water availability to the animals, the life cycles of the specific forages to be grazed, the cost and type of fencing and the time requirements for monitoring the pasture and moving the animals.

Cell grazing systems require more planning than most traditional grazing systems. Careful attention must be paid to stocking rates, fertilization, a period of rest for the plants, patterns of livestock movement, nutrient value of the forage and the impact of animal density on the particular forage varieties being managed. Mineral supplementation to offset any soil deficiencies may be necessary. It may also be necessary to invest in additional watering facilities as well as fencing. Most cell grazing systems utilize electric fencing as a low-cost and flexible method of dividing pastures.

Cell grazing provides the opportunity for better pasture quality due to the intensive management based on the forage life cycle. It also allows for better utilization of the available forage so that more pounds of beef can be produced on the same amount of land.

This is a great time to evaluate your grazing practices for the coming year. Whether a cell-grazing system is right for a particular operation is something that must be determined by each individual. Whatever the decision, the planning and evaluating process should be beneficial.

More on the Farm Bill

From Ag Observatory...

Veto threat seen lever for farm-subsidy reform

Reuters
February 6, 2008
By Charles Abbott

Thanks to a White House veto threat, Congress is on the path to an overall tightening of farm subsidy rules, said a staunch Senate advocate of payment limit reform on Tuesday.

Sen. Charles Grassley said...(completely article here).

China Moving to Lead Technology

This article isn't directly related to agriculture, conservation or energy -- but is indirectly related to all three. If China continues to have a stable political and economic climate it won't be long until the U.S. is taking second seat to their scientific and technological leadership. Interestingly, we trained most of the scientific leadership.

Study Shows China as World Technology Leader

Technology indicators show China ahead of the U.S. in technological standing

Atlanta (January 24, 2008) —A new study of worldwide technological competitiveness suggests China may soon rival the United States as the principal driver of the world’s economy – a position the U.S. has held since the end of World War II. If that happens, it will mark the first time in nearly a century that two nations have competed for leadership as equals.

The study’s indicators predict that China will soon pass the United States in...(complete article here).

Global Growth in Wind Energy

The wheels keep spinning...

Global Wind Energy Capacity Increases 27% in 2007

The Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) announced in mid-January that the global installed wind energy capacity exceeded 94 gigawatts (GW) in 2007. Companies installed 20 GW of new wind power last year, causing a...(complete article here).

Drought Tolerance Genes

This study could be important for all arid climates.

Israeli find could help plants adapt to climate change

JERUSALEM (AFP) - Israeli scientists said on Wednesday thay had identified genes that help plants weather harsh conditions, a discovery that could lead to the development of crops better able to endure climate change.

The study, carried out by scientists at Israel's Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, found that...(complete article here).

Cotton Breeding

From the ARS...

Breeding Better Cotton

People expect a lot from cotton.

Consumers want durable, comfortable fabrics. Producers want easy-to-manufacture textiles. And growers want hardy, thriving plants. Uniting these traits in...(complete article here).

New NAL Ag Thesaurus/Glossary

From the USDA...

NAL Publishes New Editions of Agricultural Thesaurus, Glossary

By Len Carey
February 5, 2008

The USDA National Agricultural Library (NAL) has published 2008 editions of its NAL Agricultural Thesaurus (NALT) and Glossary of Agricultural Terms in both Spanish and English. The update is...(complete article here).

Analysis of Farm Bill Situation

This analysis of the current Farm Bill political situation is from Ag Observatory which is produced by the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy.

Analysis from Washington

Dan Morgan
February 4, 2008

By Dan Morgan- Dan is a special correspondent of The Washington Post and a Transatlantic Fellow at the German Marshall Fund of the United States. “Analysis from Washington” is posted exclusively at FarmPolicy.com.

Democratic Sen. Kent Conrad (D-N.D.) was in a hurry to get millionaire businessman and former North Dakota Gov. Ed Schafer sworn into office Monday in time to bask in the pomp of sitting with the Cabinet at the State of the Union address. It wasn’t just the close family ties. (Schafer is Conrad’s former brother-in-law and Schafer’s dad once offered to help Conrad with his college costs.) Conrad’s helping hand—resulting in Schafer’s hurry-up Senate confirmation by “unanimous consent” rather than by roll-call vote following debate—was political and strategic.

Farm bloc lawmakers urgently need...(complete article here).

One thing not mentioned here is that the direct payments to farmers include such things as the Conservation Reserve Program which is a favorite of environmentalists.

Healthy Animals Quarterly Update

From the USDA:

New Issue of Healthy Animals Now Online

By Laura McGinnis
February 4, 2008

The Agricultural Research Service (ARS) today posted a new issue of Healthy Animals at:

http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/np/ha/han32.htm

This quarterly online newsletter compiles ARS news and expert resources on the health and well-being of agricultural livestock, poultry and fish...(click here for news release).

What is Killing Camping and Fishing?

I don't totally agree that 'videophilia' is the culprit in the declining contacts with nature. I believe there are other contibuting issues as well, such as workaholism, generational drift away from occupations that are in contact with nature, over-utilization (crowding) of existing parks and facilities (thus making it more difficult to schedule), absorption with sports leagues and associated activities, growth and number of theme parks, and probably many other things as well. Kids wouldn't be stuck in front of video games if their parents didn't allow it.

'Videophilia' is killing outdoors life, study says

Activities have declined by 18-25 percent since 1980s, experts found

WASHINGTON - As people spend more time communing with their televisions and computers, the impact is not just on their health, researchers say. Less time spent outdoors means less contact with nature and, eventually, less interest in conservation and parks.

Camping, fishing and per capita visits to...(complete article here).

Carbon Accounting in Ethanol Studies

Below is another interesting article from Iowa State. This one discusses how carbon is accounted for by researchers when studying the impact of something like corn-based ethanol production.

Is Corn Ethanol a Low-Carbon Fuel?

Bruce A. Babcock babcock@iastate.edu 515-294-6785
Ofir Rubin rubino@iastate.edu 515-294-5452
Hongli Feng hfeng@iastate.edu 515-294-6307

Reports of disappearing glaciers, shrinking arctic ice, rising sea levels, stronger hurricanes, and unprecedented European heat waves combined with an inexorable buildup in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels is increasing pressure on governments to respond with new greenhouse gas initiatives. California and other states are providing policy leadership in the United States.

Of particular interest to the biofuels industry is Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s January 2007 executive order that requires a 10 percent reduction in the carbon content of California’s transportation fuels by 2020. In contrast to federal renewable fuel standards, which mandate levels of use of biofuels, California’s fuel standard does not tell fuel suppliers (oil companies) how they should meet the new requirements. Alternative fuels will have to compete in terms of cost and carbon content. Only those fuels that can reduce carbon content at reasonable cost will be included in California fuel blends. Given that ethanol from corn comprises more than 90 percent of U.S. alternative fuels, a key determinant of the feasibility of meeting California’s ambitious goals is the extent to which corn ethanol reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

Accounting for Corn Ethanol’s Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Whether corn ethanol reduces net greenhouse gas emissions...(complete article here).

Feeding Distillers Grains -- Enough or Too Much Supply?

This is a very interesting article about feeding Dried Distillers Grains (DDG) -- particularly in beef production. One thing that I believe the article misses is the impact of expanding cellulosic ethanol production as that technology is implemented. The Distillers Grains products are primarily cellulose. It is likely that many corn-based ethanol producers will add a secondary cellulosic ethanol process to convert the cellulose in the co-products to ethanol. This will mean a reduction in the amount of Distillers Grains available to be fed.

Ultimately it will be a price decision. Our livestock and commodities markets are amazingly adept at finding a price level that will fit. The same will apply to the Distillers Grain market. Ethanol prices, the cost of converting DDG to ethanol, the feed market for the DDG, transportation costs, etc. will all be factors in determining where the DDG will be utilized. Will it sit in piles and rot? I think not.

Steady Supplies or Stockpiles? Dried Distillers Grains and U.S. Beef Production

Roxanne Clemens
rclemens@iastate.edu
515-294-8842

Rapid expansion in U.S. corn-based ethanol production has created concern that large surpluses of distillers grains will occur. Expected production levels are indeed high. Using a relatively conservative set of assumptions, a recent CARD study projects that the U.S. ethanol industry will produce nearly 15 billion gallons of ethanol and 40 million metric tons of distillers grains (dry matter basis) per year by 2011. Under a much more aggressive set of assumptions, the CARD study projects that ethanol production could reach nearly 30 billion gallons annually by 2016, generating more than 88 million metric tons of distillers grains per year. (See "Emerging Biofuels: Outlook of Effects on U.S. Grain, Oilseed, and Livestock Markets")

Some U.S. distillers grains are...(complete article here).

USDA Report on Farming and Livestock Operations 2007

From the USDA:

Number of Farms, Land in Farms, and Livestock Operations, 2007

Farm Bill Funding Politics

How do you fund all of the conservation and energy provisions in the new Farm Bill? Cut the part out that actually goes to farmers.

Bush Digs In On Farm Bill Funds As Harkin Urges A Deal

National Journal's CongressDaily
January 31, 2008
By Jerry Hagstrom


Senate Agriculture Chairman Harkin said today if the administration does not agree soon to revenue raisers to increase farm bill spending above the current baseline, Congress might have to pass the bill with the expectation that President Bush will veto it. "If an overwhelming majority of the Congress says close some loopholes to get us some funding, the president is going to have to bend on that or I guess we are headed for a veto," Harkin said. Noting that 79 senators voted for the Senate version in December, Harkin said a veto override is probable if the final version looks like the Senate bill.

Harkin noted that...(complete article here).

Why Biofuel Subsidies?

The research project referenced below from Iowa State University indicates that the likely objective of the U.S. Biofuels subsidies was to transfer payment to the farming sector. With the historic pressure to remove farm subsidies which were designed to ensure a secure and cheap food supply, this strategy makes sense. However, the consequences of the strategy in its impact on the livestock feeding sector somewhat negates the gains in the farming sector.

Implied Objectives of U.S. Biofuel Subsidies

Ofir D. Rubin, Miguel Carriquiry, Dermot J. HayesFebruary 2008 [08-WP 459]

Biofuel subsidies in the United States have been justified on the following grounds: energy independence, a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, improvements in rural development related to biofuel plants, and farm income support. The 2007 energy act emphasizes the first two objectives. In this study, we quantify the costs and benefits that different biofuels provide.

We consider...(complete article here) [Be sure to go to the .pdf of the entire article]