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Transcript of NCGA 2007 Annual Report
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INTRODUCTION
National Corn Growers Association Annual Report 2007 2
The National Corn Growers Association fought
the good fight in 2007, standing up for corn
growers who themselves rose to meet the
challenges of a marketplace that saw record
demand for corn.
Everyone said corn growers would need to
expand acres in response to this record demand
fueled by the expanding ethanol sector and a
strong global appetite for U.S. corn. NCGA
predicted that corn producers would respond
and did they everplanting some 93.6 million
acres of corn, the most since 1944. With harvest
complete, growers brought in a bin-busting
crop, the largest in history. This more than met
demand: Grain stocks actually increased, easing
concerns raised by the many industries thatdepend on corn.
In this annual report, we review our successes
in fighting for the corn and ethanol industries,
and our achievements in other areas, from the
farm bill to passage of the Water Resources
Development Act to advancing the corn genome
to defending global markets.
2007 was a success on many fronts, yet NCGA
knows that it must stay in the ring on behalf of
its 32,400 members. NCGA and its grower-led
action teams, committees and working groups
are well prepared for the next round and have
their eye on the prize: Helping ensure success
for corn growers and defending them against
dubious headline seekers whose soundbites are
more noise than fact.
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PRESIDENTS MESSAGE
3
Corn growers had much to
celebrate in 2007, a year of high
yields on the farm and high-fives
on Capitol Hill for getting our
voices heard. We responded to
market demands with a record
crop, setting the stage for record
net-farm income. Maybe our good
fortune is the reason we were
attacked by pests far worse than corn rootworm.
When you think about it, this is understandable.
Punches get thrown at leaders, not followers.
Ethanol provides a good example here. Supporters
of our work have been plentiful and we have been
very successful. Ethanol production jumped, corn
producers responded and once again our customersdemands for supply were met.
Even with support in the trenches to this very
day, instead of cheers for expanding ethanol
production, improving the environment, bringing
investment to rural communities, reducing this
countrys dependence on petroleum and meeting
global demands, we continue to face the same
criticismalthough it is a smaller group than
previously experienced.
Fortunately, corn producersthrough state
associations, checkoff boards, partner organizations
and NCGAfought back.
You worked with the media, wrote letters and
opinion pieces and supported good research.
You kept up the pressure on Capitol Hill and
challenged those who repeated mistruths. You
pointed out the absurdities leveled at corn
producers, striving to remind folks why theethanol industry was developed in the first place.
NCGAs growers led the way in promoting an
increased renewable fuel standard to promote
energy security and a cleaner environment.
Our vision of 15 billion bushels of corn and
15 billion gallons of ethanol by 2015 is getting
closer each year.
Also in Washington, NCGA was deeply involved in
discussions on the new farm bill, setting the stage for
the future. A major success was getting our revenue
counter cyclical program, an innovative program
designed to help both growers and taxpayers by
saving money and targeting assistance, adopted in
key legislative text. Our success was the result of a
major change in thinking on the Hill, and we
should be proud of our work and thankful to
members of Congress who supported change.
All of you who journeyed to Washington or wrote
letters should also be commended. Change is not
easy, but the future is brighter for it.
Lastly, I must thank you all for your great work on
WRDA, the Water Resources Development Act. Your
persistence helped get it passed by Congress twice
in 2007no small accomplishment. The need for
new locks and dams and other waterway infrastructure
is too critical to ever throw in the towel.
In the end, it was a great and challenging year, and
Im proud to have helped lead the organization
on these important issues.
We should remember, though, that our work is
never done. We must continue to tell our story, to
remain positive and keep our mission, To create
and increase opportunities for corn growers,
clearly and sharply in focus. You are part of a
strong, grassroots organization. You should be
proud of your success and always looking forward
to the future.
Sincerely,
Ken McCauley
President (2007)
Our corner met challenges head o
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National Corn Growers Association Annual Report 2007 4
making 2007 a championship year.
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NCGAs vision on the future of corn
ethanol is unwavering. There were some
challenges in 2007, but nothing that
will detract us from our 15x15x15 goal:
Producing 15 billion bushels of corn
and 15 billion gallons of corn ethanol by 2015.
We know we can achieve this without affecting
other markets. This vision is achievable, sustainable
and defendable.
NCGA and our members support policy that backs
this vision. The federal energy legislation that was
signed into law in 2007 contains a renewable fuels
standard (RFS) that perfectly matches our vision
and requires that 15 billion gallons of ethanol come
from corn by 2015 and 36 billion gallons total
(21 billion from cellulose sources) by 2022. NCGA
helped ensure this legislations passage, poundinga lot of pavement on the Hill in the process.
When it comes to using a food crop such as corn
to make fuel, NCGA has worked tirelessly to
debunk misinformation spread intentionally by
some and unknowingly by others. Staying positive
and making available facts that demonstrate the
many benefits of corn ethanoland the truth
about the so-called food versus fuel issuewere
key to defending the industry.
In addition to countless interviews with the mediaaround the world and testimony before Congress,
NCGA produced white papers, brochures and
other communications for the general public and
to arm our members and allies with the truth.
When NCGA sees an editorial with the same, tired
arguments, we view it as an opportunity to speak
with the author and tell the full story. Our hard
work seemed to pay off. As the year progressed the
focus turned towards other itemslike high energy
prices and supply and demandthat have a greater
impact on food prices than the price of corn.
For the ethanol coproduct distillers dried grains
(DDGS), NCGA collaborated with groups to
develop and release standard recommended
methods to analyze its nutrient value. This is
important for distillers grains buyers and sellers
who, by following the testing standards, are more
likely to come up with the same values for crude
protein, fat, fiber and moisture. We also reached
out to the livestock industry, including becoming
a leader on a consortium organized by the National
Pork Board. The aim is to pool research dollars to
help swine better utilize ethanol coproducts.
NCGA believes it is important to keep farmers
involved on the ownership side of the renewable
fuels industry. With
more outside money
moving into the Corn
Belt, NCGA evaluated
what it can do to help
farmers keep their foot
in the door. One of the
answers may be NCGAs
renewable energy
investment fund, whichis still under development.
The fund will invest in a
whole host of renewable
energy technologies
when it is launched.
ROUND
1
As interest in DDGS grew, NCGA and others released the final recommendations for standard test methods for
analysis of DDGS. The guidelines were officially released at the RFA conference Feb. 21, and NCGA heavily
promoted the guidelines to the agriculture media at Commodity Classic in Tampa, Fla. The report marked the
culmination of a yearlong laboratory effort to determine the test methods that have the greatest efficacy and
applicability for analysis of moisture, crude protein, crude fat and crude fiber. NCGA believes widespread
voluntary adoption of recommended test methods will reduce market confusion and add more structure
to the DDGS marketplace.
uce Noel
slie, MI Chairman,
hanol Committee
ell look back at 2007 as a
mendous year of growth
r the ethanol industry
d remember the fact that
rn producers rose to the
allenge to meet all demands.
hile we produced a record
op to meet food, feed and
el needs and provided a
e cushion heading into
08, well also remember
w corn growers and NCGA
ponded to attacks on the
hanol and corn industries.
m proud of the work we
ve done and our success in
owing the ethanol industry.
ETHANOL & COPRODUCTS
A strong counterpunc
5
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For the third year in a row, the percentage
of U.S. corn acres planted to biotech
hybrids exceeded the amount planted to
non-biotech hybrids. More and more
growers recognize the value of this
technology, and NCGA fully supports them
especially because biotech hybrids can increase
yields, reduce pesticide and herbicide needs
and improve the bottom line. Its a tremendous
combination.
When it was time to plant the 2007 crop, NCGA
felt it was important to oppose the release of
Agrisure RW (MIR 604) technology because it did
not yet have approvals in most export markets,
specifically Japan. When Syngenta (the producer
of this particular event) decided to go ahead and
release the technology, NCGA worked with thecompany and the grain trade to develop a plan to
make sure it would not be disruptive to the export
market come harvest time.
NCGA discussed the issue with Japanese buyers
and worked continuously to educate growers,
alerting them to their need to develop marketing
plans to ensure this grain stayed out of unapproved
markets. Fortunately, Japanese approval came just
before harvest, yet many in the market are still
asking that the grain be properly channeled.
Now that it has Japanese approvals, Agrisure RW(MIR 604) technology will be part of the Market
Choices program in 2008. Market Choices alerts
farmers that grain from these traits are approved
in many export markets, but still lack European
Union approval, and must be channeled away
from facilities that serve the EU.
NCGA knows that a vast majority of growers are
complying with the Insect Resistant Management
(IRM) requirements as mandated by the
Environmental Protection Agency. However, since
IRM is important for growers in order to maintain
the use of new technologies, NCGA worked with
technology companies to develop new ways to
make sure farmers are maintaining compliance
levels. As part of these efforts, NCGA will launch
a new communications plan to remind growers
they are obligated to plant a refuge when planting
Bt hybrids. You can look for Respect the Refuge
materials in 2008.
Corn growers understand that with technology
comes responsibility. When it comes to
communications, when it comes to market plans,when it comes to trade partners, NCGA works
hard to help growers achieve maximum production
and maximum success.
ROUND
2
Martin BarbreCarmi, IL Chairman,
Biotech Working Grou
Insect Resistant Mana
(IRM) requirements a
important for all corn
to follow. Although h
prices can tempt grow
sway from IRM requi
we know if they aren
followed we run the
of losing the technol
altogether. Thats wh
worked with technol
providers and the Ag
Biotechnology Stewa
Technical Committee
develop a plan that w
further raise awarene
refuge requirements
growers. The Biotech
Group also works wit
NCGA Trade Team to
challenging the Europ
Unions lagging appro
process for biotech h
We continue to mon
World Trade Organiza
BIOTECHNOLOGY
National Corn Growers Association Annual Report 2007 6
In 2007, the U.S. Department of Agriculture estimated that corn growers planted 73 percent, or nearly
68 million acres, of their acres with biotech seed varieties, up 12 percent from 2006.
NCGA continues to work with other commodity groups and researchers to develop tools for weed resistance
management. Growers need to properly handle all herbicide technology to ensure weeds do not develop
glyphosate resistance. Growers can learn more about weed resistance management at NCGA.com
The Know Before You Grow program is an important resource for growers, helping to keep up with the
regulatory approval status on all available biotech traits. This helps growers select and plant hybrids with the
full knowledge of whether the number is conventional, approved for export to Japan, the European Union
or not yet approved for EU export. It is available at NCGA.com.
s a winning strategy.
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NCGA was involved in several Congressional and Surface Transportation Board (STB) hearings to discuss rail
and other transportation issues. To help keep corn grower concerns on the front burner, NCGA was successful
in getting one of its board members, Daryl Haack, on the Rail Energy Transportation Advisory Committee,
which operates within STB.
Meetings with the majority of the Class I railroads allowed NCGA to discuss everything from corn to ethanol.
Shipping ethanol is creating some interesting challenges that corn growers need to monitor. Class I railroad
BNSF is starting an advisory group on agriculture commodities, and NCGA will have an active role.
NCGA state organizations have developed outstanding relationships with livestock producers and groups in
individual states. These important efforts are expanding nationally, as well, as NCGA participates in discussions
with national groups involved in the livestock and poultry, renewable energy and feed industries.
Chaseey, SD Chairman,
uction & Stewardship
on Team
was an exciting year,
the long-journeyed but
essful passage of the
er Resources Development
We also continue to be
lved in the livestock arena,
ting with environmental
es and concentrated
mal feeding operations
FO) regulations. A meeting
livestock producers in
l focused on corn supplies,
nol and distillers grains.
important to counter
e of the mistruths and
onceptions in these areas
hile continuing to increase
ortunities for farmers
ugh livestock production.
PRODUCTION & STEWARDSHIP
7
At a time of high production and high
visibility, NCGAs Production and
Stewardship Action Team was braced for
action when it came to sustainability,
transportation and other key challenges
and they were scoring knockouts.
Example: For nearly two decades, NCGAs
grassroots have tenaciously battled for lock and
dam modernization on the Upper Mississippi and
Illinois rivers. Disappointment when Congress
ran out of time in late 2006 turned to satisfaction
when Congress passed the Water Resources
Development Act (WRDA) in 2007and easily
overrode a veto.
Over the years, NCGA worked with many groups
and coalitions to keep this bill on the frontburner. Many members of Congress had personal
contact with corn growers, and that made a
difference. Now the focus becomes securing
funding to make sure WRDA is implemented in
the bipartisan spirit in which it was passed.
Railroad issues were also front and center, with
NCGA involved in Congressional and Surface
Transportation Board (STB) hearings, and holding
meetings with the majority of Class I railroads.
NCGA focused on the need for rail capacity
improvements, the high cost of shipping grainsand needed transparency in fuel surcharges.
NCGA helped shape the conservation title in the
farm bill, making sure the outcome would be
workable and, hopefully, more simplified for
growers. The commitment by corn growers to
conservation and environmental issues is
unwavering. In fact, participating in projects with
the Agriculture Drainage Management Coalition
will lead to better ways to control runoff and
retain more water on fields. NCGA is also
involved with the Conservation Technology
Information Center, where providing reliable,
profitable solutions to improve the relationship
between agriculture and the environment are
researched and analyzed.
Making the Clean Water Act understandable
was the focus of a total maximum daily load
(TMDL) desktop guide. The guide, developed in
conjunction with the Environmental Protection
Agency, simplifies the Act and encourages
farmers to become involved.
Proposed changes to the Clean Water Actto
remove the term navigable waterstookNCGA to the Hill for office visits. Removing those
two words would put agricultural production
practices at risk and create additional economic
burdens on corn producers. In essence, removing
those two words would expand the scope of areas
and activities covered by the Act to virtually all
wet areas in the United States.
ROUND
3
Corn producers a
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In 2007, there was no greater evidence of
NCGAs forward-looking approach as our
organizations position on farm policy,
developing ideas that meet the needs of
21st-century growers and promoting ways
to better protect farmers as well as the interests of
taxpayers. We fought hard for our proposals as the
2007 farm bill debate heated upand will go the
distance no matter how many rounds it takes.
NCGAs National Farm Security Act was designed
to provide for a revenue-based program focused
on a more effective safety net for producers while
not costing the government additional dollars. It
would assist producers in areas of low yields and
those with low individual crop yield, compensate
producers when markets experience steep declines
and avoid inequities when low prices wereaccompanied by high crop yields. In its proposed
reform to the commodity title, NCGA looked to
integrate this Revenue Counter Cyclical Payment
(RCCP) program with federal crop insurance,
which would reduce crop insurance premiums
and offer farmers higher levels of coverage at
a lower cost.
The RCCP was developed after more than three years
of gathering ideas, options and analysis. It is a
fundamental change in thinking and would replace
more costly programs that have numerous holes in
coverage. In short, its better for farmers and taxpayers.
More than a dozen trips to Capitol Hill to testify
and support NCGAs proposals resulted in the House
farm bill including an RCCPfor the first time.
This significant change in thinking was due largely
to NCGAs efforts. Although still in flux at the end
of the fiscal year, the Senate bill included an optional
RCCP, also for the first time. These are significant
accomplishments, especially when there were
considerable odds against such proposed reforms.
In addition to success in incorporating ideas of
reform developed by corn growers into farmbill proposals, NCGA was able to use the same
grassroots support to defeat measures that would
have been harmful to or not in the best interest
of producers.
Simply put, NCGA has fought and will continue
to fight for a farm bill that will strengthen the
agricultural safety net, reduce federal budget
deficits and create job and growth opportunities
for rural America.
ROUND
4
Steve PiggBushnell, IL Chairman
Public Policy Action Tea
Our major focus, by fa
year was the farm bill
of the complex comp
and nuances that go a
it. We have been succ
in moving the bar and
incorporating reform
several versions and w
continue fighting for
as the bill progresses.
has been an incredible
agriculture, and the in
is more dynamic than
decade ago. This mak
reforming crop safety
and risk management
important to current a
future corn growers.
FARM & RURAL DEVELOPMENT
National Corn Growers Association Annual Report 2007 8
NCGA supports a state-based revenue protection program so producers would have access to higher levels of
farm level crop insurance coverage at a lower cost. In an era of increased demand for corn and other feed
grains, revenue-based programs target support more efficiently than current programs.
Numerous visits to Capitol Hill by NCGA members and staff helped turn the tide and build support for NCGAs
proposals, many of which were adopted in drafts throughout several components of the farm bill.
repared to go the distance.
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The future of corn growing is one of
reduced fertilizer use, increased drought
tolerance, increased ethanol production,
improved nutritional quality and built-in
insect and disease tolerance. The future
of corn, therefore, is written in the plants genetic
code. Understanding that code, and how to use
that knowledge, requires research if we are ever
to take advantage of all the inherent possibilities
of corn.
NCGA supports this important research, with the
ultimate goal to identify all the genes and biological
mechanisms in the corn plant that can have a
major impact on how corn is grown and used.
This is why NCGA supported genome research a
decade ago, helping create the National Plant
Genome Initiative in 1998. The corn genome
sequence is now more than two-thirds complete,
and has led to the kind of data corn researchers
need to develop new technologies, including
drought-tolerant and nitrogen-efficient corn.
It is important to create a pipeline between basic
research, like sequencing the corn genome, and
product development. NCGA supports efforts to
promote a phenotypic library, a guide to how
each genes characteristics are expressed in the
corn plant, which can help achieve this goal.
A key, of course, is funding, which is why NCGA
fought to strengthen the research title in the 2007
farm bill and raise research dollars through the
National Plant Genome Initiative. Its also vital to
keep funding focused on key agriculture crops.
Other potential lies within corn processing
technologies. NCGA supports more research on
advanced corn processing, which could allow corn
to be processed into new, industrial products.
NCGA is developing technologies to make chemicals
from corn, including petroleum-replacing esters,
amines, glycoethers and epoxides.
NCGA hailed the first shipments of a corn-based
polymer, Bio-PDO, from a joint venture between
DuPont and Tate & Lyle in Tennessee. Meanwhile,
Metabolix and ADM are building a commercial
facility in Iowa to manufacture corn-based Natural
Plastic beginning in 2008 and NatureWorks LLC
in Nebraska has seen great success marketing
corn-based PLA. All of these products expand the
use of corn and serve as raw materials for a varietyof products, many of which replace comparable
petroleum-based products.
ROUND
5
NCGA partners with researchers looking for ways to reduce aflatoxin in corn. The Southeast Regional Aflatoxin
Test program is a multi-organization, multi-state evaluation of the most promising germplasm from several
research groups. Some genetic strains show lower levels of contaminationbut the most promising research
areas include inoculating corn with a strain of aflatoxin that does not produce harmful toxins.
NCGA is working with the Department of Energy and Land Grant institutions to develop the next generation
of biobased products. These products serve the public by offering petrochemical replacements, reduced
greenhouse gasses and diverse revenue streams for the growing ethanol industry.
In 2008, sequencing of the corn genome will be complete. This marks a major milestone in understanding corn
genetics and accelerating new products for producers and consumers. NCGAs goal is to keep this momentum
going by encouraging robust research programs aimed at understanding the function of all genes in corn,
unlocking new potential for what has become the primary domestic food, feed and fuel crop.
m Johnsond, IA Chairwoman,
arch & Business
elopment Action Team
are committed and diligent
ur work, cooperating with
ic and private researchers
nd ways to further
ance corn production
corn products. Whether
a search for aflatoxin
tant hybrids, petroleum
acements or uncovering
secrets of the corn
ome, research remains
ntegral component in
future of our industry.
RESEARCH & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
9
In this fight, there
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Trade issues directly affect many corn
growers priorities. Knowing this, NCGA
makes certain corn growers are in the
ring when policymakers discuss not only
global trade, but our trade interests and
their implications for biotechnology, farm policy,
transportation and technical barriers to trade.
NCGAs Joint Trade Policy A-Team, which includes
representatives from the U.S. Grains Council, works
to increase congressional support for our trade
agenda and educate growers about export markets.
In 2007, Canada and Brazil began challenges at the
World Trade Organization, alleging that the United
States had exceeded limits for trade-distorting
subsidies. Initially, Canada included a serious
prejudice claim specifically against corn. NCGAdisagreed with this claim and we were pleased
that our northern neighbor re-evaluated that part
of the claim. Our position is clear: The United
States is in compliance with our WTO obligations.
Although Brazil filed its request separately from
Canada, the two cases will likely be combined.
While the cases seem to have been brought to
influence the U.S.s final agricultural offer in the
ongoing Doha Round of WTO negotiations or
the 2007 farm bill, it is doubtful that they will
seriously impact either.
NCGA continues monitoring the WTO Doha
Round of trade talks. We remain supportive of
continued efforts within the Round to achieve an
important net gain for American farmers and
ranchers. The current U.S. negotiating position
reflects a $13 billion to $17 billion range on
spending for domestic support. Work remains on
issues such as the treatment of Sensitive Products,
Special Products and the design of a Special
Safeguard Mechanism.
Further, NCGA has always supported free trade
agreements with individual nations and entire
geographic regions. Corn growers and NCGA
supported the Peru Free Trade Agreement. Removing
trade barriers between the United States and Peru
will create new export opportunities for corn
growers by allowing the United States to compete
on a level playing field with Perus other trading
partners. During the 2005-06 marketing year, the
United States exported 250,000 metric tons of
corn to Peru. The trade agreement reduces tariffs
on United States corn and phases them out
completely over 12 years. It also opens the market
for distillers dried grains, as this value-added productfaces no tariffs.
ROUND
6
TRADE
National Corn Growers Association Annual Report 2007 10
no neutral corner.
Bob BowmanDeWitt, IA Chairman,
Joint Trade Policy Actio
In fiscal 2007, the Tra
Public Policy Action Te
worked together to e
issues surrounding tra
U.S. farm bill policy. Q
simply, we do not tak
trade obligations light
are committed to sup
farm policy that is firs
foremost good for co
growers, but also con
to decrease the likelih
a costly legal challeng
the WTO.
Final approval of a Free Trade Agreement with Peru benefits U.S. corn growers directly through bulk corn
exports and indirectly through increased meat exports. In fact, increased meat exports should increase the
value of corn by one half-cent per bushel, while direct corn exports should increase the value 1 cent per bushel.
Many trade policy goals are still on the table, including agreements with Colombia, Panama and Korea. NCGA
will continue its support for these bilateral agreements, which provide opportunities through increased exports
of bulk corn, meat, distillers dried grains and other value-added corn products.
NCGA continues to monitor the WTO case being brought by Canada and Brazil against U.S. commodities, and
stress that we believe the United States to be in full compliance with its trade commitments.
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In 2007, NCGA celebrated five decades
of creating markets and expanding
opportunities for its growers, and focused
on expanding membership for the dynamic
grassroots organization. That growth,
from a few hundred growers in nine Midwestern
states to a vibrant association of more than
32,000 corn producers in 48 states and Canada,
continues today. In 2007, NCGA welcomed the
Alabama Wheat and Feed Grains Commission as
an affiliated checkoff organization.
NCGA has recognized several individuals who were
champs when it came to bringing new growers
on board. The tireless efforts of Richard Harer of
Ohio, Gayle Bergstrom of Minnesota and Barbara
Fulcher-Reynolds of Kentucky were recognized at
Commodity Classic in Tampa, Fla. All were namedto the Recruiter Hall of Fame for their efforts in
growing NCGA and spreading its message to
hundreds of growers.
To keep growing, NCGA launched its most
aggressive membership drive ever during its 50th
anniversary year. Growers, recruiters and state
affiliate recruiters each had the opportunity to win
one years use of an E-85 flexible fuel vehicle
along with other incentives. Winners will be
announced in early 2008. Grants were offered
to state organizations to help with recruiting
functions. NCGAs membership program is
sponsored by the seed brands of Syngenta Seeds
and Agrisure traits.
The Grower Resource & Association Information
Network System (GRAINS), a major undertaking
that advances the online capabilities and services
of NCGA for its members, is nearing completion.
GRAINS is an all encompassing module that will
allow members to take care of their memberships,
register for meetings and other activities all
online, while state associations can use it as a
central depository to share membership materials
and coordinate meetings.
ROUND
7
MEMBERSHIP
11
NCGAs 50th anniversary quilt was displayed at meetings throughout the year and quickly became a popular
attraction. Representing all things corn and bordered by each state organization, the quilt is displayed at
NCGAs national headquarters in St. Louis. A few surprise showings may occur throughout 2008, including at
the 2008 Commodity Classic, where it will return due to popular demand.
The grassroots heritage that NCGA was founded upon is as evident today as it was 50 years ago. Membership
is growing, the association continuously evolves and it holds true to founder Walter Goeppingers notion that
NCGA should further the use of corn through research, market development and promotion.
NCGA told the powerful story of its members to the media in the form of letters, opinion pieces, radio broadcasts,
news items, publications and white papers. We also continued to proudly promote Americas Heartland, a
magazine-style television program airing on public television stations and RFD-TV. Sponsored by Monsanto and
the American Farm Bureau, this worthwhile programming tells the stories of Americas agriculture producers.
A tough combination to bea
tt Gibsonocco, IN Chairman,
wer Services Action Team
a number of years, NCGA
posted annual membership
s above the association
munitys average. This
tical since membership
e lifeblood upon which
farmer-led organization
founded, and a strong
sroots is what makes corn
wers successful in each
e and on Capitol Hill.
rong membership base
ps NCGA ahead of the
k. We wont rest on
aurels. Instead, we will
inue to adapt as
culture changes and
p moving forward.
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ALLOCATION OF EXPENSES
National Corn Growers Association Annual Report 2007 12
Through state checkoff programs, corn
growers are investing in themselves to
maximize market opportunities and
protect their future. NCGA recognizes
the importance of its role as a steward
of your checkoff dollars and is
unwavering in its efforts to ensure that growers
get the best return possible on their investment.
We understand our responsibility in delivering
value for corn growers and carefully leverage your
contributions. NCGAs checkoff-funded initiatives
have stimulated significant advancements in
ethanol, biotechnology, farm and rural development,
research and business development, production
and stewardship and trade.
The future of the corn industry depends on yourcontinued support of the checkoff program. As
NCGA continues to grow, we will never lose sight
of the fact that our strength comes from investing
your checkoff contributions wisely.
ROUND
8
TOTAL REVENUE FY 2007
Program Services
18%
82%
Administration
ALLOCATION OF PROGRAMEXPENSES, FY 2007
State Regulations/Meetings 1%
Trade 3%
Resolutions/Policy/Corn Congress 5%
NCGA Commodity Classic 6%
Biotech Working Group 7%
Ethanol 7%
Corn Board & Funding 10%
Public Policy 10%
Research & BusinessDevelopment 16%
Grower Services 14%
Production & Stewardship 12%
Communications 10%
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SOURCES OF REVENUE
Continuing to fight the good fight
13
State checkoff programs provide a majority of the funding that allows NCGA to stay in the ring, delivering
results for corn growers. It is important, though, to acknowledge the agribusiness and industry partners in
our corner. These groups provide generous support for programs and events that are valuable to all growers.
Their backing helps NCGA stay focused on the mission at handcreating and increasing opportunities
for corn growers.
NCGA and its members would like to express our appreciation to all our agribusiness and industry
partners. These organizations and individuals allowed the National Corn Yield Contest, membership
programs, leadership training activities, Commodity Classic and other programs to triumph once again.
Their investments, which go well beyond financial support, helped make 2007 a rousing success.
SOURCES OF REVENUE FY 2007 BUDGET
Industry 11%
Corn Yield Contest 7%
Membership 7%
Commodity Classic 3%
Interest 1%
Government Grants 2%
Checkoff Revenue 69%
In 2007, corn growers drew all the attention of a championship bout.
Amid the criticisms and concerns lobbed from several corners, growers
stayed on message, defending ethanol and corn production, and delivered
a crop that not only met demand but built stocks, too.
At the same time, corn growers saw success in Washington, where they
changed attitudes about the farm bill and helped pass the Water Resources
Development Act. Favorable energy legislation followed. Corn grower
visits to our nations capital and an active communications campaign
are a powerful one-two grassroots punch.
Future success, however, is not assured, which is why NCGAs grower leaders continue their
commitment and hard work. With their direction and your continued investment, we will
be prepared for whatever lies ahead, helping ensure golden opportunities for every grower.
Rick Tolman
NCGA CEO
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Respondingto the challenge.
National Headquarters 632 Cepi Drive Chesterfield, MO 63005 636.733.9004Washington, D.C. Office 122 C St. NW, #510 Washington, DC 20001 202.628.7001
The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) is the largestnational nonprofit organization representing the interests of U.S.corn growers. Through the checkoff investments of corn producersnationwide and the commitment of dedicated grower leaders, NCGAis redefining the role of corn in the worlds future through research,market development, public policy, production and education.
You can join more than 32,000 corn growers involved in NCGA byconnecting with one of the 48 state corn organizations across the nation.With your help, we can continue the remarkable achievements of Americascorn industryand reenergize the future for U.S. corn growers.
Visit www.ncga.com for more details and updates on the corn industry.
2008 National Corn Growers Association