Monday November 17 Ag News - USDA Crop Production Estimate - Upcoming Grazing and Organic conferences - IA Cattle Convention - USMEF Recap - Lvst Disaster '23-'24 - Fertilizer Tariff action - and more!

Corn Production Down Less Than 1 Percent from September Forecast
Soybean Production Down 1 Percent
 
Corn production for grain is forecast at 16.8 billion bushels, down less than 1 percent from the previous forecast but up 12 percent from 2024. If realized, this would be the highest grain production on record for the United States. Based on conditions as of November 1, yields are expected to average a record high 186.0 bushels per acre, down 0.7 bushel from the previous forecast but up 6.7 bushels from last year. Area harvested for grain is forecast at 90.0 million acres, unchanged from the previous forecast but up 8 percent from the previous year. 

Nebraska: 10.3 mil acres harvested - 191 bu/acre - 1.967 bil bu total production
Iowa: 13 million acres harvested - 216 bu/acre - 2.8 bil bu total production 

Soybean production for beans is forecast at 4.25 billion bushels, down 1 percent from the previous forecast and down 3 percent from 2024. Based on conditions as of November 1, yields are expected to average a record high 53.0 bushels per acre, down 0.5 bushel from the previous forecast but up 2.3 bushels from 2024. Area harvested for beans in the United States is forecast at 80.3 million acres, unchanged from the previous forecast but down 7 percent from 2024. 

Nebraska: 4.8 mil acres harvested - 64 bu/acre - 307 mil bu total production 
Iowa: 9.38 mil acres harvested - 65 bu/acre - 609.7 mil bu total production 



Cover Crop Grazing Conference set for Nov. 21 in Clay Center

Nebraska beef producers and corn growers can gain practical insights to strengthen their operations at the 2025 Cover Crop Grazing Conference, scheduled for Friday, Nov. 21, at the Clay County Fairgrounds in Clay Center.

The conference runs from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 701 N. Martin and is designed for both first-time and experienced farmers interested in improving their cover crop grazing management and exploring alternative forage systems. Nebraska Extension will bring together University of Nebraska–Lincoln experts, industry professionals and producers for a full day of research-based information, hands-on tools and peer-to-peer learning.

The event begins with registration, refreshments and a trade show at 8:30 a.m., followed by welcome remarks from Nebraska Extension educator Connor Biehler.

Mary Drewnoski, beef systems specialist with Nebraska Extension, will lead the opening session at 9:10 a.m. on managing nitrates and prussic acid in forages. Drewnoski will discuss how to identify risks and use proven grazing and cattle management strategies to protect herd health while maximizing forage use.

At 10 a.m., UNL assistant professor Yijie Xiong will present “Virtual Fencing: Bringing Grazing into the Digital Age.” Xiong will explain how virtual fencing systems work, how to train cattle to the technology, and how producers can use digital tools to improve grazing flexibility and pasture efficiency.

A producer panel from 10:45 a.m. to noon will feature farmers and ranchers who have integrated cattle into cover crop systems. Panelists will share successes, challenges and lessons learned, offering candid, practical advice that producers can take home and apply.

Lunch, a trade show and a student poster session will take place from noon to 1 p.m., showcasing applied research from University of Nebraska–Lincoln students working on grazing, annual forages and integrated systems. Featured projects include evaluating virtual fence accuracy, performance gains from sunnhemp, biomass estimation tools and nutritional value of stockpiled forage seeds.

The conference will conclude with a 1:30 p.m. tour of the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center led by Lance Schutte, range and forage production manager. Participants will see winter grazing practices in action and learn how USMARC integrates cover crops and annual forages to support one of the nation’s largest integrated beef research herds.

“Nebraska Extension is uniquely positioned to bring producers the latest unbiased, research-based information,” organizers said. “This conference provides practical strategies producers can use immediately to improve forage utilization, manage risk and strengthen the resilience of their operations.”

Registration is $40, payable by cash or check at the conference. The fee includes lunch and refreshments. Checks should be made payable to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.

More information is available at https://enreec.unl.edu/CoverCropGrazingConference/ 



PUBLIC INVITED TO FOOD PROCESSING CENTER OPEN HOUSE ON NOV. 20

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Food Processing Center, 1901 N. 21st St., will host an open house from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 20. The event is free and open to the public.

Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the laboratories, offered every 15 minutes, where they can explore how the center’s faculty, staff and students support research, product development and business growth across the food industry. Tour guides will share how the center partners with companies and entrepreneurs across Nebraska on projects ranging from shelf-life and microbial studies to product development, labeling compliance and sensory analysis.

Guests can meet the people behind Nebraska’s food innovation engine; enjoy coffee, tea, hot chocolate and baked treats; and learn about the center’s equipment rental, consulting and testing services.



Nebraska Corn Board to Meet

The Nebraska Corn Board will hold its next meeting on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at The Cornhusker Marriott (333 South 13th Street) in Lincoln, Nebraska.

The meeting is open to the public, providing the opportunity for public comment. The board will conduct regular board business.

A copy of the agenda is available by writing to the Nebraska Corn Board, 245 Fallbrook Blvd. Suite 204, Lincoln, NE 68521, sending an email to NCB.info@nebraska.gov or by calling 402-471-2676.

The Nebraska Corn Board is funded through a producer checkoff investment of a one-cent-per-bushel checkoff on all corn marketed in the state and is managed by nine farmer directors. The mission of the Nebraska Corn Board to increase the value and sustainability of Nebraska corn through promotion, market development and research.




Organic Grain Production Topic of Dec. 2 Conference

An upcoming organic farming conference will assist growers thinking about transitioning to organic farming and those that are newly certified organic farmers. This one-day conference will focus on the certification process, crop management, and marketing for organic grain farms. Panel discussions with organic producers are included in the program.

The event will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 2 at the University of Nebraska Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center near Mead, Nebraska from 9 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. with registration beginning at 8:30 a.m. 

University of Nebraska Statewide Soil Health Extension Educator, Katja Koehler-Cole says, “Interest in organic farming is growing. Successful implementation involves careful planning, thorough recordkeeping, and certification. Through this event, we aim to provide helpful information on the process of attaining organic farm certification. We hope that this gathering will foster connections and community among both novice and veteran farmers, alongside agricultural professionals and researchers.” 

Registration, coffee, and vendor exhibits are open from 8:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. followed by the welcome with Katja Koehler-Cole. The first speaker is Karlin Warner with OneCert speaking on organic certification. Other topics include no-till organic corn production using a living mulch system with Ben Miller, Clear Frontier and a farmer panel featuring Nebraska farmers who will be sharing experiences from the transitional to the long-term organic farmer

Group discussions will allow participants to select what interests them most.  The topics will be repeated allowing participants to choose two from: Co-ops in the organic sectors; No-till agronomic management; Help NRCS and FSA help you!; and Marketing organic grains. 

The event will also include time for networking, vendor exhibits, and coffee at the end of the day.

There is no fee to attend, but please preregister by Nov. 25 for meal planning purposes (including lunch with locally sourced ingredients) and to ensure resource materials are available. Seating is limited.  Registration and more information available at: https://enreec.unl.edu/2025-transition-to-organic-farming-conference/.

Please direct questions to Katja Koehler-Cole at kkoehlercole2@unl.edu or (402)624-8042

For those interested in participating as an exhibitor at the conference, a link is available on the web page for reserving a table by Nov. 25.

Sponsored by Nebraska Extension and the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service - National Organic Program - Transition to Organic Partnership Program. 



2025 IOWA CATTLE INDUSTRY CONVENTION TO BE HELD DECEMBER 16 IN ALTOONA

The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association (ICA), the leading grassroots organization supporting Iowa’s beef cattle industry, invites cattle producers and industry supporters to attend the 2025 Iowa Cattle Industry Convention being held December 16 at the Meadows Event Center in Altoona, Iowa.

The Iowa Cattle Industry Convention is where innovators meet and businesses grow! The event offers an excellent opportunity for both those just starting out and those with years of experience to come together, network, and learn.

Following a successful event last year, ICA is excited to continue that momentum and has added significantly to the educational value of this year’s event. Beyond the keynote, participants will have more than nine sessions to choose from, allowing them to customize their learning experience to best fit their needs.

This year, ICA looks forward to welcoming Kevin Good with CattleFax to provide the keynote, Industry Situation Update and Outlook, where he’ll bring his more than 30 years of experience with CattleFax to share insights on the ever-changing global marketplace of the beef cattle industry.

Additionally, we have added Classrooms to Cattle, an opportunity for the next generation of our industry to get involved in the Iowa Cattle Industry Convention. Juniors, seniors, and college students interested in the cattle industry can attend a special educational track designed to help those getting their start in the industry. Students can attend complementary, thanks to support from the Iowa Cattlemen’s Foundation and Farm Credit Services. Space is limited.

Connection is key, and ICA has worked in a variety of networking opportunities. Guests will not want to miss out on our beef pairing experience, industry social, and entertainment. We are nearing a sold-out tradeshow and will have more than 30 industry partners on-site to share their products and services. For entertainment, we are bringing back the Iowa Cattlemen’s Foundation Auction. There will be many great items to choose from, with all proceeds supporting youth and other programs offered by the Iowa Cattlemen’s Foundation. Plan to stick around afterwards for live entertainment from Neil Hewitt.

ICA will host their Annual Meeting during the Iowa Cattle Industry Convention. Most of the policy development work was completed during the ICA Policy Summit this past September, which created time for additional educational opportunities at this year’s Convention. However, during the annual meeting, we will be voting and ratifying the policy recommendations from the Policy Summit.

“I want to encourage all members and those considering membership with the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association to attend this year’s Iowa Cattle Industry Convention to get a firsthand look at the value of our association,” said Bryan Whaley, ICA CEO. “We know this is a busy time of year, but your investment of time at the Convention will be well spent. Not only does this event provide educational sessions that offer something for everyone, but the industry connections are key. We are excited about the enhanced learning opportunities at this year’s event and building on the success of last year.” Registration and additional event details can be found at https://www.iacattlemen.org/events-meetings/iowa-cattle-industry-convention. ICA would like to thank our gracious sponsors (listed on the event webpage) for helping make this event successful.



USMEF Elects New Officers, Examines Reciprocal Trade Opportunities and USMCA Review

The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) concluded its Strategic Planning Conference Friday with election of its new officers. Chairing USMEF for the 2025-26 term is Jay Theiler, executive vice president of corporate affairs for Agri Beef Company, based in Boise, Idaho.

Theiler recalled his early days with Agri Beef, when the company came to realize that it could not maximize the value of each head of livestock processed by selling product only in the Pacific Northwest, or even in the entire United States.

“To get maximum value, we had to go to the international markets and include them in our sales,” Theiler said. “I did a lot of overseas trips in the early 2000s and many subsequent trips that laid the foundation for our success. When we traveled to Japan, Korea, China, Taiwan and Southeast Asia, we would meet with USMEF staff, who would paint a landscape of the distributors in the market and help us set up appointments and meetings. USMEF was really an integral part of our company story and our brand story. And I tell you this today because it may serve as an inspiration for others on how to grow your business and how USMEF can help.”

Looking forward, Theiler said differentiating the quality of U.S. red meat is essential to continued expansion of the global customer base.

“The world doesn’t just buy U.S. meat because it’s available – they buy it because it’s exceptional,” he said. “Our U.S. red meat brand means something – it is the gold standard for quality, taste, safety, sustainability and reliability. Our beef, pork and lamb is sought out as incomes around the world grow. But we can’t take this for granted and we must continue to invest in international marketing, especially as our global competitors increase their quality and aim to compete with us.”

While emphasizing the need to diversify export destinations, Theiler also noted the importance of defending hard-earned market share with established trading partners.

“We cannot take our long-standing partners for granted,” Theiler said. “Markets like Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Mexico are vital and have been reliable trading partners for decades. We must continue to protect and strengthen those relationships, and we must keep earning their confidence and trust.”

Theiler succeeds Steve Hanson, a rancher and cattle feeder from southwestern Nebraska, as USMEF chair. The USMEF chair-elect for the coming year is Dave Bruntz, who raises corn and soybeans and feeds cattle in southeastern Nebraska. Bruntz is a past president of the Nebraska Corn Board and Nebraska Cattlemen. The USMEF vice chair is Darin Parker, director of Salt Lake City-based exporter/distributor PMI Foods. The newest USMEF officer is Secretary-Treasurer Ross Havens, a cattle producer who serves as marketing coordinator for Nichols Farms in Bridgewater, Iowa.

Friday’s closing business session at the USMEF conference also included a staff panel discussion of opportunities that could emerge as a result of reciprocal trade agreements and frameworks announced by the Trump administration. The session focused mainly on two critical regions ‒ Europe and Southeast Asia (ASEAN). USMEF Vice President of Economic Analysis Erin Borror moderated the panel, which included Jihae Yang, vice president of Asia Pacific, Director of Export and Technical Services Courtney Heller and Jim Remcheck, director of export services.

Borror kicked off the discussion by sharing USMEF estimates of substantial additional export opportunities in the European Union (EU), the United Kingdom (UK) and several ASEAN countries if trade barriers ‒ tariff and non-tariff ‒ are addressed. From there, Borror and the panelists walked the audience through an array of trade barriers that continue to prevent the red meat industry from reaching its trade potential in specific markets within those regions.

“In the EU, we're still working on all of the trade issues that fall outside of the hormone ban that really shut things down back in 1989,” said Heller. “As we began working with the Trump administration, we detailed all the extra requirements that need removed to ease the process inside the packing plant, through labeling and putting product in containers to ship to the EU. And this is product that is raised specifically for the EU or the UK. It's highly specialized and costs at least $100 extra per head, or if we're talking about pork, about $60 more. So it's very difficult to send it anywhere else and get the same return on that investment.”

In the ASEAN region, U.S. beef faces tariff disadvantages because Australia and New Zealand, along with some other suppliers, have free trade agreements throughout the region. The U.S. also faces a host of non-tariff barriers.

“We have to chip away and tackle some of these technical market access barriers to trade that are really hindering our opportunities,” said Remcheck. “The single greatest barrier we face is the facility-by-facility approval and registration process. That's sort of an overarching, cross-cutting issue that we see throughout the region, and the primary thing keeping us from reaching our market potential.”

Yang agreed that protectionism is a serious problem in the ASEAN, and shared an example of how import permit processes can be abused to help protect local producers. Yang also highlighted two other aspects that hinder market development efforts in the region ‒ cold chain infrastructure and limited financial capacities of importers.

Yang also detailed U.S. red meat opportunities and several promotional initiatives that are contributing to the industry’s market development progress in the ASEAN region.

“You may remember that we had only two people on staff 25 years ago, and now we have 12 people in the region. That demonstrates how much we are penetrating into the market and developing our own programs to address market needs. Our strategy is supply chain development, not just in the foodservice sector, but also including distributors, retailers and further processors. The demand is there and our staff is there, working to build close working relationships with key trade partners.

Thursday’s general session focused on the upcoming review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and the importance of preserving duty-free access for U.S. pork, beef and lamb entering Mexico and Canada.

Kenneth Smith Ramos, a former lead negotiator for the Mexican government who was deeply involved in the negotiation and ratification of USMCA, detailed the mutual benefits USMCA has delivered for the agricultural sectors in both the United States and Mexico. The agreement has enhanced food security in both countries and bolstered the profitability of many agricultural sectors through free trade.

Smith, who is now a partner in the regulatory and trade consulting firm AGON, outlined the possible outcomes of the USMCA review, ranging from a very limited review to the threat of “rupture” if the agreement is reopened and the United States threatens to withdraw. He anticipates something in between, with portions of USMCA – some of which may be contentious – opened up for renegotiation.

“We see a complex USMCA review, but we do not see a scenario where there is an imminent collapse of the agreement,” he explained. “There will be turbulence, but we do not see the plane crashing.”

Smith added that it is critical for the U.S., Mexican and Canadian agricultural sectors to remain vigilant in explaining the benefits of USMCA and the importance of maintaining it as a trilateral pact.

John Masswohl, a veteran of many agricultural trade negotiations during his long career with the Canadian Cattle Association, struck similar themes as he analyzed USMCA from Canada’s perspective. He stressed the efficiencies that duty-free movement of meat and livestock between the U.S. and Canada have fostered and the importance of maintaining this environment.

“You have to ask yourself, if those [Canadian] cattle weren't coming into the U.S., what would the reality be?” Masswohl explained. “Would there really be a need for two major packing plants in the Pacific Northwest? Would there be a need for a packing plant in Utah? In some of these areas, some years, up to 30% of the kill is Canadian cattle. If they don’t have those facilities, are livestock producers prepared to ship their animals many hundreds more miles to be processed?”

Masswohl also questioned whether the U.S. truly has an agricultural trade deficit with Canada, citing per-capita consumption figures. He noted that (based on 2023 data) the average Canadian consumes more than $700 per year in U.S. agricultural goods, while Americans average only $118 in consumption of Canadian ag products.

“That tells me the Canadian market is pretty open, and that Canadians like American agricultural products,” he said. “If you scratch into what we are buying, we’re purchasing a lot of high-value U.S. items.”

Thursday’s program also included the presentation of USMEF’s Michael J. Mansfield Award to Ted McKinney, former USDA under secretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs. Dr. Dermot Hayes, who recently retired as an Iowa State University professor and continues to serve as a consulting economist for the pork industry, received the USMEF Distinguished Service Award. 


The next meeting of USMEF members will be at the organization’s Spring Conference in Oklahoma City, May 20-22.



USDA Extends Livestock Disaster Recovery Assistance Application Deadline for 2023 and 2024 Flood and Wildfire Losses 

The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) today announced that the deadline for livestock producers to apply for assistance through the Emergency Livestock Relief Program for 2023 and 2024 Flood and Wildfire (ELRP 2023 and 2024 FW) is being extended to Nov. 21, 2025. The program is expected to provide approximately $1 billion in recovery benefits to producers whose livelihoods were adversely impacted by disrupted feed availability and poor forage conditions following catastrophic floods and wildfires in 2023 and 2024.  

“We recognize, while FSA Service Centers were temporarily closed due to the government shutdown, livestock and dairy producers may not have had an opportunity to submit their applications for flood and wildfire recovery assistance,” said FSA Administrator Bill Beam. “As directed by Secretary Rollins, FSA county offices are now open and staffed five days a week to provide much needed economic support through essential safety-net and disaster assistance programs like the Emergency Livestock Relief Program. We are fully committed to ensuring farmers and ranchers once again have access to core FSA services and programs.”  

Qualifying Disaster Events  
To streamline program delivery, FSA determined eligible counties with qualifying floods and wildfires in 2023 and 2024. For losses in these counties, livestock producers are not required to submit supporting documentation for floods or wildfire. A list of approved counties is available at fsa.usda.gov/elrp.
 
For losses in other counties, livestock producers may still be eligible for ELRP 2023 and 2024 FW but must provide supporting documentation to demonstrate that a qualifying flood or wildfire occurred in the county where the livestock were physically located or would have been physically located if not for the disaster event.  FSA county committees will determine if the disaster event meets program requirements.   

Acceptable documentation includes: 
    Photographs documenting impact to livestock, land, or property
    Insurance documentation
    Emergency declaration reports
    News articles
    National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration storm event database records
    Other FSA disaster program participation records
    Other documentation determined acceptable by the FSA county committee  

Livestock and Producer Eligibility
For ELRP 2023 and 2024 FW, FSA is using covered livestock eligibility similar to the criteria for LFP which includes weaned beef cattle, dairy cattle, beefalo, buffalo, bison, alpacas, deer, elk, emus, equine, goats, llamas, ostriches, reindeer, and sheep.   
 
Wildfire assistance is available on non-federally managed land to participants who did not receive assistance through FSA’s Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) and ELRP 2023 and 2024 for drought and wildfire.  
 
Livestock producers can receive assistance for one or both years (2023 and 2024) and for multiple qualifying disaster events, if applicable. However, producers cannot exceed three months of assistance per producer, physical location county, and program year.   

Payment Calculation
Eligible producers can receive up to 60% of one month of calculated feed costs for a qualifying wildfire or three months for a qualifying flood using the same monthly feed cost calculation that is used for LFP.    
 
ELRP 2023 and 2024 for drought and wildfire and ELRP 2023 and 2024 FW have a combined payment limit of $125,000 for each program year. Producers who already received the maximum payment amount from ELRP 2023 and 2024 for drought and wildfire will not be eligible to receive an additional payment under ELRP 2023 and 2024 FW. Eligible producers may submit an FSA-510, Request for an Exception to the $125,000 Payment Limitation for Certain Programs, to be eligible for an increased payment limitation of $250,000, as applicable.    

More Information 
To learn more about FSA programs and schedule an appointment, producers can contact their local USDA Service Center. 



ASA Grateful for Executive Order Action to Reduce Fertilizer Costs

The American Soybean Association thanked President Trump for his Executive Order action Friday to amend the scope of reciprocal tariffs, which will remove duties on critical fertilizers used for soybean production. Farm production and input costs continue to strain farm margins and ensuring certain products are not impacted by reciprocal tariffs will reduce the cost of the key fertilizers used by soybean farmers.

Executive Order 14257 amends the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States by adding diammonia and monoammonia phosphates (DAP and MAP) as well as potassium chloride (potash) to the annex of products not subject to tariff duties.

“Soybean farmers are currently making difficult financial decisions as they plan for next year’s planting after a harvest season full of challenges,” said Caleb Ragland, ASA president and Kentucky soybean farmer. “Today’s action by President Trump will help lower costs for one key component of soybean production. U.S. soybean farmers are grateful that the administration has acted to ensure DAP, MAP, and potash will no longer face import duties.”



Statement on Tariff Rollback on Fertilizers

Farmers for Free Trade Friday released the following statement from Board Chairman Bob Hemesath, a fifth generation Iowa producer with a 2800 acre corn crop, 40,000 head hog operation, on the President's announced rollback on certain fertilizer tariffs. Farmers for Free Trade recently completed a 8,000 mile tour of farm country as part of the Motorcade for Trade. Along the way, the need for a rollback of tariffs on ag inputs, including fertilizers, ag equipment, chemicals and various steel and aluminum products was a common refrain from farmers. Farmers for Free Trade released a report that included the top priorities for farmers from the tour noting the need for reductions on tariffs for ag inputs. 

“We are pleased that President Trump has seen fit to rollback his tariffs on fertilizers. American farmers have been hammered by high input costs which has pushed rural America into a major farm crisis. Farmers also need to see a rollback in tariffs on all farm inputs including farm chemicals, tractor parts, and steel and aluminum used for grain bins, fencing, and farm equipment.”



U.S. Dairy Praises Latin American Trade Frameworks

The U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) and the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) praised yesterday’s announcement of new trade frameworks with Argentina, Ecuador, El Salvador and Guatemala which collectively position U.S. dairy exporters for further gains in the Western Hemisphere. 

“U.S. dairy exports to U.S.-Central America-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement partners have almost doubled over the past five years. The frameworks the administration has negotiated with Guatemala and El Salvador position our exporters to really capitalize on that landscape during the first duty-free year of dairy trade under the CAFTA-DR trade agreement by ensuring that nontariff trade barriers don’t slow our progress,” said Gregg Doud, president and CEO of NMPF. “Non-tariff barriers tend to sprout up like weeds when tariffs disappear, which is why these commitments are so important in this region. The nontariff commitments announced with Argentina and Ecuador also may help resolve multiple long-standing issues in those markets. Dairy farmers look forward to seeing the details on them as well as on the tariff commitments the deals include.”

“The U.S. Dairy Export Council has been keenly focused on maximizing export opportunities into our FTA partner markets so that we make the most of markets where we have a level playing field against other competitors. Central America has been a key part of that strategy of growing our exports of cheese and other dairy products and creating partnerships that have been crucial to the economic wellbeing of our dairy farmers, which is why these frameworks with Guatemala and El Salvador are particularly welcome,” said Krysta Harden, president and CEO of USDEC. “Ecuador has the potential to be a good market, but too often nontariff barriers have impeded access to this and other markets where opportunities exist. The commitments the administration has secured on these topics in Latin America are crucial to avoiding those problems. Dairy exporters and farmers hope that the Argentina and Ecuador deals will deliver predictable access and also include additional market access, especially for dairy ingredients and cheese.”

The U.S.-Central America-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) has delivered important gains for U.S. dairy exporters in Central America. This year marked the point at which all CAFTA-DR dairy tariffs were finally eliminated. Under the frameworks announced today, El Salvador and Guatemala will provide valuable new nontariff commitments to allow U.S. dairy exporters to fully capitalize on those FTA opportunities including expediting product registration requirements for U.S. exports, removing apostille requirements, committing to continue accepting currently-agreed dairy certificate, ensuring that market access for U.S. agricultural exporters will not be restricted due to the mere use of certain cheese terms, and assurances of transparency and fairness regarding geographical indications. 

The framework with Argentina included commitments to not require facility registration for U.S. dairy products, not restrict market access for products that use certain cheese terms, and provide preferential market access for “a wide range of [U.S.] agricultural products”. 

The framework with Ecuador included commitments to reform its import licensing and facility registration systems for food and agricultural products, not restrict market access due to the use of certain cheese terms, and “reduce or eliminate tariffs…[for] certain agricultural products [and] establish tariff-rate quotas on a number of other agricultural goods”. 

U.S. dairy exports last year to Guatemala and El Salvador totaled $127 million and $50 million respectively. U.S. dairy sales to Ecuador and Argentina have to date been much more limited due in key part to the lack of a bilateral trade agreement with either partner; exports amounted to only $6 million and $3 million respectively last year. 




U.S. Wheat Associates Welcomes Trump Administration Efforts to Expand Agricultural Trade with Latin America

U.S. Wheat Associates (USW) commends the Trump Administration on the announcement of framework agreements on trade with Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala and Argentina. The deals seek to provide preferential access for some U.S. agricultural products, including wheat, and strengthen cooperation on science-based decision-making and non-tariff trade barriers. 

“We welcome the efforts of the Trump Administration to expand agricultural trade with Latin America,” said Mike Spier, USW president and CEO. “We are particularly heartened by the Trump administration’s assertion that access will be on preferential terms. In particular, we look to our partners in the U.S. government to finalize the details of preferential access for U.S. wheat into Ecuador on a permanent and preferential basis.”

Ecuador represents a growing market with a rapidly rising need for wheat driven by both human consumption and a burgeoning animal feed industry. In the 2024/25 marketing year, Ecuador more than quadrupled imports of U.S. wheat year-over-year to more than 380,000 metric tons (nearly 14 million bushels), including U.S. hard red winter (HRW), soft white (SW) and soft red winter (SRW) wheat. As of September 25, 2025, Ecuador has purchased 357,000 MT (13.1 million bushels) of U.S. wheat. 

El Salvador and Guatemala are also meaningful markets. U.S. wheat is well-positioned to serve these markets due to close proximity, but sales can be limited by aggressive competition from suppliers like Canada and Russia. While these markets are already duty free for all origins, continued cooperation on non-tariff barriers can benefit both U.S. producers and end-use customers who seek high-quality wheat supplies with consistent milling and baking performance.  

“USW remains committed to supporting trade deals structured to provide meaningful and preferential access for U.S. wheat exports,” Spier said. “As we observe the implementation of previous trade deals, market access gains for U.S. agricultural exports have, in certain instances, been followed shortly thereafter with similar access being granted to our competitors - diminishing the full returns realized by U.S. farmers.” 

Argentina is a competing wheat supplier in the global marketplace, accounting for seven percent of world wheat exports in the last marketing year. Still, Argentina is an important partner for defending open markets and international standards at fora like the World Trade Organization, especially on issues related to sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) regulations. 

“While Argentina is our competitor for selling wheat, they are a partner in communicating the importance of upholding farmer access to technological innovations and opposing regulatory barriers lacking sufficient scientific justification,” Spier said. “USW applauds the focus on non-tariff barriers across all four of these markets, including an emphasis on science-based decision-making. We look forward to continued conversations and collaboration with our customers and the U.S. government to lock in sustained market opportunities for U.S. wheat farmers.”  



Record Crowd Attends 98th National FFA Convention & Expo, Celebrating Agricultural Education and Leadership

A record-setting 73,000-plus attendees came to Indianapolis this year from across the country to attend the 98th National FFA Convention & Expo. The event brought together tens of thousands of members, alumni and supporters of the National FFA Organization, a school-based national youth leadership development organization with more than 1,042,245 student members in 9,407 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. 

FFA transforms the lives of middle and high school students through a combination of hands-on agricultural education, work-based learning, and leadership and life skills development. The annual convention offers attendees the opportunity to explore careers, celebrate their achievements, participate in service projects, and more. 

“Each year, the National FFA Convention & Expo reminds us of the incredible power of young leaders united by purpose, and this year was truly one for the record books,” said Christine White, National FFA Chief Program Officer. “Welcoming more than 73,000 attendees to Indianapolis, we not only celebrated agricultural education but also witnessed members actively living our mission through service, learning and leadership. The energy, commitment and spirit we saw this week will ripple far beyond Indianapolis and last month’s event.”

More than 3,000 FFA members participated in 28 off-site service projects around central Indiana, serving at local nonprofits to give back to the host city of Indianapolis. Many more also participated in an on-site service project in the Expo Hall, braiding more than 70,000 feet of paracord to make 1,541 dog leashes for IndyHumane. 

Also at the Expo Hall, members had the opportunity to meet more than 300 exhibitors representing a wide range of industries, learning about more than 350 careers in agriculture. FFA members also participated in off-site Career Success Tours, where they met community members and learned about their businesses. More than 13,000 students and teachers participated in 141 workshops, comprising 39 teacher workshops and 102 student workshops. 

Two major announcements were made during this year’s event. During the kickoff event, National FFA announced that the National FFA Convention & Expo will continue to be held in Indianapolis through at least 2040, making the conference the furthest-out booked convention in the city. Each year, the National FFA Convention & Expo brings an estimated $40 million in economic impact to Indianapolis. Then, during the final session of the convention, the 2025-26 National FFA Officers were announced. This team of six will lead the organization for the next year:

    Trey Myers of Oklahoma was elected national president. He is a former member of the Perkins Tryon FFA Chapter.

    Lilly Nyland of Michigan was elected national secretary. She is a former member of the Careerline Tech Center FFA Chapter.

    Joey Nowotny of Delaware was elected eastern region vice president. He is a former member of the Laurel FFA Chapter.

    Jael Cruikshank of Oregon was elected western region vice president. She is a former member of the Bend FFA Chapter.

    T. Wayne Williams of Tennessee was elected southern region vice president. He is a former member of the Woodbury FFA Chapter.

    Claire Woeppel of Nebraska was elected central region vice president. She is a former member of the Chambers FFA Chapter.


Additionally, 5,161 American FFA Degrees and 245 Honorary American FFA Degrees were awarded on stage in Lucas Oil Stadium.

The 99th National Convention & Expo will take place in Indianapolis from Oct. 21-24, 2026. Visit convention.ffa.org for more information.

Thursday November 13 Ag News - NE NE Ag Conf Dec 16th - Record-keeping basics webinar - ISU Updates Pesticide Training Materials - Fertilizer Prices Mixed - Government Shutdown Ends - and more!

 Second Annual Northeast Nebraska Ag Conference Slated for Tuesday, December 16th

The second annual Northeast Nebraska Ag Conference (NNAC) will be held Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at Northeast Community College in Norfolk. The all-day conference will begin with registration at 8:00 a.m. and closing comments and door prizes wrapping up the event around 4:00 p.m. The NNAC is co-hosted by the Bazile Groundwater Management Area Project (BGMA) and Bow Creek Watershed Project. 

All producers are invited to join in this dynamic event which was created for the purpose of exchanging practical farm and ranch ideas that will not only help protect water quality but also improve the bottom line. Learn from others who are increasing their operations financial stability and environmental stewardship.

This conference has something for everyone whether you are interested in new management practices or an innovative farmer who has already been implementing them. Concurrent breakout sessions allow each attendee to choose the sessions that best meet their needs. Industry leading speakers, paired with experienced producers, will discuss hot ag topics from theory to practical application and technology integration. Don’t miss out on this exciting event!

Hear from Keynote Speaker John Kempf – Founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture and host of the Regenerative Agriculture Podcast – about advancements in managing nitrates, exciting new discoveries on how plants get nutrition, and what that means for producers. The ‘Making it Work Here’ producer panel features local producers sharing how they are implementing these ideas on the farm. 

Registration for the event is now open! Early Bird Registration tickets can be purchased until December 9th for $20. Late registrations and walk-ins will be $50. A hot lunch will be provided. Nitrogen Certification and CEUs are also available for attendees. Register now at: https://bit.ly/NNAC2025

Gold Level Sponsors for the 2025 Northeast Nebraska Ag Conference include: Papio-Missouri River NRD, Green Cover, Advancing Eco Ag, Ward Lab Inc., J-Tech Construction and Solar, and Corteva. 



CAP Webinar: Financial Record Keeping Basics for Farmers and Ranchers
Nov 20, 2025 12:00 PM 
Shannon Sand, Extension Agricultural Economist, UNL Center for Agricultural Profitability

Good financial record keeping is the foundation of a successful farm or ranch business. Accurate, up-to-date records help producers understand their true cost of production, track income, and expenses, and make informed management decisions. Having organized financial records also simplifies tax preparation, loan applications, and risk management planning. Whether using paper ledgers, spreadsheets, or software tools, consistency is key regularly recording transactions ensures the information is reliable and useful for evaluating profitability and planning for the future. This webinar will go over the basics of record keeping and discuss how the information can be used to make management decisions.

Miss the live webinar or want to review it again? Recordings are available — typically within 24 hours of the live webinar — in the archive section of the Center for Agricultural Profitability's webinar page, https://cap.unl.edu/webinars. You can also use this link to register for this an other upcoming webinars.



Strong Beef Prices Make Now a Good Time for Ranchers to Consider Irrigation Investment

With historically strong beef prices driving profitability for many ranchers in 2025, now may be the ideal time to reinvest in their operations by enhancing feed grain, hay, and pasture production by adding center pivot irrigation.

Strategic irrigation investments can significantly increase on-farm feed production and quality while providing an effective solution for wastewater management and distribution.

“Beef cattle returns this year have created a tremendous opportunity for ranchers to add irrigation systems that help them consistently protect and improve feed production potential for years to come,” said John Thom, vice president of T-L Irrigation. “As a result, our dealers are seeing a noticeable increase in interest from ranchers who want to know which irrigation systems best fit their operations.”

According to Thom, a center pivot offers multiple advantages for ranchers, including more dependable feed production, higher yield potential, improved forage quality, and reduced dependence on purchased feed. In addition, T-L’s hydrostatically powered center pivots can efficiently manage and apply wastewater – a valuable resource for many cattle operations.

“T-L’s hydrostatically powered center pivots, featuring continuous movement and advanced technology for control, convenience, and performance, help cattlemen protect yields, increase efficiency, and maximize return on investment,” Thom added. “Given today’s strong cattle market and favorable financial conditions, this may be the ideal time to invest in irrigation, especially considering potential end-of-year tax benefits.”

Beef producers interested in exploring irrigation solutions tailored to their operation can contact their local T-L Irrigation dealer to discuss the best system for their production goals.



Platte Valley Cattlemen Monthly Meeting is Nov 17 

The next meeting of the Platte Valley Cattlemen will be held on Monday November 17th at Wunderlich's Catering in Columbus.  Social hour is at 6pm, with the meal to follow at 7pm.  Franzen Simmentals and Allied Genetic Resources are sponsoring the meal.

November is the annual cow-calf meeting, so JR Tait will talk about the work he's done alongside Dr Mahdi Saatchi for Allied Genetics.  He will talk about research they do through DNA in the Right Mate and Right Choice programs in predicting the best matings for AI, and helping find a herd bull that matches the cows the best.  

Hope to see you there Monday evening! 



NE Corn Growers Assoc Seeks Board Candidates

The Nebraska Corn Growers Association is seeking candidates for two at-large positions to serve on the board of directors. The at-large positions serve for a 3-year term. If you have an interest in furthering your service to Nebraska’s corn industry and are a current member of the Nebraska Corn Growers Association, please contact me at (308) 830-3889.

As a candidate, your name will be placed on the ballot for delegates of the association to vote from during our upcoming Annual Meeting. The Annual Meeting is scheduled for January 8, 2026 in York, Neb. at the Holthus Convention Center (3130 Holen Ave, York, NE 68467). Candidates will have an opportunity to address the delegates with a short introduction of themselves and why they want to be active on the board of directors, thus plan to attend the Annual Meeting.

If elected to serve, the board of directors usually meet in person 2-3 times per year, with 2-3 conference calls as needed to conduct and address business of the board. The board of directors will meet following the Annual Meeting and lunch/speakers the same day – January 8th.

If you have questions, or are interested in being a candidate, please call NeCGA Chairman Chris Grams by December 30, 2025. 

Please consider your service to the industry.



HUSKER RESEARCH TO FOCUS ON SORGHUM GENE FUNCTIONS, REGULATION

With a three-year, $1.6 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Chi Zhang, Edgar Cahoon and Bin Yu will focus on the genome-wide identification of small gene fragments called microexons to advance knowledge on gene functions and regulation for oil accumulation and stress response in sorghum.

Sorghum is the fifth most important cereal grain globally, valued for its nutritional benefits and used as food, feed stock and for biofuels. In the United States, it is the third-largest cereal grain produced and is often grown in dryland areas because of its drought resistance. The Department of Energy’s focus on sorghum is as a biomass energy feedstock.

Microexons are miniscule coding elements in a gene, containing from one to 15 nucleotides, the basic building blocks in DNA; the regular exons can contain dozens or hundreds. Because they are so small and difficult to detect, microexons had been largely overlooked in plant genome research. That has consequences, because altering or omitting even one nucleotide in a gene can change an entire protein sequence, which can affect phenotypic expression.

Zhang and his colleagues began studying microexons five years ago and published their first paper on the subject in Nature Communications in 2022, which provided an extensive overview of microexons in plants. Their prior work also resulted in a publicly available database of microexons in plants.

The proposed work builds directly on their accomplishments in genomics and transcriptome analysis. Having established foundational methodologies and analytical frameworks for identifying and characterizing microexons in plants, they will extend the research, integrate new experimental data and apply advanced computational models to discover regulatory mechanisms in sorghum.

“The insights and tools developed in our earlier work provide the technical infrastructure and biological context necessary for the success of this new phase,” Zhang said.

Zhang and Cahoon, professor of biochemistry, and Yu, professor in the School of Biological Sciences, collaborate as members of the Center for Plant Science Innovation. The project integrates their expertise in multiple disciplines, including bioinformatics, genetics, biochemistry, plant biology and RNA biology. Zhang, who will lead the project, is an expert in genomics, transcriptome data analysis and bioinformatics and will coordinate the integration of the computational and experimental approaches.

Cahoon, director of the Center for Plant Science Innovation and an expert in plant lipid metabolism and sorghum biochemistry, contributes extensive experience in large-scale data generation and functional validation. Building on previous collaborations on a gene in sorghum, he will focus on experimental analysis of sorghum phenotypes related to the discovered microexons. Yu, who specializes in RNA biology and epigenetics, will work on method development and bring complementary strengths in RNA metabolism and experimental validation.

“This coordinated effort will ensure computational rigor and biological relevance throughout the study,” Zhang said.

The resulting knowledge and resources will enable breeding and engineering of crops that are better equipped to thrive in variable climates, strengthening sustainable bioenergy production and agricultural productivity.



Nebraska Wheat Board Seeking Funding Proposals for Fiscal Year 2026-2027

The Nebraska Wheat Board (NWB) is now accepting funding proposals for consideration in the 2026-2027 fiscal year. Organizations, institutions and stakeholders are invited to submit proposals that support the board’s mission to promote the profitability and sustainability of Nebraska’s wheat industry through research, market development, and education.

Proposals must be submitted no later than 5:00 p.m. Central Time on Thursday, January 15, 2026. Submissions should be provided in the form of a proposal, not a contract, and must clearly outline the planned activities, goals, and objectives that align with the NWB’s mission.

The NWB will conduct its first review of proposals in February, with a second review and final funding announcements in June.

Questions regarding the proposal process or submission guidelines can be directed to the Nebraska Wheat Board office.

The Nebraska Wheat Board administers the excise tax of 0.5% of net value of wheat marketed in Nebraska at the point of first sale. The board invests the funds in programs of international and domestic market development and improvement, policy development, research, promotion, and education.



ISU Extension Revises Pesticide Training Materials Ahead of 2026 Iowa Rule Changes

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship will implement updated pesticide applicator certification and training rules beginning Jan. 1, 2026. In preparation for the new rules, the Iowa State University Pesticide Safety Education Program is revising several applicator manuals and exams to ensure compliance and provide accurate resources for commercial and private pesticide applicators.

“When manuals have major revisions, certification exams administered by IDALS are also revised to include the updated information,” said Betsy Danielson, PSEP program specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach. Updated study materials and training manuals will be available through the ISU Extension Store https://shop.iastate.edu/search?q=CS&search-button=&lang=default. Additional information about Iowa’s applicator licensing, certification and training requirements is available on the IDALS website https://iowaagriculture.gov/pesticide-bureau/applicator-licensing-certification.

Commercial pesticide applicators
Iowa Core Manual (CS445)
    If testing occurs before Dec. 31, 2025, exams will be based on the Iowa Core Manual (CS445), available in both print and PDF formats, with a blue cover.
    New exams based on the revised manual will be used at all IDALS test sites beginning Jan. 1, 2026. The manual will be available mid-December and will have a tan cover.

Certified Handlers Manual (IC500)
    If testing occurs before Dec. 31, 2025, exams will be based on the Certified Handlers Manual (IC500).
    From Jan. 1, 2026, through March 2026, no Certified Handler exams will be administered by IDALS. Certified Handler applicants must pass the Iowa Core exam using the revised Iowa Core Manual (CS445) with the tan cover during this time.
    The revised Certified Handlers Manual (CS500) is expected to be available mid-March 2026, with new exams tentatively scheduled for April 1, 2026.

Soil Fumigation (Category 12)
    Effective Jan. 1, 2026, IDALS will introduce Category 12, Soil Fumigation, for individuals using or supervising the use of gaseous pesticides in soil.
    Applicators must pass an exam based on the new National Soil Fumigation Manual. Availability of this manual will be announced at a later date.

Private pesticide applicators
Private Pesticide Applicator Manual (CS1)
    An insert containing the new rules will be added to the Private Applicator Manual (CS1) mid-December 2025. Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, all IDALS exams will include content from this insert.
    Unproctored online exams, which were permitted due to the COVID-19 pandemic, will be discontinued after Dec. 31, 2025. Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, proctored online exams will be available through Everblue.

For more information, review the IDALS website or the ISU Pesticide Safety Education Program website https://www.extension.iastate.edu/psep/. Further questions can be directed to Danielson at betsydan@iastate.edu.



Anhydrous Again Leads Half of Retail Fertilizer Prices Higher

Average retail prices for four of the eight major fertilizers were higher than last month, while prices for the other four were lower during the first week of November 2025, according to sellers surveyed by DTN.

Only one fertilizer saw a significant price move, which DTN designates as anything 5% or more. The average retail price of anhydrous was up 5% from a month ago at $858 per ton. Three other fertilizers had slightly higher prices. DAP had an average price of $926/ton, MAP $930/ton and potash $489/ton.

The average prices of the four remaining fertilizers were down slightly from last month. Urea had an average price of $597/ton, 10-34-0 $666/ton, UAN28 $414/ton and UAN32 $465/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was $0.65/lb.N, anhydrous $0.52/lb.N, UAN28 $0.74/lb.N and UAN32 $0.73/lb.N.

Prices for all eight fertilizers are now higher compared to one year earlier. The last holdout, potash, is now 10% higher. 10-34-0 is also 10% more expensive, MAP is 15% higher, urea is 20% more expensive, anhydrous is 21% higher, DAP is 25% more expensive, UAN32 is 28% higher and UAN28 is 29% more expensive looking back to last year.



Despite Volatility, Optimism Reigns at USMEF Conference in Indianapolis

Although the U.S. red meat industry faces significant obstacles in the international marketplace, demand remains robust in many key destinations where customers crave the quality and consistency of U.S. pork, beef and lamb. This was the prevailing message delivered by U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) President and CEO Dan Halstrom at the USMEF Strategic Planning Conference, which opened Wednesday in Indianapolis.

Halstrom noted that pork exports are modestly below last year’s record pace, but the gap stems mostly from a period early this year when China’s retaliatory tariffs escalated and the U.S. industry faced uncertainty about plant eligibility. Although export data is only available through July due to the government shutdown, pork shipments are on record pace to leading market Mexico, as well as to Central America and Colombia.

Beef exports have been hit harder by barriers in China, where U.S. beef not only faces retaliatory tariffs, but also unwarranted plant delistings and China’s failure to renew registrations for the vast majority of U.S. beef plants and cold storage facilities. Halstrom emphasized that fully reopening the world’s largest beef import market to U.S. beef will require several actions on China’s part, and the lockout could extend into next year.

“This is obviously a political card that’s being held by the China side,” Halstrom said. “One thing I’m very confident in is that [the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative] is well aware of our position, well aware of what’s involved, and very well-informed. I do think they’ll get it worked out eventually, I just can't tell you when – no one can.”

While ongoing negotiations with several trading partners may lead to new opportunities for U.S. red meat, especially in Southeast Asia, Halstrom stressed that protecting and defending existing free trade agreements is an urgent priority. He noted that over the past decade, red meat exports to FTA partner countries have expanded by more than 30%, and exports to these destinations now account for 76% of total shipments.

Invoking the Paul Harvey quote, “In times like these, it helps to recall that there have always been times like these,” Halstrom reminded USMEF members that the industry has endured tremendous trade setbacks in the past – citing examples such as widespread market closures due to bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) and plunging consumer confidence and buying power in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis.

“Remember that we overcame all those obstacles,” Halstrom said. “I believe that with the knowledge in this room, and with continued cooperation and collaboration, we can overcome anything.”

Following Halstrom’s remarks, keynote speaker Jan Lambregts, head of RaboResearch Global Economics & Markets, offered a broad overview of the global economic situation and how it has been impacted by various economic policies embraced by the United States, China, the European Union and Russia.

Lambregts delivered insights into recent geopolitical developments and international trade policy through the perspective of a high-stakes poker game. In examining “who holds the cards,” his presentation discussed the macro strategies of the world’s economic and political powers, with a particular emphasis on the complexities of the U.S.-China trade relationship.

“I'm not quite sure if you will like this news, but I don't think there will be a comprehensive deal coming soon between China and the United States,” Lambregts said. “What the U.S. is demanding is access to Chinese markets. What China will never give is access to the Chinese market because that's not how they've been winning in trade during the past 30-40 years.”

Lambregts says that while the U.S. is currently working to isolate China, both countries are playing for time. China has been cut off from high-end semiconductors, which he called “the lifeline of the 21st century,” and needs time to develop its own semiconductor sector. Similarly, the U.S. needs time to build its rare earths capacity, including development of extraction and processing capabilities.

“In the meantime, the U.S. is basically sending all its allies the same message: What was previously free defense now must be paid for, because we (the U.S.) need to be compensated. And by the way, if you want to trade with China, there are conditions now,” said Lambregts.

Lambregts also addressed U.S. financial support for Argentina, which critics argue could harm U.S. exports, particularly of soybeans and other agricultural products.

“It was a mismanaged move, I would say,” Lambregts explained. “The Trump administration considers (Argentine President Javier) Milei a U.S. ally, and he wanted Milei to do well in the elections. But this deal had a little bit of a hasty feel to it, and now you see unintended consequences.”

The USMEF Strategic Planning Conference continues Thursday with an in-depth look at the upcoming review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, which maintained duty-free access for U.S. red meat in Mexico and Canada, helping to bolster demand in both markets. USMEF will also present its Michael J. Mansfield Award to Ted McKinney, former USDA under secretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs. Dr. Dermot Hayes, who recently retired as an Iowa State University professor and continues to serve as a consulting economist for the pork industry, will receive the USMEF Distinguished Service Award. 

The conference will conclude Friday with a panel discussion on global trade dynamics and potential new opportunities for red meat exports, followed by election of USMEF’s 2025-26 officer team. 



NCGA Statement on Government Reopening, Action Needed on E-15

The U.S. House of Representatives voted tonight on a continuing resolution and three full-fiscal year appropriations bills. The full U.S. Senate passed the measure on Monday.

The continuing resolution reopens the federal government through January and included the agriculture appropriations bill, which will largely fund USDA programs through September 30, 2026. Several expiring  farm bill programs and provisions, including key energy programs, were extended without additional funding, highlighting the need for a full farm bill reauthorization this Congress.

In response to today’s development, Ohio farmer and National Corn Growers Association President Jed Bower released the following statement:

“The actions from Congress come as a relief to the nation’s corn growers who use  federal programs for farm loans, grants and technical assistance.

“Corn growers also see today’s development as an inflection point. We are approaching year’s end, and, despite opportunities to do so, Congress has not voted on legislation that would allow consumers across the country to access E15 year-round. Passage of this legislation would bolster the nation’s energy security, save drivers money at the pump and help corn growers considerably by increasing demand. We strongly urge Congress to pass this legislation right away and will continue our meetings with members of Congress to call for action.”



Cattle Producers Pleased to See Government Reopen

Wednesday, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane released the following statement in response to Congress passing a Continuing Resolution to end the government shutdown:
 
“American cattle producers need the federal government running at full capacity to provide critical services and market data. We thank Speaker Johnson and Majority Leader Thune for passing the funding package to end the shutdown and extend the Farm Bill. While we’re grateful to the Trump administration for easing the burden of the shutdown on producers, it still caused widespread disruptions, and we are glad it is now resolved.” 



Farm Bureau Commends House Vote to End Shutdown

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on the House vote to end the government shutdown.

“Farm Bureau applauds the House for its vote to end the government shutdown, swiftly following the Senate’s vote. Farmers and ranchers rely on critical USDA services and disaster relief programs during these tough economic times, as do Americans who need access to food assistance programs and other services.

“We urge President Trump to quickly sign the continuing resolution so Congress can return its focus to policies that will improve the farm economy and expand opportunities for America’s farm families.” 



NFU Statement on Congressional Action to End Government Shutdown and Extend Farm Bill

National Farmers Union (NFU) President Rob Larew today released the following statement in response to the U.S. House of Representatives voting to pass a continuing resolution that would provide funding to the federal government for another year.

“We are relieved to see Congress reach an agreement to reopen the federal government along with another extension of the farm bill. But this is the bare minimum.

“We’ve already lost too much time. The farm safety net is outdated and can’t keep up with today’s economic realities. Input costs remain high, trade relationships are uncertain, access to affordable healthcare is in danger, and the stress on rural communities continues to grow.”



NMPF Annual Meeting Spotlights Farmer Progress

U.S. dairy farmers are thriving in the marketplace even as labor shortages and a volatile policy environment remain challenges, dairy industry leaders stressed at NMPF’s annual meeting.
 
U.S. dairy is well-positioned for growth, NMPF President & CEO Gregg Doud said in remarks at the meeting held jointly by NMPF, the National Dairy Promotion and Research Board and the United Dairy Industry Association, which concluded today.

“I love where we are in this industry right now, today, folks,” he said, noting $11 billion in new dairy-plant investment currently underway nationwide. “Yes, there's going to be uncertainty. My goodness, there's uncertainty. But we're in expansion mode. And I love it.”

Dairy producers in the past year have grappled with workforce instability and a shifting trade environment even as consumer demand has remained strong and the benefits of dairy are increasingly recognized in the nutrition and policy communities. But the firm foundation built for dairy over the past several years bodes well for the industry’s future, said outgoing NMPF Chairman Randy Mooney, who used his remarks to reflect on 17 years leading NMPF’s Board of Directors.

“We've built a stronger foundation for dairy farmers across the country by ensuring that each and every day, farmers, no matter the size of their operation are where they call home, have the tools, the support, and the representation they need to succeed on their operation for generations to come,” he said. “We've moved the industry forward on major policy fronts, and together, we've made collective voice stronger in Washington.” 

NMPF’s Board of Directors selected Brian Rexing, an Indiana dairy farmer and a member of the Dairy Farmers of America cooperative, as NMPF’s next chairman on Monday. Also highlighting the meeting was USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins, who addressed the meeting Tuesday. 

Featured panelists at the meeting’s general session included Doud, who appeared with fellow dairy CEOs Barb O’Brien of Dairy Management Inc. and Krysta Harden of the U.S. Dairy Export Council. A session on revenue opportunities for dairy farmers featuring Katie Cook, Vice President, Farm Animal Sustainability, Elanco Animal Health; Mark Purdy, Director of Product and Portfolio Management, Meristem; and Joel Ysselstein, General Manager, Meadowvale Dairy, also highlighted the event.

The meeting, which ran Nov. 9-12, included discussions of dairy workforce challenges, how the MAHA movement is shaping consumer taste and how AI is upending agriculture. 

The annual meeting is held in conjunction with NMPF’s Young Cooperators annual meeting for younger dairy leaders, as well as NMPF’s annual cheese and dairy products competition. In the contest, the top prize was taken by Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery for its Habanero Ghost Jack, while Lanco Pennland took the overall Reserve Chairman’s award with its Sweet Cheddar. 



CattleCon 2026 Prepares Next Generation of Producers

College students and recent graduates are encouraged to attend CattleCon 2026 in Nashville, Tennessee, Feb. 3-5, to help them prepare for careers in the cattle industry. Future agricultural leaders will have the opportunity to engage with potential employers during the new “Career Crawl” at the NCBA Trade Show on Thursday, Feb. 5. 

“The largest cattle industry event of the year is a great place for the next generation to network with some of our industry’s most impactful companies,” said National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President Buck Wehrbein. “We hope this new career event opens doors for future leaders.”

Attendees can visit participating “Career Crawl” companies at the NCBA Trade Show on Thursday to explore internships, job openings and career opportunities while engaging in meaningful conversations with agriculture professionals. In addition, the first 250 FFA members and 250 4-H members to register will receive complimentary One-Day Thursday Registration, courtesy of Culver’s and Nationwide.

Collegiates are also invited to join American National CattleWomen for an engaging and educational session dedicated to shaping the future of the cattle and beef industries. During the Emerging Leaders event on Thursday morning, attendees can connect with industry leaders, gain valuable insights and explore exciting career and networking opportunities.

Education is a cornerstone of CattleCon and, in 2026, all registration options include Cattlemen’s College sessions and demonstrations. In addition, while roaming the NCBA Trade Show attendees can stop in the Learning Lounge to enjoy informal, face-to-face talks and listen to Cattle Chats which will feature beef industry educational sessions. 

National Block and Bridle will be hosting their annual convention in conjunction with CattleCon 2026. Block and Bridle members will be able to attend select CattleCon activities.

To receive free One-Day Thursday Registration, FFA members must use the code FFACULVERS, and 4-H members, 4HNW. In addition, children 12 and under receive free One-Day admission with a paid guardian. A variety of other registration options are also available, and all include Cattlemen’s College education sessions and demonstrations. For more information and to register and reserve housing, visit convention.ncba.org.

Wednesday November 12 Ag News - NE Opinions of Trade - Tips for Winter Grazing - Engler Christmas Catalog - Cook Named ISU President - and more!

Rural Nebraskans & Trade Policy  
NeFB Newsletter

“It’s hard not to hear about trade this year,” observed Jill O’Donell, director of the Clayton Yeutter Institute of International Trade and Finance at the University of Nebraska during a recent webinar on rural Nebraskans perceptions on trade policy. The return of President Trump to the White House and his hyper-focus on trade has amped most Americans’ awareness of the issue including rural Nebraskans. With this increased awareness, the Nebraska Rural Poll conducted annually by Nebraska Extension and Rural Prosperity Nebraska sought to gather rural Nebraskans’ perceptions on trade policy. A recent report details the findings from both this and last year’s surveys.

Overall, rural Nebraskans think protecting American jobs, lowering prices for consumers, and creating new export opportunities for agricultural producers and other businesses are very important considerations in trade policy (Figure 2). Fifty-seven percent think protecting American jobs is very important, slightly less than last year (60%). More respondents this year compared to last year say lowering prices for consumers is very important (56% vs. 51%). Just more than half (54%) say creating new export opportunities for agricultural producers and other businesses is very important. But interestingly, only 28% rate using trade policies to pressure countries that challenge U.S. economic and political priorities as very important.

Perceptions on trade policy differ based on respondent’s age, occupation, and region. Persons with construction or maintenance occupations view protecting jobs as very important (80%), while 42% of persons in management or professional occupations think the same. Younger people (aged 19-to-29) are more likely to think lower prices for consumers are very important (77%) compared to persons 65 and older (49%). Persons in Northeast Nebraska are more likely than those in other regions to say that lower consumer prices are important. Respondents in the Panhandle are more likely to say creating new export opportunities for agricultural producers and business are very important. All respondents who listed agriculture as an occupation say expanding trade is either important or very important. However, those in agriculture are also more likely to support the use of trade to pressure countries that challenge U.S. economic policies.

 Trade policy will continue to be front and center for President Trump. Trade is also an important part of Nebraska’s economy. The findings of Nebraska Rural Poll shed light rural Nebraskans’ views on trade policy and can contribute to the ongoing discussion surrounding the issue. The report can be found at: https://ruralpoll.unl.edu/current-reports/. 



WINTER GRAZING 
– Jerry Volesky, NE Extension Pasture & Range Specialist

Grazing stockpiled winter range or pastures has several benefits.  It is much less costly compared to feeding hay.   On native range, there is little risk of damage to the grasses because they are dormant and winter stocking rates can be somewhat higher compared to the summer.  Often times, you will notice that native pastures only grazed during the winter are the most vigorous and productive.

It is important though, that you closely monitor body condition of the cows during the winter grazing period.  Crude protein is generally the most limiting nutrient during winter grazing.  The crude protein content of dormant warm-season grasses will be around 5 to 7% and will slowly decline through the winter months from weathering and as the cattle selectively grazing the higher quality forage in a pasture.

Stockpiled cool-season grass pastures are those that have been only lightly or not grazed during the growing season.  These pastures may have slightly higher crude protein levels, but that quality will also decline as the winter progresses.  Feeding the right amount of protein supplement while winter grazing will allow the cows to effectively utilize that winter forage and maintain the desired body condition. 

A possible grazing management strategy that can be used is to do simple rotational grazing where cattle are periodically moved to a new winter pasture.  This will allow for a more consistent diet quality when winter grazing. 

Whatever your strategy, though, consider carefully what kind of nutrition animals are getting from the pasture so you neither underfeed nor overfeed expensive supplements.  And be sure to provide salt, calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin A free choice at all times.

Winter grazing is a great opportunity to reduce winter feed costs.  With proper management, it can help you meet many of your feeding goals. 



AgConverge Conference to highlight ag innovation, entrepreneurship

Innovators, entrepreneurs, producers, researchers, corporations and investors will gather in Gothenburg on Nov. 24 for the inaugural AgConverge Conference. The producer-focused event will showcase how agriculture, technology and entrepreneurship intersect to shape the future of food, energy and water. 

Hosted by Spur Ventures in the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Department of Biological Systems Engineering and the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, in partnership with Bayer Crop Science and collaborators across the state, AgConverge will bring together industry leaders, startup founders, faculty and students for a day of conversation, networking and discovery, with the goal of supporting Nebraska producers.

The event will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Bayer Crop Science Water Utilization Center, 76268 NE-47, Gothenburg. Attendance is free for producers and students, though all attendees are asked to register in advance. Learn more and register here https://www.thespur.org/agconverge.

A highlight of the day will be the formal launch of Spur Ventures, an initiative designed to support entrepreneurship and industry partnerships.

“Spur AgConverge is the right place to introduce Spur Ventures to Nebraska and beyond,” said Ankit Chandra, director and lecturer of entrepreneurship in the Department of Biological Systems Engineering and founder of Spur Ventures. “We’re moving past conversation to implementation, and this event reflects the momentum we’re building.” 

One of the event’s signature features is the Farm Tech Adoption Challenge, a first-of-its-kind, farmer-led competition that flips the traditional startup pitch format. Instead of startups competing for cash prizes, farmers take the lead. Startups present their solutions, and producers evaluate whether those technologies address their real-world challenges, fit their operations and are practical for adoption.

“Spur AgConverge is about building connections,” said Mark Stone, department head of Biological Systems Engineering. “Nebraska is already a global leader in agriculture, but through events like this, we’re building bridges between entrepreneurs, industry, the University of Nebraska and Nebraska producers to grow our state’s largest industry.”

The conference will feature an industry-academia panel discussion and startup and technology showcases highlighting Nebraska’s role as a testbed for agricultural innovation. Entrepreneurs and representatives from startups will have the opportunity to hear directly from producers about how they can better tailor their products or develop new tools suited to the unique needs of Nebraska producers.



ENGLER PROGRAM LAUNCHES 2025 CHRISTMAS CATALOG

Just in time for the holiday season, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln's Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program has launched its 2025 Engler Christmas Catalog — a curated shopping guide featuring more than 50 businesses built by Engler students, alumni and founders.

The catalog includes décor; apparel; baked goods; jewelry; candles; skincare products; premium beef and pork; and photography, event and marketing services. The catalog makes it easy to find holiday gift ideas and allows Nebraskans to support Engler entrepreneurs pursuing success.

“Behind every product in this catalog is a dreamer who decided to try,” said Hailey DeMers, chief creative officer of the Engler program. “And when we choose to support those dreamers, we don’t just buy a gift; we become part of the story they’re building.”

The catalog is available as an interactive digital flipbook and will be promoted throughout the holiday season across Engler platforms and partner networks. Here's the link to the digital flipbook... https://englerjourney.com/flipbook/2025-engler-christmas-catalog/.  Print copies are also available upon request by emailing DeMers at hailey.demers@unl.edu.



David Cook named president of Iowa State University

The Iowa Board of Regents Tuesday named David Cook the 17th president of Iowa State University.

Cook, president of North Dakota State University, succeeds Wendy Wintersteen who will retire in her ninth year as Iowa State’s president. Cook, who is an alumnus of Iowa State, will take office on March 1, 2026.

Since 2022, Cook, 55, has led North Dakota State University, a land-grant university with 12,000 undergraduate and graduate students, and a $971.5 million biennial budget. The institution has five academic colleges, seven agricultural research extension centers and 53 extension offices.

As NDSU’s chief executive officer, Cook has prioritized student success, enriched research and land-grant missions while fostering collaboration to best serve the state of North Dakota. His accomplishments include the launch of a data-driven strategic plan that reversed 10 years of declining enrollment and revenues and invested in student advising and mentoring programs that increased retention of first-year students by 3% and graduation rates by 12%.

During Cook’s time as president, North Dakota State’s research funding and expenditures increased to historic levels. Under his leadership, an NDSU coalition secured a National Science Foundation regional innovation engines grant in agricultural technology, with a potential for $160 million in federal investment. Additionally, Cook helped launch fundraising efforts for initiatives to build leaders in artificial intelligence and drive solutions for modern agriculture. He is a tenured professor in NDSU’s College of Health and Human Sciences.

Prior to his time at North Dakota State, Cook served as vice chancellor for public affairs and economic development at the University of Kansas. In this role, he coordinated efforts to align university priorities with federal opportunities, established the first university-wide economic development office and strategic plan and supported the KU Innovation Park. Cook also held several leadership roles at the University of Kansas Medical Center.

As a faculty researcher, Cook was a principal or co-principal investigator on grants totaling nearly $11 million in external funding. He has published nearly 70 articles, book chapters and abstracts.

In his career he has taught more than 25 courses in subjects including: health policy and management; diffusion, adoption and implementation of innovation; business and organizational communication; and strategic marketing.

Cook earned a bachelor's degree in political science and speech communication from Iowa State University. He earned his master’s degree and his Ph.D., both in organizational communication, from the University of Kansas.

Cook’s appointment concludes a four-month national search for Iowa State’s next leader. His annual salary will be $700,000. He also will receive a five-year deferred compensation plan commencing on March 1, 2026 with annual contributions of $100,000. Cook’s contract is for five years.

A 12-member presidential search committee was charged by the Iowa Board of Regents with identifying finalists for the board’s consideration. The committee was co-chaired by Meghan Gillette, ISU Faculty Senate president, and JC Risewick, Board of Regents member. Washington, D.C.-based AGB Search assisted with the selection.



Secretary Naig Congratulates Next President of Iowa State University David Cook
 
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig issued the following statement after the Iowa Board of Regents announced it had selected David Cook to serve as the 17th President of Iowa State University. 

“Congratulations to David Cook on being named the next president of Iowa State University. ISU is one of the premier land-grant institutions in the nation, and it’s located in one of the most agriculturally productive places in the world. Strong leadership at Iowa State is critical to the success of our students, farmers and rural communities. I look forward to working with President Cook as he takes on this important role.”



Farm Bureau Applauds Progress to End Shutdown

American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall today applauded the Senate vote to end the government shutdown and urged the House to act quickly.

"Farm Bureau commends the Senate for voting to end the government shutdown, ensuring that farmers and ranchers can continue to rely on critical USDA services and disaster relief to keep their farms running and also ensure Americans maintain access to food assistance programs.

“We also appreciate the Senate’s action to extend the U.S. Grain Standards Act and key farm bill programs, as well as authorizing USDA’s 2026 budget. These actions, along with the improvements to farm programs in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, will provide much-needed certainty for farmers as we work with Congress to pass a modernized five-year farm bill.

“Farm Bureau urges members of the House to act swiftly and pass this legislation so it can reach President Trump’s desk without delay."



ASA and NOPA Urge Action on Biofuel Policies Supporting Farmers

The American Soybean Association and the National Oilseed Processors Association (NOPA) sent a joint letter today to President Donald J. Trump urging swift finalization of key federal biofuel policies needed to strengthen domestic demand for U.S. soy and support farmers facing continued market pressure.

The organizations called for completion of several priority actions, including finalizing EPA’s proposed 2026 to 2027 Renewable Fuel Standard volumes, limiting RIN credit generation from foreign feedstocks and imported biofuels, discouraging imports of used cooking oil and beef tallow that displace domestic soybean oil, ensuring full reallocation of waived RVO volumes tied to small refinery exemptions, and issuing timely Treasury guidance for the revised 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit to reflect congressional changes that prioritize domestic agricultural feedstocks.

ASA has applauded the Trump Administration for its advocacy to secure American energy dominance and U.S. soybean farmers are eager to support domestically produced biofuels made with U.S. soy. Finalizing the 2026 and 2027 Renewable Fuel Standard volume obligations and updating 45Z tax guidance to reflect support for domestically-sourced feedstocks is urgently needed to expand domestic market opportunities for U.S. soybean farmers.

ASA CEO Stephen Censky said the administration’s decisions in the coming weeks will directly influence farmer profitability and future processing investments.

“Farmers need clear and consistent federal policy to expand domestic biofuel production and strengthen the market for American grown soy,” Censky said. “The administration has taken important steps to support U.S. biofuels, and it is essential that these policies are finalized before the end of the year.”

Roughly half of all U.S.-processed soybean oil is used in biomass-based diesel, making biofuels one of the most significant domestic markets for soybeans.



Rollins Touts Trump Administration Milk Action Plan at NMPF Annual Meeting 

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins touted the Trump administration’s milk action plan to support American dairy farmers Tuesday at NMPF’s annual meeting.   

“I want to be very clear. We will never stop fighting for those of you in the dairy industry and across rural America we have reached that golden age for our producers,” said Rollins, a Texas native who keynoted the Joint Annual Meeting hosted by NMPF, the United Dairy Board and the United Dairy Industry Association. “Dairy farmers have delivered for America for 250 years, and now it’s time for us to deliver for you.” 

Rollins spoke to roughly 750 farmers, cooperative leaders and industry professionals gathered to discuss industry topics ranging from an economic outlook to dairy labor challenges. NMPF, the largest U.S. dairy farmer group, is holding a series of discussions on policy issues throughout the meeting, ranging from the need to pass the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act to creating lasting labor solutions for U.S. dairy farmers.  

In her remarks, Rollins outlined USDA’s dairy priorities, outlining the administration’s four-point approach to support the industry, including:  
    Incentivizing dairy consumption through changes to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, expected in December or early January; 
    Working to drive down input costs; 
    Facilitating investments in American milk processing; and  
    Expanding markets to help milk producers prosper. 

Rollins also noted the importance of farm-labor issues, pledging to seek federal changes to rules and regulations in coordination with the departments of Labor and Homeland Security while noting that broader changes will require congressional action. “We are acutely aware of the unique labor needs of the dairy industry,” she said.

Rollins became the 33rd U.S. Secretary of Agriculture earlier this year after serving as the Founder, President, and Chief Executive Officer of the America First Policy Institute. During President Trump’s first administration, she was the Director of the Domestic Policy Council and Assistant to the President for Strategic Initiatives in the White House. She also previously served as Director of the Office of American Innovation. In these roles, she developed and managed the domestic policy agenda of the Trump administration.   

Rollins’s remarks kicked off a busy day at the conference, with remarks from immediate past NMPF Chairman Randy Mooney, newly elected NMPF Chairman Brian Rexing, and NMPF President & CEO Gregg Doud as well as a luncheon featuring awards from the National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management (FARM) Program and NMPF communications.  

Tuesday November 11 Ag News - Fischer on Gov't Funding Package - NeFB Analysis: Inputs Squeeze Farmers - CAP Ag Land Mgt Quarterly - Forage Webinar Nov 18th - Milk Prod Report - and more!

Fischer Votes For Funding Package to Reopen Government

Monday, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) voted for a funding package that would reopen the federal government and allocate $72 million for community projects she secured for Nebraska. The legislative package – which passed the Senate by a vote of 60-40 – includes the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Appropriations Act; Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and Related Agencies Appropriations Act; and the Legislative Branch and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. It also continues current funding levels for the remaining federal agencies through January 30, 2026.

“After voting 16 times to reopen the federal government, I am encouraged that Senate Democrats have finally come to the table. This package delivers results I secured for Nebraska – including crucial funding that will benefit the Omaha VA and over $54 million for mission critical programs at Offutt Air Force Base. It also directs an additional $16 million for UNL’s ARS center, which follows a total investment of over $56 million I’ve helped secure over the last five fiscal years. While this legislation is an important step forward, we still need the House to take up and pass this package swiftly so we can reopen the government and get back to work for the American people,” Fischer said.

Provisions advanced by Fischer in the MilCon-VA Appropriations Act to support our veterans:
    Secures nearly $1.4 billion for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)’s major construction account that will provide future funding for the Omaha VA hospital project;
    Directs the VA to purchase essential medical devices, such as needles, syringes, and blood collection products from U.S. manufacturers or allied trading partners. Also, directs the VA to submit a report on ways to reduce dependency on Chinese medical devices while safeguarding against shortages; and
    Directs the VA to report on the success of the External Provider Scheduling (EPS) program while identifying barriers to increased implementation and creating recommendations on how to increase community provider participation.

Funding advanced by Fischer in the MilCon-VA Appropriations Act to support next generation of ‘doomsday’ planes, critical investments at Offutt Air Force Base:
    $42.3 million to plan and design the new Survivable Airborne Operations Center (SAOC) at Offutt;
    $6 million to plan and design a Consolidated Training Complex/Professional Development Center at Offutt; and
    $6 million to plan and design a new dormitory at Offutt.

Funding advanced by Fischer in the Agriculture, Rural Development, FDA, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act:
    $16 million for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) facility at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s (UNL) Innovation Campus; and
    $1.5 million for the National Drought Mitigation Center at UNL.

Provisions advanced by Fischer in the Agriculture, Rural Development, FDA, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act:
    Prioritizing ARS research for the beef industry at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) in Clay Center, Nebraska; and
    Requiring the USDA to streamline contracting and procurement services for livestock research facilities to help USMARC with cost overruns on facility improvements.



Rising Costs Squeeze Nebraska Agriculture: New Report Details Mounting Financial Pressure on Farm and Ranch Families

Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers are facing mounting financial pressures as interest rates, land values, input prices, and equipment costs continue to climb, according to a new analysis released by Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB). The State of Nebraska’s Farm Expenses, prepared by NEFB Economist and Policy Analyst Abygail Streff, outlines how these escalating costs are straining farm budgets and threatening the economic stability of rural communities across the state.

“Farm and ranch families are being squeezed from every direction,” said Mark McHargue, Nebraska Farm Bureau President. “From higher interest rates to dramatic spikes in input and land costs, these aren’t abstract figures, they represent real pressures on family farm operations. Because agriculture drives Nebraska’s economy, when farm families face tighter margins, it impacts every rural community, business, and local government that depends on a healthy agricultural sector.”

Key Findings from the Report:
    Interest Rates at Decade Highs - Agricultural loan interest rates averaged 7.29% in 2025, dramatically higher than in recent years. In 2025 and 2026 corn’s interest is forecast to cost around $8.47 and $7.44 per acre. Soybean’s interest is forecast to be around $4.57 and $3.99 in 2025 and 2026, respectively.
    Land Values and Rental Rates Surge - Real agricultural land values increased by more than 14% between 2024 and 2025, driving up property taxes, insurance, and cash rents. Cedar County now has the highest irrigated cropland rental rate in the state at $355 per acre, more than double the lowest reported rate.
    Equipment and Machinery Costs Climb Sharply - The cost of farm machinery parts has risen over 69% since 2020, with the price of a part that cost $600 in 1982 now approaching $1,930. These increases place added strain on producers’ ability to maintain and operate essential equipment.
    Fertilizer Prices Continue Upward Trend - Fertilizer costs per acre for corn are forecast at $161.59 in 2025, a 44.8% increase since 2020, while soybean fertilizer costs have climbed over 60% during the same period.
    Tightening Margins - While expenses are rising, commodity prices are projected to remain low in 2025 and 2026, leaving producers unable to cover total costs through market returns. Both corn and soybean production are forecast to face negative margins for a second consecutive year.

“These expense increases are interconnected and compounding,” said Streff. “Higher land values lead to higher taxes and rents, increased interest rates make financing those costs more expensive, and spikes in input prices erode producers’ ability to remain profitable. The financial environment for Nebraska producers is tightening, and strategic policy responses will be crucial in the years ahead.”

Agriculture is the backbone of Nebraska’s economy, accounting for nearly one-fourth of the state’s GDP. Rising farm expenses have implications well beyond the farm gate, affecting local lenders, equipment suppliers, input dealers, and rural main streets. Loan repayment rates have declined sharply since 2023, while loan demand has remained elevated, signaling increasing financial stress in the countryside.

NEFB continues to push for much needed policy solutions to strengthen Nebraska’s agricultural economy.

“We need policies that help grow markets for Nebraska commodities, including expanded trade, year-round E15 availability, and support for livestock expansion. These cost pressures are real and persistent. A strong farm and ranch economy benefits all Nebraskans,” said McHargue.

The full State of Nebraska’s Farm Expenses report is available here https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6807c5b6c98c124d4a8a43fd/690cd1e11ef2593bd7a7ff90_FarmExpensesReport_2025.pdf. 



Ag Land Management Webinar Planned on Cash Rents, Farm Programs, Leasing

The latest trends in 2025 Nebraska county-level cash rental rates, ARC and PLC coverage options and leasing considerations will be covered during the next Land Management Quarterly webinar, hosted by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Center for Agricultural Profitability, at noon CST on Nov. 17.

Each quarter, the webinars address common management issues for Nebraska landowners, agricultural operators and related stakeholders interested in the latest insight on trends in real estate, managing agricultural land and solutions for addressing challenges in the upcoming growing season. 

The November webinar will cover recent findings from the 2025 USDA-National Agricultural Statistics Service county-level cash rent survey and trends in farm programs influencing operations across the state. The presentation will also include a segment on landlord-tenant communication issues related to closing out 2025 leases and review leasing considerations for 2026. The webinar will conclude with an “Ask the Experts” session, allowing participants to get live answers to their land or leasing questions.

Viewers will have the opportunity to submit land management questions for the presenters to answer during the presentation.

The webinar will be led by Jim Jansen and Anastasia Meyer, both in the Department of Agricultural Economics. Jansen focuses on agricultural finance, land economics and the direction of the annual Nebraska Farm Real Estate Market Survey and Report. Meyer is an agricultural economist focusing on rental negotiations and leasing arrangements.

Registration and past recordings are available https://cap.unl.edu/landmanagement. 



CUTLER TO DISCUSS U.S.-JAPANESE ECONOMIC TIES ON NOV. 19

Wendy Cutler, senior vice president at the Asia Society Policy Institute and former acting deputy U.S. trade representative, will discuss “What’s Next for U.S.-Japan Trade?” from 4 to 5 p.m. Nov. 19 in the Nebraska East Union’s Arbor Suite.

The event is free and open to the public. Doors open at 3:30 p.m., with a reception to follow. The event will also be livestreamed https://yeutter-institute.unl.edu/.

The Clayton Yeutter Institute of International Trade and Finance and the Asia Society Policy Institute are co-sponsoring the event, with the support of the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

“The U.S.-Japan economic relationship remains a cornerstone of our overall bilateral relationship,” Cutler said. “President Trump’s recent visit to Tokyo reaffirmed this, with both nations advancing cooperation on trade, investment, critical minerals and supply-chain resilience.”

Cutler played a key role in U.S. trade negotiations in Asia, including becoming the assistant U.S. trade representative for Japan, South Korea and Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Affairs at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. She also served as the chief U.S. negotiator for the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement. At the Asia Society Policy Institute, Cutler leads initiatives on trade policy and economic strategy in the Indo-Pacific.

“It’s especially timely to discuss these issues in Lincoln, where Japanese investment and Nebraska’s agricultural exports highlight how global economic ties drive local growth,” Cutler said.

Gov. Jim Pillen recently concluded a trade mission in Japan during an event organized by the U.S. Embassy in Japan and the U.S. Grains Council, at a time when Japan announced plans to increase ethanol blends by 20% by 2040. There are more than 120 Nebraska companies actively involved in trade with Japan. Nebraska established its first international office in the country, the Nebraska Center Japan, in 2006, which serves as the primary contact point for Japanese companies seeking business opportunities in the state.

In 2024, Nebraska exports to Japan totaled almost $700 million, with the country being Nebraska’s fourth-largest export market, top destination for pork and eggs and second-leading foreign buyer of beef and corn. Japan is also Nebraska’s largest foreign direct investor, investing more than $4.4 billion since 2010.

To register for the Nov. 19 discussion or find more information, click here https://www.eventbrite.com/e/whats-next-for-us-japan-trade-tickets-1777730362369 or contact Jill O’Donnell at jodonnell2@unl.edu.



Nebraska Wheat Board Announces November Meeting

The Nebraska Wheat Board (NWB) will hold its next meeting Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at the Knight Museum in Alliance, NE. The meeting is set to begin at 8:30 AM MT.

During the meeting, the NWB will receive reports from members on committee activities as well as the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Nebraska Wheat Growers Association.

The board will receive an update from the National Association of Wheat Growers as well as review potential state statute updates and revisions.

The public is welcome to attend any open portion of the meeting. Interested individuals may contact the NWB office for a copy of the detailed agenda or for more information.

The Nebraska Wheat Board administers the excise tax of 0.5% of net value of wheat marketed in Nebraska at the point of first sale. The board invests the funds in programs of international and domestic market development and improvement, policy development, research, promotion, and education.



Forage Webinar Series Continues November 18

The I-29 Moo University and the Northern Plains Forage Association Forage Webinar Series continues Tuesday, November 18 from 7 to 8:30 pm CST with a variety of forage topics including an overview of using drones to manage pasture and rangeland, water systems for livestock pastures and a market outlook.

Presenters include:
Kapil Arora, Iowa State University Extension Agricultural Engineer will share insights and current research on using pasture watering systems for livestock. Dr. Kapil Arora’s expertise includes composting, water quality, and environmental regulations. Kapil received his Master’s and his Ph.D. from Iowa State University.

Tracy Shane, Ph.D., serves as University of Nevada, Reno Extension State Livestock Specialist and will present “Drones on the Range: forage crop and pasture data to inform land management decisions”. During this presentation attendees will learn about how drones can be deployed to capture information about grazing lands or forage crops and turn that information into products useful for farmers, ranchers and land managers. Examples such as weed detection, vegetation monitoring, and forage production estimates will be presented. Operational challenges for moving drone research into everyday management will be discussed.  

Dr. Shane has over twenty-five years of combined experience as a rangeland management specialist and university lecturer in animal and rangeland sciences. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science and a Master of Science degree in Natural Resources and Environmental Science. Her Ph.D. research involved remote sensing of targeted livestock grazing treatments. She has been an FAA-licensed drone pilot for over five years and has trained three additional drone pilots during this time. She combines her years of experience working across Great Basin rangelands with satellite and drone-based remote sensing applications to provide actionable products for farmers and ranchers. She translates advancements in precision agriculture and animal science research into publications and tools useful to land managers. 

Barb Kinnan-Baier, Executive Director of the Nebraska Alfalfa Marketing Association will share her view of the current alfalfa market and insights for the 2026 markets

There is no fee to participate in the webinar; however, registration is required at least one hour prior to the webinar. Register online at: https://go.iastate.edu/NOVEMBER2025FORAGEWEBINAR

 For more information contact: in Iowa, Fred M. Hall, 712-737-4230; in Minnesota, Jim Salfer, 320-203-6093; or in South Dakota, Sara Bauder, 605-995-7378; or in Nebraska Ben Beckman, 402-254-6821.



July-September Milk Production up 3.8 Percent

Milk production in the United States during the July - September quarter totaled 58.2 billion pounds, up 3.8 percent from the July - September quarter last year. The average number of milk cows in the United States during the quarter was 9.54 million head, 82,000 head more than the April - June quarter, and 199,000 head more than the same period last year.

State production 3Q '25
Nebraska .....:       305.0 million lbs. -   down 1.3% 3Q '24     
Iowa ...........:        1,508.0 mil lbs. - up 1.6% 3Q '24    



Agriculture Groups Urge Caution on Making Changes to USMCA
 
In a letter submitted to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, the National Pork Producers Council and more than 125 other agriculture and food organizations extolled the benefits of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement to U.S. producers and urged USTR to be cautious when considering modifications to the trade deal. The United States, Canada, and Mexico are set to conduct a review of the trade agreement next July.
 
In separate comments, NPPC echoed the larger group’s strong support for the USMCA, noting it has been “instrumental in ensuring long-term success” as shown by the nearly $2.6 billion of U.S. pork exported to Mexico and almost $853 million to Canada in 2024. That made those countries the No. 1 and No. 4 export markets, respectively, for the U.S. pork industry.

The agriculture and food organizations pointed out that the USMCA’s provisions have facilitated and streamlined the flow of commerce throughout the three countries. The one on sanitary and phytosanitary measures, for example, increased regulatory transparency and ensured science-based treatment of agricultural commodities and products, while the USMCA chapter on dispute settlements has provided a mechanism for resolving barriers that otherwise would disrupt U.S. agriculture’s export market stability and growth. Additionally, many U.S. agricultural commodities benefited from new or expanded market access in Canada and Mexico under the deal, so any changes “should be carefully considered,” the organizations said.

The agreement also has helped integrate food and agriculture supply chains in North America, improving regional food security, particularly in rural areas, and further strengthening global competitiveness for food, energy, and industrial products that utilize agricultural inputs. 

The agriculture and food groups have “benefited tremendously from the seamless North American integration” achieved under the USMCA. Agrifood trade among the three countries tripled in value, rising to $285 billion between 2005 and 2023, they pointed out. The United States is the largest trading partner for Canada and Mexico.
 
Maintaining a rules-based agreement with binding commitments protects the U.S. food and agriculture industry, the organizations said. Without the economic might the trilateral agreement affords, farmer incomes would be affected by additional and burdensome costs related to transportation and compliance measures, and without the certainty guaranteed by USMCA, U.S. agriculture would face unreliable markets and its global competitiveness would be weakened.



USDA to Publish WASDE and Cattle on Feed for November
Bernt Nelson, Economist, American Farm Bureau Federation

The U.S. Government has now been shut down for 40 days, making it the longest shutdown event on record. Impacts are far reaching and range from halted disaster aid payments all the way to cancelled USDA reports and data products that are used by countless stakeholders all over the world. USDA’s World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) and Cattle on Feed (COF) reports are two monthly reports that have huge impacts on markets and farmer and rancher decisions throughout the country. USDA did not publish either report in October. With harvest for many crops underway, and farmers making decisions about keeping cattle for breeding or sending them to market, this is a critical time for decision makers on the farm to have access to these reports.

USDA’s WASDE is one of the most influential publications in agriculture. This report provides estimates on global crop production, consumption, and trade that markets rely on for price discovery. Similarly, USDA’s COF report provides estimates for the number of cattle on feed, placed into feedlots, and marketed for beef production. These reports provide a real-time snapshot of the national and global balance sheet for crop and livestock supplies and demand. Without these reports, stakeholders are forced to rely on alternative sources of information, adding to market uncertainty.

Reports, such as WASDE and COF, have been missed or delayed in the past. During the 35-day shutdown that lasted from Dec. 2018 to Jan. 2019, the Jan. 2019 WASDE was missed and ultimately released on Feb. 8, 2019, after the government reopened.

On Friday, October 31, USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) announced that it will release several key agricultural reports in November, including the monthly WASDE, Cattle on Feed, Crop Production, and Milk Production reports. USDA will release crop production and WASDE estimates on Nov. 14, while USDA’s monthly Cattle on Feed report is scheduled for release on Nov. 21. Regardless of whether these reports are bullish or bearish, they could add considerable volatility to markets upon their release. 



Rexing Elected New NMPF Chairman 

Brian Rexing, an Indiana dairy farmer and a member of the Dairy Farmers of America cooperative, was chosen as NMPF’s 15th chairman at the organization’s Joint Annual Meeting today. 

“Thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve as your chairman,” said Rexing in his first remarks after being named to the position by NMPF’s Board of Governors.  

“I may be stepping into this role, but it isn’t about me,” he said. “It’s about who we represent, and the future we’re building together.” 

Rexing and his wife, Ranell, operate New Generation Dairy, near Owensville, IN milking 1,200 cows and farming 3,500 acres of corn, beans, wheat, and alfalfa. Brian is a fourth-generation farmer. Brian and Ranell have four children. He is the Vice President of Evansville Young Dairymen and received the Indiana Dairy Producer of the Year award 2010. In 2021, Brian purchased a meat processing plant with a retail store. Brian is a member of DFA’s Executive Committee. 

Rexing succeeds Randy Mooney, who has served as NMPF’s chairman for the past 17 years. Mooney, who also serves as chairman for Dairy Farmers of America, will remain on NMPF’s Executive Committee, which also was elected today.  

“It is one of the great honors of my life to work alongside so many dedicated farmer-leaders who care deeply about the future of dairy,” said Mooney. “I’m proud to pass the baton to Brian Rexing — a leader who carries forward the spirit of dedication, vision, and integrity that defines NMPF and our entire industry.” 

NMPF’s Officers and Executive Committee will consist of:  
    Chairman Brian Rexing – Dairy Farmers of America 
    1st Vice Chairman Cricket Jacquier – Agri-Mark  
    2nd Vice Chairman Simon Vander Woude – California Dairies Inc. 
    Secretary Craig Caballero – United Dairymen of Arizona 
    Treasurer Pete Kappelman – Land O’Lakes 
    Sheryl Meshke – AMPI 
    Rob Vandenheuvel – California Dairies Inc. 
    Melvin Medeiros – Dairy Farmers of America 
    Randy Mooney – Dairy Farmers of America 
    Joel Eigenbrood – Foremost Farms 
    Brian Hemann – Lone Star 
    Jon Cowell – Maola Local Dairies 
    Doug Chapin – Michigan Milk Producers Association 
    Frank Doll – Prairie Farms 
    Jacob Larson – Southeast Milk Inc.  

Today concluded the first full day of the Joint Annual Meeting held by NMPF and dairy checkoff organizations the National Dairy Board and the United Dairy Industry Association. The first day is devoted heavily to NMPF governance and director discussions on dairy policy and the future of the industry. 

Also at the meeting, NMPF’s Board of Directors approved the organization’s policy positions and elected new members. New board members approved by NMPF delegates, a broader group than the board, include: 
    Amy Humphreys – Northwest Dairy Association 
    Kurt Williams – Lanco Pennland  
    Stephen Mancebo – Land O’Lakes 
    Brian Hemann – Lone Star Milk Producers  
    Will Dyt – California Dairies Inc. 

The members awarded Honorary Directors for Life recognition to former NMPF Board members Jim Werkhoven of the Northwest Dairy Association and Joey Fernandes of Land O’Lakes. 

The meeting of roughly 750 farmers and industry professionals continues through Wednesday, featuring breakout sessions on industry topics ranging from an economic outlook to the dairy labor challenges. 

The annual meeting is also held in conjunction with NMPF’s Young Cooperators Leadership and Development program for younger dairy leaders, as well as NMPF’s annual cheese contest, which will announce winners tomorrow.