Two months into the New Year....

And it already seems like 2004 was some time ago. But we reflect back in this issue on the major events of 2004 and offer them as a background to their impact on what we do. We've relied on the expertise of the Doane economists to provide this perspective. There are probably other events that may relate more to your specific industry or segment within agriculture, but we chose to keep this discussion very broad.

Some other lists have reached my desk. In addition to our list in this issue, here are some other key industry events, compiled by NAFB and Red River Farm Network, that will have impact on into 2005 and beyond.

* Monsanto's decision to suspend its research of Roundup Ready wheat.

* The failed attempt of Rabobank to purchase Farm Credit Services.

* Syngenta's acquisition of Golden Harvest and Garst seed companies, plus the formation of Monsanto's American Seeds Inc. and Syngenta's Greenleaf Genetics promise renewed and elevated competition among the "Big 3" seed players (including DuPont/Pioneer).

* Beef checkoff goes before the U.S. Supreme Court.

* Ag-friendly Democrats defeated in November elections.

* American Jobs Creation Act passed--giving favorable tax treatment for farm-based renewable energy.