Wednesday April 22 Ag News - Pillen helps Facilitate Wildfire Supply Donations - Tracking Wildfire Recovery - Gibbon Packing Resumes Operations - Early Registration IFBF Economic Summit - and more!

Pillen Issues New Order to Aid Wildfire Supply Deliveries

To help facilitate additional deliveries of feed and supplies to ranchers in areas destroyed by recent wildfires, Governor Jim Pillen is re-issuing an executive order for commercial motor carriers.  The order relaxes hours of service, load and weight limits, as well as other regulations. It will expire May 14.



NEW WEBSITE HELPS LANDOWNERS TRACK WILDFIRE RECOVERY, VIEW HISTORY

Following historic wildfires that have burned nearly one million acres of Nebraska grazing lands this spring, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln has launched a new online hub, https://wildfire.unl.edu, that integrates science, mapping and field-based documentation in one place.

The resource — the first of its kind focused on working grasslands — is designed to track and monitor long-term recovery while supporting farmers, ranchers and land managers as they restore Nebraska’s native grasslands.

Built through the integration of Nebraska Extension and university research programs, the platform combines scientific data, decision-support tools and applied guidance to help producers navigate recovery following wildfire.

“Wildfire recovery unfolds over years, not months,” said Dirac Twidwell, rangeland ecologist at Nebraska. “What we’ve built here is not just a map of fires — it’s a system that helps people understand recovery, anticipate change and respond with better information.”

The hub is informed by decades of research and monitoring.

Twidwell’s lab has studied and cataloged more than 1,300 wildfires across the Great Plains since 1985, building one of the most comprehensive datasets on wildfire and recovery in the region. That work now powers the platform’s interactive tools, allowing users to explore wildfire history and recovery patterns over time.

“Each mapped polygon represents a wildfire dating back to 1985,” Twidwell said. “That long-term record lets us see how grasslands actually recover — across different weather patterns, management decisions and landscapes — and that perspective is critical for making sound decisions today.”

Through the platform, users can:
> Explore where and when wildfires have occurred across Nebraska since 1985;
> View wildfire perimeters and details such as year, size and fire name;
> Analyze how vegetation responds before and after wildfire using time-based graphs;
> Compare current conditions to past wildfire patterns;
> Identify similar past wildfire events to inform recovery decisions.

The tool integrates long-term wildfire records with remotely sensed vegetation data, allowing users to evaluate how grasslands recover over time. Vegetation response is displayed through graphs comparing pre- and post-wildfire conditions, helping producers assess recovery timelines and variability.

The platform goes beyond visualization of past fires, integrating decades of Nebraska research into practical guidance for rangeland, livestock, crop and water systems, connecting science directly to management decisions. It also links users to Nebraska Extension educators and partner networks, making it easier to access technical expertise, find local contacts and identify upcoming field days and workshops.

The initiative includes a new post-wildfire monitoring approach that connects research expectations with landowner engagement while coordinating future research efforts to improve recovery outcomes across the state.

The data behind the platform draws from multiple national and research-backed sources, including the Rangeland Analysis Platform for vegetation data, the Monitoring Trends in Burn Severity database for historical wildfire perimeters and the National Interagency Fire Center for recent fire data.

University research has also shown an increase in large wildfires across Nebraska and the Great Plains, underscoring the need for long-term recovery planning and improved decision-support systems.



Gibbon Packing resumes operations after well collapse

Gibbon Packing, a subsidiary of American Foods Group LLC (AFG), announced that operations at its processing plant in Gibbon, Neb., resumed on April 21.

For a week, Gibbon Packing paused production at the plant due to the collapse of a water well undergoing maintenance. No injuries were reported from the incident.

“The engineering and operations teams collaborated effectively to drill a new well and quickly restore the water supply,” Gibbon Packing said. “Special thanks to Woodman’s Drilling & Irrigation from Shelton, Neb., as well as our dedicated Gibbon and American Foods Group support teams, whose prompt actions ensured a rapid resolution.”

The company added that, throughout the disruption, it prioritized support for its team and retaining employees.

“We appreciate the patience and support of our employees, cattle producers, suppliers and customers,” said David Jagodzinske, president and chief operating officer of AFG. “We remain dedicated to meeting their needs now and in the long term.”



Beef Processing to Plate: Bringing the Beef Story to the Classroom

The California Beef Council’s “Beef: Processing to Plate” virtual series brought the journey of beef to life for thousands of students, connecting production, science, and nutrition in an engaging, classroom-friendly format. Led by Kori Dover, Director of Food and Nutrition Outreach for the California Beef Council, the three-part series was created in collaboration with the Nebraska Beef Council, Kansas Beef Council, and Iowa Beef Council to expand access to agricultural education across the country. 

Dover, a registered dietitian, focuses on educating consumers about beef through innovative outreach like virtual farm tours and classroom programming. The idea for the series stemmed from growing demand among educators.  

“We were seeing a growth of schools wanting to provide education for where food comes from,” Dover said. “This was a way to take the field trip to the classroom without students ever having to leave.”  

Designed for students in grades 8-12, including Family and Consumer Sciences, agriculture classes, and FFA members, the series aimed to reach students preparing to enter the workforce and become informed consumers. The three sessions, “Inside a Beef Packing Plant,” “The Meat Science Behind Beef,” and “Beef in the Kitchen,” each built upon the last.  The packing plant portion offered a rare, transparent look at processing, while emphasizing food safety and consistency. 

The meat science session featured Jessica Lancaster of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, who explained grading, marbling, and color in ways that connected directly to everyday meals. The final session highlighted practical cooking skills, with chefs demonstrating proper techniques and temperatures for preparing beef at home. 

The impact of the series was significant. Across all three sessions, more than 4,000 students registered per event, with hundreds attending live, representing 278 classrooms in the first session alone . Participation spanned 24 states and regions, including as far as Alberta, Canada, demonstrating the wide reach of the program. Additional engagement continues on YouTube, extending the life of the content beyond the live events. 

Feedback from educators was extremely positive, with 90% rating their experience favorably. Teachers appreciated the accessibility and depth of the content, noting the value of “the transparency inside the plant” and the ability to explore places “we can not reach in a few hours.”  Looking ahead, Dover hopes to continue expanding these virtual “field trips,” ensuring students everywhere and of all ages can better understand the beef industry while exploring future career opportunities.



Discounted early bird registration open for 2026 Iowa Farm Bureau Economic Summit

Discounted early bird registration opened today for the 2026 Iowa Farm Bureau Economic Summit: Trade Crossroads: Forces Shaping the Future of Ag, slated for July 17 at the FFA Enrichment Center in Ankeny. With U.S. trade policy at a pivotal moment, IFBF’s Economic Summit will provide farmers with a clearer picture of how global trade forces affect Iowa agriculture, a broader view of where future demand for U.S. ag products may emerge and actionable insight for farms and ag business.   

“U.S. trade policy is at a crossroads, and the decisions being made today will shape agriculture for years to come,” says IFBF President Brent Johnson. “Global markets are shifting; tariffs are evolving; and geopolitical pressures continue to reshape demand for U.S. commodities. Understanding where we’ve been and where we’re headed with trade is essential to protecting profitability and uncovering new opportunities in a rapidly changing global marketplace.” 

Former U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Bob Lighthizer headlines the 2026 IFBF Economic Summit with a “fireside chat” with IFBF President Brent Johnson. Lighthizer served as the 18th U.S. Trade Representative from 2017 to 2021 and spearheaded the most consequential trade negotiations of the past decade. He will provide insight into U.S. trade policy priorities, tariffs and fair trade, and the Trump administration’s trade policy approach.  

New ISU Research to be Unveiled
Iowa State University (ISU) researchers with the Center for Agricultural and Rural Development (CARD) will also unveil a new joint study in partnership with the Iowa Bankers Association and IFBF regarding what the latest economic indicators reveal about Iowa agriculture today and what that means for future farm profitability and ag financial considerations. 

Participants will also hear real-world examples from Iowa companies that are directly exporting agricultural products. “With ongoing uncertainty in global trade, some Iowa companies have taken a more direct approach. We’re excited to share their experiences that may work for some Iowa farmers,” said IFBF Economics & Research Manager Dr. Christopher Pudenz.

Additionally, Gregg Doud of the National Milk Producers Federation will discuss priority U.S. trade efforts, along with leading economists and trade experts covering meat, dairy and grain exports, including Dr. Sam Gregg of the American Institute of Economic Research, Erin Borror of the U.S. Meat Export Federation, and Susan Stroud of No Bull Agenda. 

IFBF’s Economic Summit: Trade Crossroads: Forces Shaping the Future of Ag kicks off with an evening networking reception for attendees Thursday, July 16, followed by a full day of presentations and panels Friday, July 17 at the FFA Enrichment Center in Ankeny. 

Summit registration includes access to the reception on July 16 and all presentations and lunch on July 17 and is $25 for Farm Bureau members and $200 for non-members through May 31. After May 31, regular price registration is $50 for Farm Bureau members and $400 for non-members.  Registration is limited, so interested parties are encouraged to secure a spot today. For a complete agenda, visit www.iowafarmbureau.com/News/Economic-Summit or contact Stacy Stevens (515-225-5633; sstevens@ifbf.org) for more information.



Global Dairy Prices Weaken as CME Milk Futures Hold Steady
Fred Hall, ISU Extension Dairy Field Specialist

The latest Global Dairy Trade (GDT) event held April 21, 2026, signals continued softening in global dairy markets, while U.S. milk futures on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) remain relatively stable, reflecting a more balanced domestic outlook.

Following declines earlier in April, global dairy prices have continued to face pressure. The previous GDT event showed broad-based price weakness across key commodities, including butter, anhydrous milkfat, and milk powders, with butter prices falling over 8 percent. In the most recent auction, butter was down 7.9 percent, anhydrous milk fat was down 9.6 percent and whole milk powder trending lower as well. The two components in positive territory were cheddar and lactose (+1.1 and +7.2 percents, respectably). This downward momentum suggests that global demand has cooled after a period of stronger pricing earlier in the year, while increased supply availability in exporting regions is adding to market pressure.

At the same time, trading volumes on the GDT platform have shown some variability in recent events, reflecting shifting buyer participation and cautious purchasing behavior in international markets. The April 21 auction continues to reinforce a more cautious tone across global dairy trade.

In contrast, CME dairy markets are showing signs of resilience. Class III milk futures for nearby contracts are holding near the $17.00 per hundredweight range, with recent settlements around $17.03 to $17.16. While prices have fluctuated slightly day-to-day, the overall trend suggests relative stability compared to the volatility seen in global markets.

This divergence highlights an important dynamic for U.S. dairy producers. While global markets are signaling softer pricing, domestic demand and tighter milk supplies are helping support U.S. prices in the near term. However, continued weakness in international markets could eventually pressure U.S. exports and limit upside potential.

Producers are encouraged to monitor both GDT outcomes and CME price movements closely, as global price direction and domestic fundamentals will remain key drivers of milk price risk management decisions in the months ahead.



New Financing Tools to Advance On-Farm Stewardship Highlighted in 2025 Sustainability Report from Farm Credit Services of America, AgCountry Farm Credit Services, and Frontier Farm Credit 

Farm Credit Services of America (FCSAmerica), AgCountry Farm Credit Services (AgCountry), and Frontier Farm Credit today released their collaborative 2025 Sustainability Report, highlighting new financing tools informed by producer insights. The report outlines how these tools, alongside research partnerships and cross-industry collaborations, help to reduce barriers to on-farm stewardship. The report is available for download here 2025 Sustainably Report. 

Among the topics covered in this year’s report is an in-depth look at two new programs: the  discounted grant-writing support through Lasso, which is currently in its pilot phase, and a Stewardship Fund that will launch its pilot later this year,  along with references to findings from producer surveys. 

Partnerships Demonstrating Stewardship in Practice 
The Sustainability Report highlights several collaborations that put stewardship into action. Through support from FCSAmerica, the Nebraska Soil Health Coalition partnered with the Soil Health Institute to develop partial budgets for 20 farms and ranches that have implemented regenerative practices for at least five years. The analysis found: 
    Increased yields boosted revenue for 8 operations. 
    Grazing cover crops improved revenue for 11 operations, with the greatest gains when both benefits were combined. 
    13 operations saw increased revenue and reduced input costs such as fertilizer, water and soil amendments. 
    Only 2 operations experienced increased expenses, primarily from post-harvest herbicide applications. 

In addition, the Soil Health Institute documented improvements across multiple soil health indicators, including: 
    100% improvement in water infiltration, soil organic matter, and erosion 
    94% improvement in soil biology and crop resiliency 
    88% improvement in soil structure and reduced fertilizer needs 
    82% improved water quality 

Stewardship Fund: A New Approach to Reducing Upfront Costs 
The report offers the first detailed look at the Stewardship Fund, a blended financing model that combines zero interest capital from food and agriculture companies with a Farm Credit loan. This structure reduces the cost of adopting new activities, as well as continuing, updating, and expanding activities such as no till, cover crops, precision nutrient management, and improved grazing systems. 

Seeking and acting on borrower feedback is central to how the Associations approach and guide its path to borrower solutions. “Producer perspectives continuously inform how we design, pilot, and refine solutions, ensuring they reflect real world needs and decision making,” said Myriah Johnson, Ph.D., vice president sustainability, FCSAmerica, AgCountry, Frontier Farm Credit.  “This disciplined listen and act approach reinforces our commitment to delivering practical, borrower-driven outcomes." The report details customer examples as part of an intentional effort to understand producers’ challenges and successes and measuring outcomes. The pilot will launch in late 2026, with refinements continuing through producer feedback and partner collaboration. 

Making Federal and State Funding More Accessible 
The report also details a new partnership with grant-writing service Lasso, offering discounted, end-to-end grant-writing support for producers seeking public funding for stewardship projects. The pilot is exclusive to publicly funded grants, Lasso’s area of expertise. Existing customers in Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin are eligible to apply for grant-writing services during the pilot period with nearly 90% of the cost being covered by FCSAmerica and AgCountry. Early feedback shows strong demand for assistance navigating increasingly complex funding opportunities. 

The program provides support to producers considering equipment upgrades, infrastructure improvements, or energy and efficiency projects who may be unsure whether grant funding is available or how to navigate the application process. Selected participants will receive Lasso's end-to-end support, including identifying relevant grant opportunities, preparing applications, and managing post-award requirements.  

PepsiCo Collaboration Signals Cross Industry Momentum 
PepsiCo, one of the world’s largest food companies and a major buyer of Midwest-grown ingredients, is also featured in this year’s Sustainability Report. The company aims to help producers adopt or expand regenerative, restorative practices across 10 million acres globally by 2030 and contributed insights during the development of the FCSAmerica Stewardship Fund. 

Report Highlights Producer Experiences and On-Farm Impact 
Across the region, producers featured in the report demonstrate how stewardship is implemented over time through practical, incremental improvements. Their experiences underscore the long-term nature of soil health and conservation work — and the importance of financial tools that support those transitions. 

“Our sustainability program is grounded in listening to producers and delivering practical solutions that work on real operations,” said Johnson. “This report shows how borrower informed financing, research partnerships and cross industry collaboration can reduce barriers to stewardship, strengthen farm profitability and create measurable outcomes that move agriculture — and the industry as a whole — forward.”  

Tuesday April 21 Ag News - Weekly Crop Progress Report - Wildfires and tax issues - UNL Appoints Ag Research Div Interim Dean - Dairy Markets Update - Pioneer Celebrates 100 Years - and more!

Nebraska: Planting Begins, Moisture Remains Tight

Planting activity across Nebraska continues to build, but the latest USDA Crop Progress report shows that persistent dryness across the Great Plains remains the dominant storyline, even as spring fieldwork accelerates.

Corn planting in Nebraska reached 8 percent complete by April 19, slightly ahead of the five‑year average. Soybean planting remains very early at 2 percent, consistent with normal seasonal timing. Producers logged 6.1 days suitable for fieldwork, allowing for early planting and field preparation.

Despite favorable field access, moisture remains a critical concern. Nebraska topsoil moisture is rated 82 percent short to very short, with subsoil moisture just as limited. Those conditions heighten concerns for crop emergence and pasture development if dry weather continues.



Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report

There were 2.7 days suitable for fieldwork during the week, 2.8 days less than last year. Topsoil moisture condition rated 2 percent very short, 8 percent short, 72 percent adequate and 18 percent surplus. Corn planting in Iowa reached 2 percent complete, which is 14 percentage points behind last year when 16 percent had been planted. Soybean planting reached 1 percent, which is 9 percentage points behind 2025 when 10 percent of the crop had been planted. Oats seeding reached 51 percent complete, 14 percentage points behind last year.



USDA Weekly Crop Progress Report

The winter wheat crop's good-to-excellent condition rating continued to decline last week, falling 4 percentage points nationwide amid building drought, limited rainfall, frosts and freezes, according to USDA NASS's weekly Crop Progress report released on Monday.

CORN
-- Planting progress: 11% of corn was planted nationwide as of Sunday, equal to last year and ahead of the five-year average of 9%. 
-- Crop development: 4% of corn had emerged as of Sunday, 2 points ahead of last year and the five-year average of 2%.

SOYBEANS
-- Planting progress: An estimated 12% of intended soybean acreage was planted as of Sunday, 5 points ahead of last year at this time and 7 points ahead of the five-year average of 7%. 

WINTER WHEAT
-- Crop condition: An estimated 33% of winter wheat was rated poor to very poor as of April 19, up 12 percentage points from 21% a year ago, according to NASS.
-- Crop development: 20% of winter wheat was headed nationwide as of Sunday. That's 6 percentage points ahead of last year's 14% and 8 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 12%. 

SPRING WHEAT
-- Planting progress: 12% of the crop was planted nationwide as of April 19, 4 percentage points behind last year's pace of 16% but equal to the five-year average. 
-- Crop development: 2% of spring wheat was emerged as of Sunday, equal to last year and the five-year average.




Webinar to help producers navigate tax issues after wildfire livestock sales

Wildfires and other disasters can force agricultural producers to sell livestock earlier or in greater numbers than planned. These decisions can create unexpected tax consequences, which will be explained in an upcoming webinar from the Center for Agricultural Profitability at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

“After the Fire: Tax Considerations and Planning for Livestock Sales” will be held at noon Central Time on April 29. It will be presented by Tina Barrett, executive director and farm financial consultant with Nebraska Farm Business, Inc., which provides financial and management assistance to agricultural producers across the state. 

Barrett will cover what qualifies as a weather-related sale and why that distinction matters for taxes, and walk through practical options that may help manage tax impact when herds are reduced. The webinar will also highlight key decisions to consider with advisors, including the timing of sales, maintaining good records and planning for recovery. 

The webinar is free, and registration is available on the Center for Agricultural Profitability’s website https://cap.unl.edu/webinars. 



Awada to serve as interim dean and director of the Agricultural Research Division

Tala Awada has been named interim dean and director of the Agricultural Research Division at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Her appointment will begin July 1.

Since 2015, Awada has served as associate ARD dean and director. In this role, she has helped guide the research enterprise across UNL’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, overseeing areas such as research administration, faculty development, and strategic initiatives that support sustainable and resilient food systems. She co-leads major research efforts, including Nebraska’s Long-Term Agroecosystem Research (LTAR) Network site and Partnership on Data Innovation (PDI) with U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service (ARS), and the Food, Agriculture and Environment Security with the National Strategic Research Institute (NSRI), while advancing global collaborations and initiatives in areas like regenerative bioeconomy, grasslands ecology and plant phenomics.

Awada joined the UNL faculty in 1999 as plant ecophysiologist and has since held roles as associate director of the School of Natural Resources and interim director of the School of Natural Resources, where she also is a professor.

“I’m thrilled that Tala Awada will serve as interim dean and director of the Agricultural Research Division at UNL,” said the Tiffany Heng-Moss, NU Vice President and Harlan Vice Chancellor for UNL’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources. 

“Dr. Awada has been instrumental in shaping the strength and direction of our research enterprise, and her leadership as interim dean and director will ensure continued momentum across the Agricultural Research Division.”

Her selection followed a process that sought feedback from leaders, faculty, and staff across IANR and ARD, as well as UNL partners.

“I am honored to continue to work with the talented scientists from across the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources as interim dean and director of the Agricultural Research Division,” said Awada. “Our faculty, students and staff are making an important difference in areas such as digital and precision agriculture, AI, the bioeconomy, food for health, livestock and cropping systems, plant science innovation, nutrition, early childhood development, and stewardship of our natural resources. I also look forward to fostering innovation and empowering our teams to pursue bold, collaborative solutions, while advancing partnerships and strengthening connections across the state and beyond.”

Dr. Awada earned her doctoral degree in plant sciences from the University of Saskatchewan, Canada; a master’s degree in environmental and renewable resources from the Mediterranean Agronomic Institute of Chania, Greece; and a bachelor’s degree in agricultural engineering from the Lebanese University.

Awada will succeed Derek McLean, who last month was announced as the dean of the Quinney College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at Utah State University. He has served as ARD dean and director since 2023.



Coalition Comments on Revised Conservation Practice Standards
 
The National Pork Producers Council-founded Agricultural Nutrient Policy Council, a coalition of more than 50 state and national agribusinesses and agricultural associations, submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service on redlined revisions to 60 of the agencies conservation practice standards. The standards are technical guidelines used to plan, implement, and evaluate conservation practices that protect soil, water, air, plants, animals, and energy resources. NRCS intends to update and revise each of its conservation practice standards over the next two years. 
 
NPPC has previously pressed NRCS to allow more—and earlier—stakeholder engagement after former NRCS staff led draft proposals to impose hundreds of thousands of dollars of capital costs on individual pig farming families. Those proposed revisions have now been withdrawn, and with the agencies, other practice standards are being released for stakeholder review and public comment. The recent revisions seek to ensure USDA conservation standards remain practical and achievable for farms and agribusinesses.
 
The coalition commented on 35 specific practices – there are 169 – including ones related to composting, irrigation water management, energy efficiency, pest management, and lagoons. On waste treatment lagoons, for example, the coalition wants the definition and explanatory language revised to clearly distinguish treatment lagoons from waste storage facilities. The previously proposed standard, to require impermeable covers over all lagoons and waste storage faciliites has been removed after U.S. pig farmers raised objections last year.
 
The comments also urged NRCS to evaluate ways to increase flexibility of the standards while ensuring natural resource benefits. More flexibility, the coalition said, “will allow for site-specific conservation planning, additional farmer and rancher innovation, and economic feasibility at the farm gate.”
 
Although it welcomed improvements clarifying the intent and function of conservation practices and preserving professional engineering and technical judgment in design criteria for conservation projects, ANPC cautioned NRCS to “avoid expanding unnecessarily prescriptive design requirements.” It also encouraged the agency to differentiate between mandatory practice criteria and programmatic, regulatory, or guidance-level provisions.
 
The NRCS conservation practice standards provide science-based guidance for managing natural resources on agricultural, forest, and other lands. The agency makes periodic revisions to the standards to reflect new research, technology, and environmental priorities.



Global Dairy Trade Signals Market Softening in April 14th Auction
Fred Hall, ISU Extension Dairy Field Specialist

The latest Global Dairy Trade (GDT) results, reflecting market conditions leading into April 14, show a notable shift in global dairy markets, with prices moving lower after earlier strength this year.

The GDT Price Index declined approximately 3.4 percent in the most recent trading session, marking the first significant downturn after several months of gains. The weighted average price fell to USD $4,228 per metric ton, with total volumes traded reaching 16,497 tons, continuing a multi‑month trend of reduced supply offerings.

The market weakness was most pronounced in butterfat markets. Butter prices dropped about 8.1 percent to roughly $6,181 per metric ton, while anhydrous milk fat fell 7.1 percent. Cheese markets also softened, with cheddar prices declining 3.1 percent and mozzarella down more than 6 percent.

Milk powder markets showed more resilience but still posted modest declines. Skim milk powder prices slipped 1.6 percent to around $3,381 per metric ton, while whole milk powder—typically a key global benchmark—declined just 0.7 percent to approximately $3,687 per metric ton.

Despite the downward movement in most categories, broader dairy market fundamentals remain mixed. USDA's April dairy outlook projects higher U.S. milk production for 2026, supported by a larger national herd. However, domestic use is expected to soften due to higher wholesale prices for key commodities such as Cheddar and nonfat dry milk.

Industry analysts point to shifting supply-demand dynamics, including improved milk production in key exporting regions and evolving international trade conditions, as contributors to the softer tone. The decline also highlights ongoing volatility in global dairy markets, where price direction can change quickly in response to supply flows and buyer activity.

While this latest result introduces caution into the market outlook, prices remain above levels seen in parts of 2025, suggesting the broader dairy sector continues to operate on a relatively solid footing.

The next GDT trading event is scheduled for April 21, where global buyers and sellers will look for signs of stabilization or further price adjustments as the dairy sector navigates shifting economic conditions.

For U.S. dairy producers, this mid-April Global Dairy Trade downturn is less of a crisis signal and more of a "momentum check"—but it still carries some real implications for milk checks and market strategy.

First, it likely puts near-term pressure on prices.

Global markets help set the tone for U.S. exports, especially for products like butterfat, cheese, and powders. The sharp drop in butter and anhydrous milk fat is the biggest red flag. The U.S. has been competitive in butterfat exports at times, so weaker global prices can translate into softer domestic butter values—and that can drag down the butterfat component of milk pricing.

Second, export competitiveness may improve—but with a catch.

Lower global prices can make U.S. products look relatively more expensive in the short run. That could slow export momentum, particularly for cheese and powders. However, if U.S. prices also decline, it could eventually restore competitiveness and support exports later this spring or summer.

Third, milk powder's resilience acts as a stabilizer.

Skim milk powder (SMP) and whole milk powder (WMP) only posted modest declines. That's important because powders are a major outlet for U.S. milk solids. This suggests global demand hasn't disappeared; it's just cooling. That should help prevent a more severe drop in Class IV milk prices.

Fourth, this reinforces volatility—not a trend reversal (yet).

Prices are still stronger than parts of 2025, so margins aren't collapsing. This signals that the market may be entering a choppier phase. Producers should expect more swings rather than a steady upward climb.

Bottom line:
    Short-term: Mild downside pressure on milk prices, especially butterfat.
    Medium-term: Watch exports—key to price recovery.
    Strategy: Risk management tools (such as DRP or forward contracting) become increasingly important in this environment. 

If the next GDT event shows another decline, that's when this shifts from a "pause" to a more meaningful bearish trend.



USDA Seeks Nominees for the National Sheep Industry Improvement Center
 
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is seeking nominees for two producer positions and one expert in marketing to serve three-year terms on the National Sheep Industry Improvement Center Board of Directors. Nominations are due June 29, 2026.

USDA selects appointees from candidates nominated by Certified Nominating Organizations (CNO). A CNO is any certified national organization with a principal interest in the production of sheep in the United States and whose membership consists primarily of active domestic sheep producers.

The center’s board of directors is comprised of seven voting members and two non-voting members. Voting members include four active U.S. sheep producers, two members with expertise in finance and management and one member with expertise in lamb or wool product marketing. Non-voting members include USDA’s Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs and Under Secretary for Research, Education and Economics.

The Sheep Industry Improvement Center was established as part of the 2008 Farm Bill and administers a grant program designed to improve the competitiveness of the U.S. sheep industry by strengthening and enhancing the production and marketing of sheep and sheep products.

Throughout the full nomination process, the industry must conduct extensive outreach, to attract nominees that reflect the uniqueness of the industry in terms of experience, methods of production and distribution, marketing strategies, and other distinguishing factors, that will bring different perspectives and ideas to the center.

For more information, contact Barbara Josselyn at 202-713-6918 or Barbara.Josselyn@usda.gov.



Ongoing Monitoring and Pencil Sharpening are Warranted
Glynn T. Tonsor, Ph.D., Department of Agricultural Economics, Kansas State University

As 2026 continues to progress, it is useful to pause and assess margins in the beef-cattle industry. Recently, the KSU Cattle Feeding Returns estimates were updated https://agmanager.info/livestock-meat/cattle-finishing-historical-and-projected-returns, providing the latest insight into margin patterns in the feedlot sector.

One key point to highlight upfront is that the vertical axis on all eight regularly published figures has had to be re-specified (widened) multiple times over the past two years. That is, the underlying cattle prices, implied breakeven values, and margin estimates have increased notably and would be “off the charts” if the formatting of said charts were not adjusted.

As of April 16th, projected margins remain historically strong through September. That is, market-ready fed steers and heifers slated to leave KS feedlots by September are projected currently to sell at sufficiently high prices, relative to costs of gain and earlier purchase of feeder cattle, that per head margins may continue at $500 or higher levels. This, of course, is a projection, and readers here understand there are no dull days here in 2026. One is only a surprise announcement or development away from an adjustment that could notably alter how these projections align with realized outcomes.

While the above, on balance, is a favorable summary of feedlot margins, some reminders and caveats are warranted. First, this series presumes an all-cash, no price risk management approach, leading to both projected highs and projected lows exceeding what is realized by parties regularly implementing price-mitigation strategies. Second, any producer selling cattle using mechanisms that generate additional price premiums should keep both that higher revenue and any associated higher production costs in mind when translating this barometer of sector patterns to their situation. Finally, this series is built on a per-head, easy-to-follow framework that effectively ignores the realities of operating feedlots at partial or below full capacity. This point is particularly important as operations with empty pens would have net business margins that, once put on a per-head basis, are below what this series portrays.

Ultimately, as 2026 continues, a key suggestion for feedlot operations is to “continue sharpening the pencil.” While there are multiple sources of positive margin support for the sector in recent years and early in 2026, how this aligns with each specific operation varies, and hopefully, resources such as the KSU Cattle Feeding Returns barometer motivate ongoing assessment, reflection, and ultimately improved management.



Pioneer Celebrates a Century of Innovation, Delivering for Farmers

Pioneer®, the flagship seed brand of Corteva, commemorated 100 years of innovation and global agricultural leadership yesterday at an event at the Corteva Global Seed Business Center in Johnston, Iowa.

Founded a century ago by former U.S. Vice President Henry A. Wallace, Pioneer was the first to produce hybrid corn at scale – a groundbreaking innovation that contributed to average corn yields in the U.S. increasing by nearly 600%, revolutionizing American agriculture and the American farm economy. That tradition continues: today, Pioneer is the No. 1 corn and soybean brand in the U.S. by market share and has world-record-breaking yield performance in corn, soybeans and dryland sorghum.

“Farming is the beating heart of this country, and we could not be prouder to have worked alongside farmers for the past century to feed and fuel it,” said Executive Vice President, Seed Business, Judd O’Connor. “Innovation has always been part of the story of agriculture – from hybrid corn in 1926 to new hybrid wheat technology today – and Pioneer, as its name suggests, has always been at the leading edge of innovation. And with tools like gene editing on the horizon, we know that after the remarkable past century, Pioneer is only just getting started.”

Pioneer has led the industry for a century:
    First company to commercialize hybrid corn at scale. 
    Home to one of the largest and deepest corn germplasm collections in the world today. 
    Seed sold today in more than 70 countries, serving millions of farmers around the world.  
    World-record setting corn hybrid, producing 623.84 bu/A (2023).1
    World-record setting soybean variety, producing 218.2856 bu/A (2024).2 
    Top-yielding dryland sorghum variety, producing 245.86 bu/A (2020).3

As part of the 100-year celebration, David Wallace Douglas, grandson of Henry A. Wallace, donated $100,000 to fund more than 100,000 meals packed by Corteva employees to benefit the Food Bank of Iowa and food pantries across the state of Indiana. Over the last 30 years, Pioneer and Corteva have invested nearly $2,000,000 in local organizations.

To learn more about the Pioneer 100-year anniversary, visit pioneer.com/100.

Monday April 20 Ag News - ENREEC Hosts Cover Crop Training Thursday, Crop Scout Training in May - NeFB PAC Endorses Local, State Candidates - N. American Manure Expo Tours announced - NE Ag on USMCA Review - and more!

Pillen Requests Extension to Submit Information for Wildfire Damage

Governor Jim Pillen is asking officials with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for additional time to submit information relative to damage done to public infrastructure from the Morrill and Cottonwood fires. If the 30-day extension is approved, the state would have until May 27 to comply.

The information is necessary to apply for a federal disaster declaration. The Governor’s letter explains that the extension will allow the state to work with FEMA Region VII in conducting joint preliminary damage assessments (PDA) in Arthur, Dawson, Garden, Grant, Keith, Lincoln, and Morrill counties.

The Morrill and Cottonwood fires burned in excess of 770,000 acres. Efforts to assess the totality of the damage have been hampered due to additional fires in those areas, requiring fire suppression resources and complicating the ability to determine the extent of damage and where it originated.

Should a major disaster declaration be approved through FEMA, it would allow the use of federal funds to assist with costs of repairing public infrastructure damaged in the Morrill and Cottonwood fires.

The Governor’s team has been in regular touch with FEMA and President Trump’s administration, which have been incredibly responsive and helpful in the aftermath of the state’s major wildfires. Additional information will be shared concerning the disaster declaration process, as it becomes available.




Cover Crop Training to Highlight Variety Trials, Grazing and Species Selection at ENREEC

A one-day, hands-on cover crop training will be held Thursday, April 23, at the Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center near Mead, offering ag professionals a closer look at ongoing research and practical management strategies.

The training will showcase current studies on cover crop varieties, grazing systems and perennial cover crops, with both outdoor field tours and classroom sessions planned throughout the day.

The event begins at 9 a.m. at ENREEC headquarters, with guided tours of cover crop research plots starting at 9:30 a.m. Participants will return indoors for lunch, followed by an afternoon session focused on cover crop species identification and selection criteria. The program will conclude at 3 p.m.

Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) continuing education units will be available.

The training is open to farmers, extension educators, university researchers, graduate students, NRCS and NRD staff and other agricultural professionals interested in cover crop systems.

If storms are forecast for the planned date, the training will be held Thursday, April 30. Registrants will be notified of any postponement by email.

Agenda: 
    9-9:30 a.m. — Welcome and travel to field
    9:30-11 a.m. — Cover Crop Variety and Perennial Trials, Tauana Almeida, postdoctoral research associate, Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, and Somdatta Achar, Ph.D. student, Department of Agronomy and Horticulture 
    11 a.m.-noon — Cover Crop Grazing Trial, Mary Drewnoski, professor, Department of Animal Science 
    12-1 p.m. — Lunch, catered by Parkers Smokehouse
    1-2:30 p.m. — Cover Crop Identification and Species Selection, Katja Koehler-Cole, statewide soil health extension educator 
    2:30-3 p.m. — Final remarks and evaluation

Participants are encouraged to register in advance. For questions, email Ethan Thies. ENREEC is located at 1071 Co. Rd. G, Ithaca, NE 68033.

There is no cost to attend, thanks to support from the Midwest Cover Crops Council, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Iowa State University, University of Nebraska–Lincoln and the Center for Regenerative Agriculture.




Nebraska Extension to Host Introductory Crop Scout Training May 19

Nebraska Extension will offer an introductory crop scout training Tuesday, May 19 for industry representatives and corn and soybean growers looking to strengthen their pest management and field scouting skills.

Designed for entry-level scouts working with crop consultants, agronomists and farm service centers, the training is also a good fit for growers who scout their own fields and students preparing for agribusiness roles.

The in-person course will be held from 9 a.m. to 4:40 p.m., with registration beginning at 8:30 a.m., at the Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center near Mead, Nebraska.

“We look forward to providing participants a hands-on, in-person experience focusing on important crop scouting skills,” said Nebraska Extension Educator Aaron Nygren.

Topics will include:
    Scouting tips and techniques 
    Hands-on field practice 
    Corn and soybean growth and development 
    Crop disease identification 
    Weed identification, including morphology and seedling keys 
    Corn and soybean insect scouting, identification and management 
    Nutrient deficiencies in corn and soybean 

Participants will gain practical, field-based experience to improve scouting accuracy and decision-making throughout the growing season. Past attendees have consistently rated the training highly, noting improvements in scouting confidence and field identification skills.

The cost is $115 and includes lunch, refreshments, workshop materials and a three-ring binder instruction manual with reference resources. A reduced registration fee of $75 is available for those who do not wish to receive the manual.

Pre-registration is required by Friday, May 15 to reserve a seat and ensure materials and meals are available https://web.cvent.com/event/609c90d6-7e08-443d-8c9d-4ef8935ea463/summary.

For more information, contact Aaron Nygren or Nebraska Extension at (402) 624-8030. 



Nebraska Farm Bureau Endorses Candidates for Election to the Nebraska Legislature

Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB), the state’s largest general agriculture organization, has announced a slate of endorsements for candidates seeking election to the Nebraska Legislature. Endorsements made by the Nebraska Farm Bureau Political Action Committee (NEFB-PAC) are based on the candidates’ positions on agriculture and rural issues and recommendations from district evaluation committees made up of farmer and rancher members.

“We are pleased to announce our support for several candidates seeking election to serve in the Nebraska Legislature. Given the important role farmers and ranchers play in helping produce our food and the prominent role agriculture plays in supporting our state’s broader economy, it’s important we elect leaders who have an appreciation for and understanding of both,” said Katie Olson of Atkinson, chair of NEFB-PAC and first vice president of Nebraska Farm Bureau.

NEFB-PAC endorsed candidates seeking election to the Legislature in open rural races:
District 2 – Dean Helmick of Plattsmouth
District 16 – Ted Japp of Blair
District 22 – Dawson Brunswick of Columbus
District 30 – Cally Ideus of Filley
District 38 – Janell Anderson Ehrke of Orleans
District 41 – Joe Johnson of Kearney

“We look forward to supporting this slate of candidates in their election efforts. We have confidence that the candidates vying for office in open races possess comparable abilities to guide our state towards a prosperous future,” said Olson.



Nebraska Farm Bureau Endorses Brinker Harding for Election to Serve the Second Congressional District  

Brinker Harding has been endorsed by the Nebraska Farm Bureau Political Action Committee (NEFB-PAC). Harding is seeking election to serve as Nebraska’s representative in the second congressional district.

Harding, a lifelong Omaha resident, has served on the Omaha City Council since 2017 and brings a strong background in public service and economic development. Prior to his election, he worked in city government as chief of staff and director of economic development, with a focus on budgeting, infrastructure, and supporting local growth.

“Brinker Harding has demonstrated a strong commitment to local leadership and economic growth,” said Katie Olson, chair of the NEFB-PAC and first vice president of Nebraska Farm Bureau. “His background in budgeting, infrastructure, and community development, combined with his experience in public service, positions him to be an effective voice for Nebraska and its rural communities in Washington, D.C. Because of that, we are pleased to support him in his bid to serve in Congress.”

Brinker earned the NEFB-PAC endorsement based on results of NEFB’s grassroots selection process, which involves gathering input from local County Farm Bureaus across the state.



Nebraska Farm Bureau Endorses Candidates for Election to the State Executive Branch

Nebraska Farm Bureau, the state’s largest general agriculture organization, is pleased to announce the endorsement of three candidates seeking to serve the state in various elected positions. Endorsements made by the Nebraska Farm Bureau Political Action Committee (NEFB-PAC) are based on the candidates’ positions on agricultural and rural issues and recommendations from district evaluation committees made up of farmer and rancher members.

“These candidates have shown a remarkable understanding of the significance of agriculture to Nebraska,” said Katie Olson, who serves as the first vice president of Nebraska Farm Bureau and chair of NEFB-PAC. “They all display a comprehensive awareness of the challenges facing farmers and ranchers across the state, along with a commitment to enhancing agriculture to bolster the state's economy.”

NEFB-PAC endorsed candidates seeking election: 

State Attorney General
Mike Hilgers, the incumbent Nebraska Attorney General, consistently fights federal overreach, protects the constitution, and keeps our Nebraska communities safe. From the courtroom to the Capitol, as Attorney General, Hilgers will continue to fight tirelessly every day for Nebraskans.

State Treasurer
Joey Spellerberg, the appointed incumbent State Treasurer since November 2025, brings a strong record of fiscal responsibility, private-sector experience as a business owner, and proven leadership from his tenure as mayor of Fremont, where he advanced economic growth while reducing the city’s tax levy. He is committed to protecting taxpayer dollars through transparency and sound stewardship of state funds.

State Auditor of Public Accounts
Mike Foley, the incumbent Nebraska Auditor seeking re-election, brings a long record of government accountability, including multiple terms as State Auditor and service as Lieutenant Governor, where he focused on oversight of public spending and ensuring proper use of state and local funds. He has a proven track record of uncovering waste and misuse, reinforcing his commitment to transparency and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars.

“We look forward to providing support for all the candidates as they seek to represent the interests of Farm Bureau members throughout state,” said Olson.

These candidates earned the NEFB-PAC endorsement based on results of NEFB’s grassroots selection process, which involves gathering input from local County Farm Bureaus across the state.



Tours Announced for 2026 North American Manure Expo
Leslie Johnson - Animal Manure Management Extension Educator

Visitors to the 2026 North American Manure Expo being held at the Wayne County Fairgrounds in Wayne, Nebraska on July 28-30 will have the chance to explore some of the region’s most innovative and sustainability‑focused agricultural operations during the event’s official tour day on July 28, 2026. All tours will begin and end at the Wayne County Fairgrounds, offering participants a convenient launch point for a day of hands‑on learning.

Organizers have curated five tours, each highlighting different aspects of manure management and livestock production, as well as conservation and agricultural innovation in Nebraska. Participants will have the option of choosing one or two half-day long tours or one full-day tour. While the full day tour is the “family friendly” option, families are welcome on any of the tours.

Innovation in Livestock and Manure Equipment
This tour features a half-day exploration of two livestock operations and one manufacturing facility. Participants will visit Zobel Family Farms, a three-generation beef and pork operation recognized with the 2013 Environmental Stewardship Award for its commitment to responsible production practices. The tour then stops at Bar K, a beef feedlot that showcases a deep pit confinement system designed to protect the environment. The final stop is West Point Implement, a regional leader in manure application and feedlot management equipment, including the well-known SpreadAll Manure Spreader line.

Composting, Renewable Energy and Modern Cattle Care
This half‑day experience highlighting agricultural operations that transform waste into valuable resources. Stops include Bacon Hill Farm, home to an anaerobic digester that generated methane‑powered electricity beginning in 2005 and operated for 15 years as part of Olean Energy; Doernemann Composting, a permitted facility established in 1999 that provides composting services alongside a construction and demolition landfill; and Reigle Cattle Company, a family‑run cattle operation that recently expanded with the addition of new roller‑compacted concrete pens.

Poultry Production and Manufacturing 
Experience a look at the poultry industry from barn to processing and equipment manufacturing. Participants will take a drive‑by tour of a broiler farm, where the on‑board guide will highlight key features of the active broiler facility. The tour then stops at the Lincoln Premium Poultry Processing Plant, a state‑of‑the‑art Fremont facility built to supply Costco’s rotisserie chickens and capable of processing more than 10 million pounds of chicken each week while employing roughly 1,200 workers. The final stop is Mighty Giant, a factory that produces tub grinders and litter‑loading equipment essential for poultry manure handling.

Research, Technology and Regenerative Farming 
The tour includes the Haskell Agricultural Laboratory, a University of Nebraska site featuring long-term organic versus inorganic fertilizer trials, nitrogen-sensing technology, and insights into nearby egg producer Michael Foods. 

It also stops at the Kvols Beef Feedlot, a multi-generation livestock operation that expanded with the addition of a deep-pit beef barn and shares real-world experiences with the system. 

The final stop is the Junior Pfanstiel Farm, a 270-acre regenerative organic operation focused on reducing chemical inputs and improving soil fertility through the use of cover crops.

Family‑Focused 
This tour is a full-day experience designed for visitors of all ages and features a blend of agriculture, wildlife and Nebraska history. The tour begins at Pfanny’s Farm, a family-owned agritourism destination dedicated to land stewardship and known for combining traditional and modern crop and livestock management practices that support long-term soil and natural resource health. 

Participants also visit 4 Aces Dairy, a 180-head robotic dairy where automation significantly reduces labor needs and guests can observe milking technology in action through a 24/7 viewing room. 

The tour continues with a stop at Grove Lake Wildlife Management Area, home to a 50-acre fishing lake and more than 2,000 acres of prime habitat for deer, turkey, pheasant and quail, where visitors will enjoy a boxed lunch. 

The day concludes at the Ashfall Fossil Beds, a rare type of fossil site called lagerstätten that provides an exceptional ecological “snapshot” of ancient organisms.

A Day Designed for Learning and Inspiration
With options suited to professionals, families and anyone curious about modern agriculture, the 2026 North American Manure Expo tours offer a unique window into the future of manure management, conservation and food production. Learn more about the manure expo and watch for registration on the event site https://manureexpo.com/.



Nebraska Ag Leaders Send Letter of Support for USMCA

Members of the Nebraska Ag Leaders, the largest agricultural organizations in the state, sent a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Jamison Greer offering continued support for the U.S., Mexico, Canada Agreement (USMCA), the renegotiated free trade agreement which replaced the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). 

"The USMCA agreement reinforces and enhances the logical trade relationship between Nebraska and its North American neighbors and provides critical stability and certainty to this important aspect of the state's economy," the combined organizations said.

"USMCA additionally preserves zero-tariff treatment that is crucial to allow U.S. agricultural exports to be globally competitive. With Nebraska’s central location and access to three Class I railroads, transportation is efficient to several crossings into Mexico and Canada,” the organizations said in a combined statement.

A mandatory review of the agreement is scheduled for July 1,2026. 



U.S. Soy Welcomes $14 Million in New USDA Trade Development Funding to Drive Global Export Demand

The American Soybean Association (ASA), U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), and World Initiative for Soy in Human Health (WISHH) last week announced the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA-FAS) allocation of $14 million in funding through the new America First Trade Promotion Program (AFTPP).  

The funds will be invested to support the joint initiative of USSEC and ASA/WISHH to grow global demand for U.S. Soy by equipping international buyers with the tools, data, and technical support they need to prefer, procure, and promote soy of U.S. origin in their markets.  

“This AFTPP funding is a welcome and especially timely opportunity coming just as new trade agreements are opening doors, and diversifying demand for U.S. Soy in international markets,” said Mike McCranie, USSEC Board Chair and South Dakota farmer. “USSEC is eager to turn that momentum and this new investment into export sales and measurable returns for U.S. soybean farmers.”  

“For soybean farmers, demand is everything,” said Scott Metzger, ASA President and Ohio farmer. “This funding helps strengthen long-term market access and ensures U.S. Soy remains competitive in a global marketplace, keeping American farmers at the forefront of growing global demand.”

“The AFTPP funding supports WISHH and U.S. Soy to capitalize on years of market development efforts in developing and emerging markets,” said Morey Hill, WISHH Chair and Iowa farmer. “This funding will allow WISHH to launch new and innovative programs with partners who are eager to try U.S. Soy.”

Planned activities include building industry expertise with local processors, feed mills, and food companies, supporting local processing and enterprise development in protein-deficient regions, promoting soy-based food use opportunities, and advancing sustainability initiatives that showcase U.S. Soy’s verified environmental credentials and role in climate-smart supply chains.

First announced in 2025, the AFTPP is designed to help U.S. agriculture leverage new overseas market opportunities, maintain critical trading relationships, and diversify export destinations for U.S. farm products, complementing other USDA export promotion tools such as the Market Access Program (MAP) and Foreign Market Development (FMD) program.



USDA and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Break Ground on New Texas Sterile Fly Production Facility

Friday, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins and Lieutenant General William H. “Butch” Graham, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) commanding general, led the groundbreaking for the new sterile fly production facility at Moore Air Base in Edinburg, Texas. USDA is partnering with USACE to construct this facility, which is a cornerstone of Secretary Rollins’ five-pronged strategy (PDF, 1005 KB) to combat New World Screwworm (NWS), expanding the nation’s domestic capacity to protect livestock, wildlife, and public health from this serious pest.

“Breaking ground on this facility marks a major investment in safeguarding America’s livestock and the producers who feed this nation. This puts NWS sterile fly production in American hands, so we do not have to rely on other countries for the best offensive measure to push screwworm away from our borders,” said Secretary Rollins. “The New World Screwworm threatens the health of our herds, the stability of rural economies, and the resilience of our supply chain. President Trump and his entire cabinet is committed to leveraging every resource necessary to contain this pest, protect American agriculture, and ensure the long-term security of our food supply chain.”

USACE is providing engineering, design, construction management, and contract oversight for the project, ensuring the facility meets the highest standards for biosecurity, reliability, and long‑term operational readiness.

The new facility is being built with an aggressive timeline designed to quickly expand the nation’s sterile fly production capacity:
    Initial operational capability targeted for November 2027, reaching production of 100 million sterile flies per week.
    Construction continues immediately beyond initial operations to scale full production capacity to 300 million sterile flies per week.
    USDA and USACE have slashed red tape, securing expedited procurement, and eliminating other barriers.
    Together, USDA and USACE will oversee installation, and commissioning of specialized systems that will make this facility operable on time, delivering the critical sterile flies we need to continue to defeat this pest.

This aggressive schedule reflects USDA’s commitment to protecting America’s producers. A sterile fly production facility plays a crucial role in NWS prevention and response. In a biosecure environment, NWS flies are raised and sterilized using irradiation before being released in targeted areas. Because female screwworm flies mate only once, mating with sterile males results in eggs that do not hatch. Sterile insect technique, paired with surveillance, animal movement restrictions, and education and outreach, has been the foundation of successful screwworm eradication efforts for decades; USDA has defeated this pest before and using these proven methods, USDA will do so again.

This new state-of-the-art facility will complement USDA’s ongoing production of 100 million sterile flies per week at the Panama-based COPEG facility. USDA has also invested $21 million to support modernization of Mexico’s Metapa, MX facility, expected to be operational in summer 2026.

Once fully operational, this expanded production network will provide the speed, scale, and domestic capability needed to rapidly counter any NWS threat—reducing risks to producers, protecting animal health, and strengthening the resilience of America’s livestock industry.

For more information about New World Screwworm and USDA’s prevention efforts, visit Screwworm.gov.

Friday April 17 Cattle on Feed Report - Fairly Close to Pre-report Estimates

 United States Cattle on Feed Down 1 Percent

Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 11.6 million head on April 1, 2026. The inventory was 1 percent below April 1, 2025.  The range of estimates was 99.1% to 100.1%. The inventory included 7.26 million steers and steer calves, down slightly from the previous year. This group accounted for 63 percent of the total inventory. Heifers and heifer calves accounted for 4.32 million head, down 1 percent from 2025.

Cattle on Feed Inventory (1,000 hd - % April 1 '26)
Colorado .......:             915           92       
Iowa ..............:             690          101         
Kansas ..........:            2,360         101        
Nebraska ......:            2,640         102        
Texas ............:            2,560          96      


Placements in feedlots during March totaled 1.71 million head, 7 percent below 2025. Net placements were 1.66 million head. Placements were the second lowest for March since the series began in 1996.  The placement range of estimates was 89.8% to 95.4%. During March, placements of cattle and calves weighing less than 600 pounds were 320,000 head, 600-699 pounds were 250,000 head, 700-799 pounds were 435,000 head, 800-899 pounds were 474,000 head, 900-999 pounds were 170,000 head, and 1,000 pounds and greater were 60,000 head. 

Cattle Placed       (1,000 hd   -   % March '25)
Colorado ......:            125           93      
Iowa .............:            105          101     
Kansas .........:            410           95       
Nebraska .....:             425           85    
Texas ...........:             315           85     


Marketings of fed cattle during March totaled 1.63 million head, 6 percent below 2025. Marketings were the second lowest for March since the series began in 1996.  The pre-report guesses had a range of 92.3% to 95.3%. Other disappearance totaled 50,000 head during March, 9 percent below 2025. 

Cattle Marketed    (1,000 hd   -   % March '25)
Colorado ......:            130           93     
Iowa .............:             93          100     
Kansas .........:            390           98     
Nebraska .....:            445           94       
Texas ...........:            275           83    

Friday April 17 Ag News - NE Beef Passport '26 - Rural Mainstreet Index Still Weak - NE/IA Travel to USGBC Thailand Conference - America First Trade Promotion Program Awards - Prop 12 and Food Prices - and more!

Nebraska Beef Passport Features 60+ Restaurants and Meat Shops

Beef lovers across the state can once again hit the road in search of unforgettable meals as the 2026 Nebraska Beef Passport returns for another season.
 
Hosted by the Nebraska Beef Council, the Nebraska Beef Passport invites participants to explore restaurants, meat markets and processors across the state, all while enjoying high-quality Nebraska beef. The program officially runs from May 1 through September 30.
 
The passport is free and available in both digital and printable formats, making it easy for participants to plan their next beef-inspired adventure.
 
“This program continues to grow because people genuinely enjoy getting out and experiencing great beef in communities across Nebraska,” said Adam Wegner, director of marketing for the Nebraska Beef Council. “It’s not just about the food but also discovering new places, supporting local businesses and celebrating the strength of Nebraska’s beef industry.”
 
Restaurants
402 Sport Bar & Grill - Beatrice
411 Restaurant & Lounge - Norfolk
Block 16 - Omaha
Bob's Bar & Grill - Martinsburg
Burger Werx - Bridgeport
Cast Iron Bar & Grille - Stuart
Charlie's Pub - Milligan
Chatterbox Brews - Tekamah
Coppermill Steakhouse - McCook
Cunninghams Journal Downtown - Kearney
Cunninghams on the Lake - Kearney
Dinker's Bar & Grill - Omaha
H.F. Crave - Lincoln
JoJo's Gelato & Grill - Aurora
Julie's Hay Town Grill - Hay Springs
Longhorn Bar & Grill - Ft. Calhoun
McLean Beef - York
Meridian Tap House - Cozad
Monument Grill - Gering
Ol' Ironsides Barbeque - Cairo
Papa Moon - Scottsbluff
Pearl Street Steakhouse - Wayne
Railhouse Pub - Hallam
RedZ Bar & Grill - Mitchell
Royal Bar & Grill - Royal
Sandhills Corral - Thedford
T. Walkers on Main Street - Gothenburg
The Cedar Room - North Platte
The Palace Lounge - Red Cloud
The Union Bar - Gering
Two Bills Steakhouse - Clearwater
Z's Bar & Grill - Scribner
              
Meat Shops
Blue River Meats - Crete, Hickman
Buresh Meats - David City, Columbus, Lincoln, Coleridge
Cornhusker Beef Company - Nebraska City
Ellsworth Crossing - Waterloo
Loeffel Meat Shoppe - Lincoln
Lot 279 – Norfolk
Main Street Meats - Ogallala
Marky's Meat Market - Gering
R&M Meats - Norfolk
Rick's Meats - Elkhorn
              
Meat Processors
American Butchers - Beaver City
Aurora Meat Block - Aurora
Belschner Custom Meats - Amherst
Blair Meat Market - Blair
Den's Country Meats - Table Rock
Heartland Provisions - Diller
Dundy County Processors - Benkelman
Faltin Meat Market - Howells
Gentert Pack - Holstein
Husker Meats - Ainsworth
Karpisek Market - Wilber
McLean Beef - York
Midwest Meat Company - Minden
M-K Meats - Unadilla
North Bend Locker - North Bend
Ord Locker - Ord
Pickrell Locker & Smokehouse - Pickrell
Shamrock Locker - O'Neill
Wahoo Locker - Wahoo 

Participants can check in at each location by scanning a QR code through the mobile pass platform. Each stop earns points that can be redeemed for prizes, while also entering participants into the grand prize drawing. Those who collect 30 or more check-ins can earn a spot in the Beef Passport Hall of Fame, recognizing the most dedicated beef enthusiasts in the state.
 
The 2026 Nebraska Beef Passports are now available in print or digital download at GoodLifeGreatSteaks.org. Follow the Nebraska Beef Passport on Facebook for updated information throughout the season.



Rural Mainstreet Index Falls Below Growth Neutral for Third Consecutive Month 

According to the April survey of bank CEOs in rural areas of a 10-state region dependent on agriculture and/or energy, the overall Rural Mainstreet Index (RMI) dropped below growth neutral for the third consecutive month. 

Overall: The region’s overall reading for April improved to a weak 47.9 from March’s 40.9. This marks the 14th time since January 2025 that the index has moved below the growth neutral threshold. The index ranges between 0 and 100, with a reading of 50.0 representing growth neutral. 

“Weakness in farm commodity prices and elevated agriculture input costs are spilling over into the   rural business community. Approximately, 54.2% of bankers reported that their local economy was in a recession,” said Ernie Goss, PhD, Jack A. MacAllister Chair in Regional Economics at Creighton University’s Heider College of Business. 

Farming and ranchland prices: For the third time in 2026, the region’s farm and ranchland price index sank below growth neutral to 48.0 from 50.2 in March. “Though farm and ranchland values have been holding up much better than farm income, weak farm income, lower farm liquidity and tougher credit standards have pushed farmland values lower,” said Goss.  

According to trade data from the International Trade Association (ITA), regional exports of agriculture goods and livestock for the first two months of 2026, compared to the same period in 2025, increased by 5.0% to $1.88 billion.   

Farm equipment sales: The April farm equipment sales index slumped to a very weak 26.1, down from 28.6 in March. This is the 32nd straight month that the index has fallen below growth neutral.  

“The 2026 conflict in Iran has created even more volatility in the agricultural sector, impacting agricultural equipment sales by tightening farmer operating margins via increasing input costs and shifting farmer planting decisions,” said Goss. 

Confidence: Rural bankers remain pessimistic about economic growth for their area over the next six months. Even so, the April confidence index rose to a weak 39.1 from 29.5 in March. “In spite of $12 billion of federal farm support, weak grain prices, higher input prices and expected negative farm cash flows continued to weigh on banker confidence,” said Goss.  

Approximately, 62.5% of bank CEOs reported that the $12 billion Farm Bridge Assistance Program has had only a slightly positive to no impact on the rural economy.  

Below are the state reports: 
Nebraska: The state’s Rural Mainstreet Index for April jumped to 53.9 from 38.4 in March. The state’s farm and ranchland price index for April advanced to 54.4 from 52.8 in March. Nebraska’s new hiring index climbed to 54.8 from 47.3 in March. According to trade data from the ITA, Nebraska exports of agriculture goods and livestock for the first two months of 2026, compared to the same period in 2025, sank by 18.4% to $188.4 million. 

Iowa: April’s RMI for the state rose to 46.4, up from March’s 39.7. Iowa’s farm and ranchland price index for April fell to 46.4 from 51.0 in March. Iowa’s new hiring index for April declined to 46.3 from March’s 48.7. According to trade data from the ITA, Iowa exports of agriculture goods and livestock for the first two months of 2026, compared to the same period in 2025, climbed by 29.9% to $368.1 million. 

The survey represents an early snapshot of the economy of rural agriculturally- and energy-dependent portions of the nation. The Rural Mainstreet Index is a unique index that covers 10 regional states, focusing on approximately 200 rural communities with an average population of 1,300. The index provides the most current real-time analysis of the rural economy. Goss and the late Bill McQuillan, former Chairman of the Independent Community Banks of America, created the monthly economic survey and launched it in January 2006. 



RURAL NEBRASKANS FAVOR LOCAL ENERGY SOURCES, POLL SHOWS

Rural Nebraskans are more supportive of home- or community-based wind and solar production than large-scale production models, and more supportive overall of solar energy production versus wind, according to the 2025 Nebraska Rural Poll.

Fifty-six percent of rural Nebraskans surveyed support home-based systems for solar energy production, such as solar panels installed on private property and owned by the landowner. Fifty-one percent also support community-based production, which often works as cooperative models. In both cases, excess energy can often be sold to local power companies. But support for either home- or community-based wind production systems is mixed, with about equal preference for or against.

When it comes to large-scale operations, however, most respondents strongly or somewhat oppose large-scale energy production through wind (59%) and solar (52%). These operations are generally private companies that install wind turbines or solar panels on land leased from local landowners, and they supply electricity to an entire region.

“Rural Nebraskans’ preferences show a clear desire to keep energy production local,” said Heather Akin, assistant professor in the Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communication. “People are open to renewable energy, especially when it’s owned and operated close to home, where the benefits stay in the community. The hesitancy toward large-scale projects suggests that rural residents want to be sure those projects really serve local interests.”

Some regional differences exist when examining the support for these various energy production scenarios. Respondents in the north-central region tended to be least supportive of any of the scenarios, while those in the Panhandle were most likely to support each of the farm- or community-based systems.

When asked about positive and negative impacts of wind turbines, the poll found 53% of respondents believe they can create visual or aesthetic problems. Many respondents also agree that wind turbines cause other problems, such as harming birds and bats (48%) and creating noise pollution (46%). But many also agree they have positive impacts on job creation and economic benefits for local communities (45%).

Opinions are divided on whether wind turbines can help keep land in agriculture. Forty-two percent of rural Nebraskans surveyed are uncertain about that statement, while 33% disagree and just 24% agree.

“We see varying opinions about the impacts of wind turbines, which is likely contributing to the lower support for those energy production systems,” said Cheryl Burkhart-Kriesel, a Rural Prosperity Nebraska extension specialist based in the Panhandle. “Other than a general agreement that they’re aesthetically displeasing, these mixed opinions from region to region suggest that if wind energy is going to become more prevalent across the entire state, communities will need to start having open conversations about local priorities, land use and economic impact.”

Not many rural Nebraskans surveyed have direct experience with wind and solar energy production. Just 13% can see wind turbines from their home, or land they own or farm. Five percent own or lease solar panels. Only 3% can hear wind turbines from their home, or land they own or farm.

When considering whether to locate small wind turbines on their own land, to power a home, farm or ranch, most respondents rate factors such as the reliability of turbines or panels, the cost to install them, having backup power during outages, energy savings and fit in the landscape as very important:
> Reliability of turbines and/or panels (80%);
> Availability of a trusted installation and maintenance company (77%);
> Financial support to offset installation cost (72%);
> Provided power during main grid outages (70%);
> Amount of energy savings or income that turbines and/or panels would provide (63%);
> Turbines or panels fit in the local landscape (60%).

Thirty-three percent of respondents rate that turbines or panels would show their commitment to sustainability as very important.

“For most rural Nebraskans, renewable energy is still more of an idea than a personal experience,” said Becky Vogt, manager of the Rural Poll. “People are more interested in the practical benefits — reliability, cost savings, trusted service — than in symbolic or environmental reasons alone. As more residents see these technologies in action, confidence in their value within rural communities may continue to grow. That’s to be seen.”

To read the full report, “Rural Nebraskans’ Perspectives on Energy Resources,” visit the Rural Poll website.

The 2025 Nebraska Rural Poll marks the 30th year of tracking rural Nebraskans’ perceptions about policy and quality of life, making it the largest and longest-running poll of its kind. Last summer, questionnaires were mailed to more than 6,700 Nebraska households, with 943 households from 86 of the state’s 93 counties responding. The poll carries a margin of error of plus-or-minus 3%. Conducted by Rural Prosperity Nebraska with funding from Nebraska Extension, the Rural Poll provides three decades of data on the voices of rural Nebraskans. Current and past reports are available at https://ruralpoll.unl.edu.



Southeast Asia Agricultural Cooperators Conference Held In Thailand

Recently, the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC) held the Southeast Asia U.S. Agricultural Cooperators Conference (ACC) in Bangkok, Thailand in partnership with the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) and U.S. Wheat Associates (USW), bringing together the U.S. agricultural value chain and its partners across the Asia Pacific.

Under the theme “Building Trusted Partnerships, Delivering Value and Reliability,” this year’s edition underscored the enduring importance of trust, consistency and performance in global agricultural trade.

“At a time of evolving market dynamics, regulatory complexity and heightened focus on supply chain resilience, this gathering reaffirmed U.S. commitment to being a reliable, long-term partner to Southeast Asia’s food and feed industries,” said Mark Wilson, USGBC Chairman.

“Participants directly engaged with U.S. farmers, exporters, analysts and policy experts to exchange views on market access, logistics and sustainability, shaping the future of food and protein supply between the U.S. and Southeast Asia.”

Wilson attended the event along with USGBC President and CEO Ryan LeGrand, USGBC Regional Director for Southeast Asia & Oceania (SEA&O) Caleb Wurth, USGBC Deputy Regional Director for SEA&O Chris Markey and their regional team. USGBC Director for China Manuel Sanchez; USGBC Director for India Reece Cannady; USGBC Director for South Korea Haksoo Kim; and USGBC Director for Taiwan Michael Lu also brought customer delegations. USGBC state members were well represented, including delegates from the Iowa Corn Growers Association, the Nebraska Corn Growers Association and the United Sorghum Checkoff Program.

The conference began with a roundtable discussion featuring U.S. Ambassador to Thailand Sean O’Neill, who welcomed the cooperators to the country and offered an overview of factors impacting agricultural trade in Thailand.

Leaders from the organizing parties, including LeGrand and USSEC CEO Jim Sutter, then spoke about the market dynamics for the commodities they represent and the importance of building business relationships by delivering consistent value and reliability to customers.

Later that day, U.S. Department of Agriculture Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA FAS) officers based around the region shared their insights and experiences on evolving market demands.

The final day of the event included a panel discussion highlighting U.S. farmers and their perspectives on production and sustainability to reinforce the quality of U.S. feed grains.

Both days culminated in structured business-to-business sessions connecting more than 200 meetings between U.S. suppliers to international importers. Sales data resulting from these meetings will be tallied and released in a future Global Update edition.

“ACC is an annual connection showcasing U.S. agriculture’s longstanding and deeply valuable relationship in Asia that has been built over decades of trust and mutual benefit, and the Council remains committed to supporting the region’s growth, food security and resiliency goals,” Wurth said.



U.S. Dairy Consumption Holds Near Record Levels as Product "Disappearance" Reflects Strong Demand
Fred Hall, ISU Extension Dairy Field Specialist  

U.S. dairy consumption remains resilient in 2026, with recent data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) showing strong commercial disappearance and steady per capita intake across key categories. Despite shifting consumer preferences and economic pressures, dairy products continue to play a central role in American diets.

First, let me explain that, in agricultural commodity reporting, disappearance is a broad accounting measure of total supply usage, while consumption typically refers to the final ingestion of food by humans. Disappearance is often used as a proxy for consumption, but it is a broader, less precise term that includes waste, pet food, and industrial uses, whereas true consumption focuses only on edible intake.

According to USDA Economic Research Service (ERS) data updated in early 2026, total per capita dairy consumption reached approximately 651 pounds on a milk-fat basis in 2024, one of the highest levels recorded since tracking began in the 1970s. This measure—often referred to as "commercial disappearance"—captures the total volume of dairy products entering domestic markets.

Category Trends Show Diverging Consumption Patterns
Consumption trends vary by product category, highlighting evolving consumer preferences. Cheese continues to dominate dairy demand, with per capita consumption holding near record levels at roughly 40–42 pounds annually, with nearly 1.05 billion pounds in February alone. Disappearance rose 2.8 percent vs. February 2025, but revealed a significant slowdown compared to the most recent three months of data, all of which boasted year-over-year increases of over 4 percent. While slightly below the 2023 peak, cheese remains a cornerstone of U.S. dairy disappearance, supported by foodservice and retail demand.

Butter consumption has reached historic highs, climbing to approximately 6.8 pounds per person, reflecting increased consumer interest in natural fats and home cooking. Similarly, yogurt continues to gain traction, rising to about 14.5 pounds per capita, driven by demand for high-protein and gut-health-focused foods.

Other categories are also showing renewed strength. Cottage cheese consumption has rebounded to 2.4 pounds per person, its highest level in over a decade, while ice cream consumption has modestly increased to around 12 pounds per capita.

In contrast, fluid milk consumption continues its long-term decline, falling to approximately 127 pounds per person, reflecting decades of shifting beverage preferences and increased competition from alternative drinks.

Disappearance Data Signals Market Strength
USDA "disappearance" data indicate that overall demand remains firm even as individual product categories fluctuate. The USDA's dairy data systems, updated monthly and annually, show consistent utilization of milk fat and skim solids across product categories, reinforcing the role of dairy in both retail and food manufacturing channels.

At the same time, rising milk production is supporting availability. U.S. milk output reached more than 231 billion pounds in 2025, with continued growth expected into 2026 due to higher cow productivity and herd expansion. This ample supply has helped stabilize prices and ensure consistent product availability for consumers.

Outlook: Stable Demand with Shifting Preferences
Looking ahead, USDA reports suggest that dairy consumption will remain strong but increasingly shaped by product mix. Growth in butter, cheese, and high-protein dairy products is expected to offset ongoing declines in fluid milk consumption.

Market analysts note that consumer interest in protein-rich, minimally processed foods continues to support dairy demand, while economic factors and global supply conditions may influence pricing and export opportunities.

Overall, the 2026 USDA data underscore a clear trend: while Americans' dairy consumption is evolving, total dairy disappearance—and therefore demand—remains near historic highs, signaling continued strength for the U.S. dairy industry.



USMEF Statement on America First Trade Promotion Program Allocations

On April 16, the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) announced the 2026 America First Trade Promotion Program (AFTPP) funding allocations, which are key investments aimed at advancing U.S. agricultural exports.

U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) President and CEO Dan Halstrom issued this statement:

USMEF greatly appreciates the Trump administration’s efforts to expand U.S. agricultural exports through reciprocal trade agreements and other critical negotiations. But resources are also needed to capitalize on these agreements, and investments under the America First Trade Promotion Program will make it possible to further diversify our red meat export destinations and grow U.S. market share across the world.

When global opportunities expand for U.S. red meat, this translates to higher returns for farmers and ranchers and the entire U.S. supply chain. USMEF looks forward to continued collaboration with FAS to ensure successful implementation of the AFTPP, which is an excellent addition to USDA’s lineup of foreign market development programs. 



USGBC Receives USDA America First Trade Promotion Program Award

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s America First Trade Promotion Program (AFTPP) grant recipients were announced Thursday, and the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC) was among those agricultural organizations to receive an allocation. The initiative, funded under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and administered through the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA FAS), is designed to help U.S. agricultural exporters expand and diversify their global markets, build trust and leverage new trade opportunities.

The U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council offered the following response to the announcement:

“The U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council thanks USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins and Undersecretary Luke Lindberg and their team at FAS for the generous allocation. We will use it to grow and defend market share in established and emerging markets around the world for U.S. corn, sorghum, barley and their co-products, including our market development expansion of grain exports in the form of renewable bioethanol. AFTPP will help us drive global exports of our products and expand our reach to overseas destinations that were previously restricted under other market development grants. This will allow the highest amount of flexibility in finding homes for the products our U.S. farmers and producers offer, ultimately contributing to national prosperity that leads to a safer, stronger and more prosperous future for American agriculture.”
 


New Data Shows Continued Threat to Food Affordability Due to California Prop. 12
 
Equipped with brand new retail and U.S. Department of Agriculture data reinforcing California Proposition 12’s detrimental impacts on both producers and consumers, 105 American pork producers from 23 states took to Capitol Hill, advocating for their livelihoods with federal lawmakers.
 
Researchers at the North Dakota State University Agricultural Risk Policy Center found that Prop.12-driven price increases have persisted, even two years after the law was fully implemented. On average, prices for covered products are 20% higher due to Prop. 12, calculated by comparing price increases in California to the rest of the United States. Specifically, Prop 12 has driven prices for pork loins up 32%, ribs 22%, shoulders 16%, and bacon 16%, according to the latest data. 
 
Furthermore, California consumers have paid $350 million more for pork products while their consumption of pork has significantly declined due to Prop. 12. As food affordability worsens, Prop. 12 continues to create uncertainty on the farm and is driving an untenable state-by-state patchwork of animal housing laws. 
 
NPPC applauds the bipartisan Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 (commonly referred to as the Farm Bill 2.0) which gives assurances to family farms across the country by not allowing one state to determine farming practices for producers outside its state’s borders. 
 
“We’re all singing from the same songbook – real pork producers of all sizes. We need relief from a patchwork of state animal housing laws, which will surely be the nail in the coffin for a number of farms across the country,” said NPPC President Rob Brenneman, a pork producer from Washington, Iowa. “The mission is clear: We need Congress to exercise their authority and fix Prop. 12.”
 
A coalition of millions of agricultural producers and members has called on Congress to stop one state from forcing its laws on agricultural producers across the country. 
 
Veterinarians are also opposed to Prop. 12. The American Veterinary Medical Association says Prop. 12 does “not objectively improve animal welfare and may unintentionally cause harm.” 
 
The National Pork Producers Council and the 60,000+ farms it represents will continue leading the charge for producers to run their businesses free from out-of-state regulations.



USDA Seeks Nominees for the United Sorghum Checkoff Program Board
 
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is seeking nominees for the United Sorghum Checkoff Program Board to succeed five members with terms expiring in December 2026. Nominees are needed to succeed five members representing two at large members, one representing Kansas, one new representing from South Dakota (due to recent reapportionment), and one representing Texas. The deadline for nominations is June 1, 2026.

Sorghum producers within the United States who own or share in the ownership and risk of loss of sorghum production are eligible for nomination. A sorghum producer must be nominated by a certified producer organization and submit a completed application. The Secretary of Agriculture will select individuals from the nominations submitted.

The 13-member Sorghum Board was established to maintain and expand the market for sorghum. A list of certified producer organizations, nomination form, and information about the Sorghum Board are available on the AMS United Sorghum Checkoff Program web page and on the board’s website, www.sorghumcheckoff.com. For more information, contact Barbara Josselyn at (202) 713-6918 or Barbara.Josselyn@usda.gov.

Since 1966, Congress has authorized industry-funded research and promotion boards to provide a framework for agricultural industries to pool their resources and combine efforts to develop new markets, strengthen existing markets and conduct important research and promotion activities. AMS provides oversight of 21 boards. Oversight ensures fiscal accountability and program integrity and is paid for by industry assessments. 



Van Court promoted to Scoular President

Scoular announced today that Grain Division Vice President and General Manager Phil Van Court has been promoted to company president, effective June 1.  

David Faith currently has a dual role as president and chairman of the board. As part of structured succession planning, some of his responsibilities will transition to Van Court. Moving forward and for the foreseeable future, as Chairman, Faith will continue to focus on Scoular’s corporate governance.  

Van Court will transition from his current role to the president role this summer, reporting directly to Scoular CEO Paul Maass. He will support Maass in driving Scoular’s long-term enterprise direction, including capital allocation and support of growth strategies, board and governance leadership, and relationship-building with industry leaders, key customers, partners, and government officials. 

Van Court is the grandson of Scoular’s modern-day founder, the late Marshall Faith, and is David Faith’s nephew.  

Since he began his career at Scoular in 2003, Van Court has held many positions in a variety of locations. As a trainee, he learned the shuttle train business first-hand helping to load trains in Downs, Kansas. He also has worked as a merchandiser, facility manager, regional manager, vice president of operations, and has served as a Scoular Board director since 2013. Since 2021, Van Court has led the Grain Division’s facility operations, a network of more than 65 facilities primarily across Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, and Illinois. 

“Phil is a thoughtful, values-driven leader whose career journey speaks volumes about his commitment to Scoular’s employees, producers, partners and communities,” Maass said. “He considers it a great privilege to lead at Scoular, and David and I are excited to see him step into this new role.”