Thursday January 08 Ag News - NeFB on WOTUS Proposal - Eastern NE Corn/Soy Expo - CHS Q1 Earnings - Call for Nationwide E-15 - New Dietary Guidelines Released - and more!

Nebraska Farm Bureau Submits Comments on EPA’s Latest Waters of the U.S. Proposal

Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB) this week submitted formal comments to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Army Corp of Engineers on its latest proposal addressing the federal definition of Waters of the United States (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act.

For more than a decade and across three presidential administrations, Nebraska farm and ranch families have faced ongoing uncertainty caused by repeated changes to federal WOTUS rules. Nebraska Farm Bureau says EPA’s latest effort to clarify and simplify federal jurisdiction is a step in the right direction.

“For Nebraska farm and ranch families, WOTUS isn’t something debated in a courtroom — it’s something we deal with every day,” said Mark McHargue, NEFB president. “Federal regulation should apply only to real, lasting waters, and that’s the clarity we’re asking for.”

In its submitted comments, NEFB emphasized the need for a commonsense approach that reflects conditions across Nebraska. The organization urged EPA to limit federal jurisdiction to waters that normally contain water, such as streams, rivers, and lakes, and to exclude dry draws, gullies, and channels that only carry water immediately following rain or snowmelt. NEFB cautioned against relying too heavily on maps, modeling, and computer-based tools when making jurisdictional determinations.

“Storms can leave behind banks or water marks that look like a stream on a map, even when local landowners know it’s usually dry,” McHargue said. “Decisions need to be based on real-world observation and local knowledge, not just datasets or desk-based determinations that can mislabel features and create surprise liability for landowners.”

Additionally, NEFB’s comments call for strong protections for normal farming, irrigation, drainage, and conservation activities. The organization stressed the importance of clear exclusions so producers can maintain ditches, tile drainage, and irrigation systems, manage groundwater, and idle land for conservation or drought recovery without triggering federal permits.

“Our farmers and ranchers rely on irrigation and drainage infrastructure to remain productive and resilient,” McHargue said. “Routine maintenance and conservation practices should not require federal permission.”

The comments also urge EPA to preserve long-standing protections for prior converted cropland, ensuring land does not suddenly fall under federal regulation unless it has truly been abandoned for more than five years and reverted to wetland conditions.

“Nebraska Farm Bureau’s comments reflect the real-world concerns of Nebraska farm and ranch families,” McHargue said. “We look forward to continuing to work with EPA to ensure rules are clear, practical, and allow farmers and ranchers to continue feeding, fueling, and clothing our country and the world.”



Nebraska Extension Hosts Eastern Nebraska Corn & Soybean Expo 

Join us on Thursday, January 22nd at the Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center for the Eastern Nebraska Corn & Soybean Expo.

This event is sponsored by Nebraska Extension, Nebraska Soybean Board, and the Nebraska Corn Board.

This year’s expo will kick off at 8:30 a.m. with soy donuts from the Saunders County Soybean Growers and time to visit vendors, speakers start at 9:00 am and will finish up at 3:00 p.m.

Complimentary lunch will be provided as well as door prizes at the end of the day.

Plan on joining us to learn from a variety of speakers and visit a variety of vendors about important topics for corn and soybean production in 2026!

Topics and Speakers Include:
Using Farm Financial Averages to Plan Ahead 
Tina Barrett, Executive Director, Nebraska Farm Business, Inc.
This presentation will highlight Nebraska Farm Business, Inc.’s 2024 farm financial averages and discuss early projections for 2025. Attendees will gain practical insights on how to use these benchmarks to make informed management and planning decisions heading into 2026.
 
Soybean Management Misconceptions 
Mark Licht, Associate Professor, Extension Cropping Systems Specialist, Iowa State University
This session will be a refresher of soybean growth and development. Along the way, soybean management misconceptions will be dispelled.

Managing Nitrogen in 2026 – Farmer Panel

Grain Marketing and Insurance – Tredas

What Did We Learn About Drone Application in 2025 – On-Farm Research Update

Updates will also be provided by the Nebraska Corn Board, Nebraska Soybean Board, Nebraska Corn Growers Association and Nebraska Soybean Association.

Vendor spots are still available, contact Aaron Nygren for more information or go to https://enreec.unl.edu/easternnebraskacornsoybeanexpo/

For more information, call Aaron Nygren at 402-624-8030, e-mail anygren2@unl.edu , or Mailson Freire de Oliveira at 402-727-2775, email mfreiredeoliveira2@unl.edu. 



2026 I-29 Moo University Webinar: Dairy Markets and Policy Update 

The 2026 I-29 Moo University Dairy Webinar Series kicks off on Monday, January 12 from 12 noon to 1 p.m. CST, focusing on milk markets with Dr. Leonard Polzin.

This webinar provides an update on U.S. dairy markets and recent Federal Milk Marketing Order reforms, with a focus on how current market and policy dynamics are affecting milk prices and producer revenues. The discussion examines the ongoing downturn in dairy prices by analyzing key supply, demand, and trade factors, explaining why prices have declined, why the downturn has emerged at this point in the cycle, and how competing market signals are creating mixed price indications.

Leonard Polzin grew up on a century-old Wisconsin dairy farm and received bachelor’s Degrees in Dairy Science and Agricultural Business from UW River Falls. He completed his graduate work in Agriculture and Resource Economics from Michigan State University. He brings extensive experience as an educator and analyst to the position, having developed and provided programing on topics including market analysis, outlook and market expectations, risk management, and policy analysis.

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/25NNVN

For more information, contact: in Iowa, Fred M. Hall, 712-737-4230; in Minnesota, Jim Salfer, 320-203-6093; in Nebraska, Kortney Harpestad, 402-472-3571; or in South Dakota, Maristela Rovai, 605-688-5488.



Dairy Team 2026 Webinar Series Continues With Focus On Cyber Security

The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Dairy Team monthly webinar series continues on Wednesday, January 14 from 12 noon to 1 p.m. CST. This program will be presented by Doug Jacobson the Director of the Iowa State University Center for Cybersecurity Innovation and Outreach.

Jacobson will discuss cyber threats on the dairy and around the farm.

Doug Jacobson is Director of the Iowa State University Center for Cybersecurity Innovation and Outreach and Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering. He is the lead PI in the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity sponsored ReCIPE coalition which is focused on securing cyber-physical systems. Doug also created the Iowa Cyber Hub which is dedicated to increasing the cyber workforce in Iowa. Doug has given over 300 presentations in the area of computer security. He also created a computer security outreach program targeted at the general public, post-secondary students, and faculty.

Due to requests from participants who want to document education in our webinars, beginning in January 2026 requests for a “Certificate of Attendance” will be available when requested with the registration. There is the requirement to be logged on to each webinar for at least 85 percent of the total minutes of the program. With the requirements met, you will receive an email to collect the charge. Each certificate will be $5 to cover the cost of handling and shipping.

Producers, dairy consultants and industry reps are encouraged to attend the free webinar live from 12 noon to 1:00 p.m. on January 14 by pre registering at least one hour before the webinar at: https://go.iastate.edu/DAIRYCYBERSECURITY

 For more information contact the ISU Extension and Outreach Dairy Field Specialist in your area: in Northwest Iowa, Fred M. Hall, 712-737-4230 or fredhall@iastate.edu; in Northeast Iowa, Jennifer Bentley, 563-382-2949 or jbentley@iastate.edu; in East Central Iowa, Larry Tranel, 563-583-6496 or tranel@iastate.edu. 



CHS reports first quarter fiscal 2026 earnings

CHS Inc., a global agribusiness and the nation’s leading cooperative, today released results for its first quarter of fiscal year 2026. The company reported net income of $260.5 million and revenues of $8.9 billion for the quarter that ended November 30, 2025, compared to net income of $244.8 million and revenues of $9.3 billion in the first quarter of fiscal year 2025. Starting in fiscal year 2026, the company's financial segments have changed to align with its new end-to-end product-line operating model.

Key highlights for first quarter fiscal year 2026 financial results:
    Strong performance in refined fuels driven by strengthened refining margins and record premium diesel sales volumes.
    Continued headwinds in grains due to global trade factors, challenged U.S. soybean markets and lower margins for certain commodities.
    Solid performance in agronomy driven largely by our CF Nitrogen joint venture, but partially offset by a weaker U.S. farm economy.

“CHS was well positioned to serve our owners during a strong harvest, contributing to higher performance in our energy segment. However, the ag market overall continues to be challenged both by global market dynamics and a tighter spending environment for farmers,” said Jay Debertin, president and CEO of CHS. “By prioritizing efficiency, diversified supply chains and operational excellence, we continue to be focused on bringing value to our owners. At the same time, our new operating model, which is now reflected in our financial reporting, allows us more visibility into our end-to-end supply chain, positioning CHS for long-term growth.”

Energy
This segment includes our refined fuels, propane and lubricants product lines. Energy delivered pretax earnings of $152.3 million for the first quarter of fiscal year 2026, which represent a $136.6 million increase versus the prior year period. This reflects:
    Higher refining margins due to favorable crack spreads.
    Strong diesel demand driven by heavy harvest activity, resulting in record sales volumes of Cenex® premium diesel.

Grains
The grains segment primarily includes our corn, oilseeds, wheat and specialty grains product lines. Pretax earnings of $36.2 million represent a $130.8 million decrease versus the prior year period and reflects:
    Weaker soy crush and spring wheat margins, decreased soybean export volumes and timing impacts of mark-to-market adjustments.
    Increased corn export volumes and winter and white wheat volumes, as well as higher export margins in some markets and strong processing margins for ethanol and canola.

Agronomy
This segment includes crop nutrients, crop protection and CF Nitrogen. Pretax earnings of $36.8 million represent an $8.7 million increase versus the prior year period, and reflect:
    Strong performance by our CF Nitrogen equity method investment due to favorable market conditions for urea and UAN.
    Decreased volumes in crop nutrients due to tighter purchasing decisions by U.S. farmers and lower margins in both crop nutrients and crop protection influenced by strong competition and market dynamics.

Corporate and services
This segment includes our CHS Capital, CHS Hedging and transportation businesses, as well as our Ardent Mills and Ventura Foods joint ventures. Pretax earnings of $46.8 million represent a $1.2 million decrease versus the prior year period.

CHS Inc. (www.chsinc.com) creates connections to empower agriculture. As a leading global agribusiness and the largest farmer-owned cooperative in the United States, CHS serves customers in 65 countries. We provide critical crop inputs, market access and risk management services that help farmers feed the world. Our diversified agronomy, grains, foods and energy businesses recorded revenues of $35.5 billion in fiscal year 2025. CHS is committed to reducing our impact on the planet, finding and developing new solutions in agriculture and energy, and investing in ways to build a better future for our owners, customers, employees and communities. 



Weekly Ethanol Production for 1/2/2026

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending January 2, ethanol production declined 2.0% to 1.10 million b/d, equivalent to 46.12 million gallons daily. Output was 0.4% lower than the same week last year but 6.0% above the three-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate edged down 0.2% to 1.11 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 17.08 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks rose 3.1% to 23.7 million barrels. Still, stocks were 2.1% less than the same week last year and 1.9% below the three-year average. Inventories built primarily in the Midwest (PADD 2); the West Coast (PADD 5) was the only region where stocks decreased.

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, fell 4.6% to 8.17 million b/d (125.59 bg annualized). Demand was 3.7% less than a year ago but 0.6% above the three-year average.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol sank 13.2% to 771,000 b/d, equivalent to 11.85 bg annualized and the lowest level since the first week of 2023. Net inputs were 1.0% less than the year-ago level and 1.6% below the three-year average.

Ethanol exports decreased 23.6% to an estimated 113,000 b/d (4.7 million gallons/day). It has been more than a year since EIA indicated ethanol was imported.



Prices for 5 Fertilizers Lower at End of 2025

Average retail prices for five of the eight major fertilizers were lower than the previous month during the last week of 2025, while prices for the remaining three fertilizers were slightly higher, according to sellers surveyed by DTN.

Prices for two fertilizers were considerably lower, which DTN designates as anything 5% or more. The average retail price of DAP was down 8% at $847 per ton. The average price of MAP was down 5% from last month, at $876 per ton. Prices for three other nutrients were down slightly from a month ago. Potash had an average price of $484/ton, urea $566/ton and UAN28 $411/ton.

Prices for the remaining three fertilizers were up slightly from last month. 10-34-0 had an average price of $674/ton, anhydrous $867/ton and UAN32 $466/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was $0.62/lb.N, anhydrous $0.53/lb.N, UAN28 $0.73/lb.N and UAN32 $0.73/lb.N.

Prices for all eight fertilizers are now higher compared to one year earlier: MAP by 8%, potash 9%, 10-34-0 10%, DAP 15%, Urea 16%, anhydrous 18%, UAN28 27% and UAN32 by 28%.



Ag, Biofuel Groups Continue Call for Year-Round Sales of Lower-Cost E15

In a letter sent today to congressional leadership, a coalition of more than 70 biofuel and agricultural organizations called for the immediate passage of legislation to allow year-round nationwide sales of the American-made E15 fuel blend, containing 15 percent ethanol. Year-round E15 would benefit drivers with savings of 10 to 30 cents per gallon and improve markets for America’s farmers.

“The U.S. Department of Agriculture projects a record 16.8-billion-bushel corn harvest in 2025—up roughly 13 percent from 2024,” the groups wrote. “While this demonstrates the strength and productivity of America’s farmers, it also intensifies pressure on corn prices and farm incomes. Expanding E15 access is one of the most immediate and practical ways to address this imbalance. When fully scaled, year-round, nationwide E15 is poised to create new domestic demand for billions of bushels of corn and sorghum, help stabilize markets, support farmers, and deliver consumer savings at the pump.”

The letter was led by Growth Energy, the American Farm Bureau Federation, the National Corn Growers Association, and the Renewable Fuels Association.

In recent years, the organizations noted, E15 availability during the summer driving season has depended on temporary emergency waivers. While these annual actions provide short-term relief, they are not a sustainable or reliable solution. Year-to-year uncertainty discourages investment in fuel infrastructure, confuses consumers, and undermines confidence among retailers and refiners.

“With a record corn crop filling bins across America, farmers cannot afford another season of uncertainty and negative margins. Markets need consistency and predictability, which requires permanent legislative action by Congress. We respectfully urge you to act this year to pass year-round E15 legislation,” the groups wrote.



Ag and Renewable Fuel Groups Urge Congress: Pass Year-Round E15 Now

Iowa Renewable Fuels Association, alongside over 70 national and state renewable fuels, corn growers, and agricultural associations, are calling on Congress to act swiftly and approve legislation enabling nationwide, year-round E15 sales. 

In a letter spearheaded by the Renewable Fuels Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, Growth Energy, and the National Corn Growers Association, the coalition emphasized that “when fully scaled, year-round, nationwide E15 is poised to create new domestic demand for billions of bushels of corn and sorghum, help stabilize markets, support farmers, and deliver consumer savings at the pump.” 

The letter also highlighted findings from a recent study showing the economic potential of unleashing E15: 
    Add up to $25.8 billion to U.S. GDP 
    Generate up to $10.3 billion in household income 
    Support more than 128,000 new full-time jobs across the economy 

“With the current agriculture economy in the worst shape in several decades, unlocking new markets like year-round E15 is essential for the future of farmers,” said Executive Director Monte Shaw.  “IRFA is proud to stand behind this united effort. Congress must act, and act now!” 



ACE Joins Ag, Biofuel Groups in Urging Swift Congressional Action to Secure Year-Round E15

The American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) Wednesday joined a broad coalition of organizations representing farmers, ethanol producers, and renewable fuel stakeholders in urging congressional leaders to swiftly pass legislation securing permanent, year-round access to E15 nationwide.

In a letter sent to bipartisan leadership in the U.S. House and Senate, the coalition emphasized that permanent year-round E15 is a commonsense solution to support farmers, strengthen rural economies, and provide consumers with a lower-cost fuel option at the pump.

“With record corn and sorghum crops filling bins across America, farmers cannot afford another season of uncertainty and negative margins. Markets need consistency and predictability, which requires permanent legislative action by Congress,” the coalition wrote.

In recent years, E15 availability during the summer months has relied on temporary emergency waivers, creating uncertainty for retailers and consumers alike.

“Without a permanent legislative solution, uncertainty will continue to hold back market growth and limit access to E15 for consumers,” said Brian Jennings, CEO of the American Coalition for Ethanol. “Congress must act now to remove outdated regulatory barriers and expand consumer choice, strengthen energy security, and support economic growth across rural America.”

Permanent, year-round E15 remains ACE’s top policy priority. In the absence of congressional action, the issue will be front and center when ACE members travel to Washington, D.C., for the organization’s annual Fly-In March 17–18, meeting directly with lawmakers to urge swift passage of a legislative solution.



Kennedy, Rollins Unveil Historic Reset of U.S. Nutrition Policy, Put Real Food Back at Center of Health

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins today released the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030, marking the most significant reset of federal nutrition policy in decades. The new Guidelines deliver a clear, common-sense message to the American people: eat real food.

The U.S. faces a national health emergency. Nearly 90% of health care spending goes toward treating chronic disease, much of it linked to diet and lifestyle. More than 70% of American adults are overweight or obese, and nearly 1 in 3 adolescents has prediabetes. Diet-driven chronic disease now disqualifies many young Americans from military service, threatening national readiness and limiting opportunity.

“These Guidelines return us to the basics,” Secretary Kennedy said. “American households must prioritize whole, nutrient-dense foods—protein, dairy, vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, and whole grains—and dramatically reduce highly processed foods. This is how we Make America Healthy Again.”

“Thanks to the bold leadership of President Trump, this edition of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans will reset federal nutrition policy, putting our families and children first as we move towards a healthier nation,” Secretary Rollins said. “At long last, we are realigning our food system to support American farmers, ranchers, and companies that grow and produce real food. Farmers and ranchers are at the forefront of the solution, and that means more protein, dairy, vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, and whole grains on American dinner tables.”

Under President Trump’s leadership, the Administration is restoring scientific integrity, accountability, and common sense to federal health guidance. The 2025–2030 Guidelines reestablish food—not pharmaceuticals—as the foundation of health and reclaim the food pyramid as a tool for nourishment and education.

The Guidelines emphasize simple, flexible guidance rooted in modern nutrition science:
    Prioritize protein at every meal
    Consume full-fat dairy with no added sugars
    Eat vegetables and fruits throughout the day, focusing on whole forms
    Incorporate healthy fats from whole foods such as meats, seafood, eggs, nuts, seeds, olives, and avocados
    Focus on whole grains, while sharply reducing refined carbohydrates
    Limit highly processed foods, added sugars, and artificial additives
    Eat the right amount for you, based on age, sex, size, and activity level
    Choose water and unsweetened beverages to support hydration
    Limit alcohol consumption for better overall health

The Guidelines also provide tailored recommendations for infants and children, adolescents, pregnant and lactating women, older adults, individuals with chronic disease, and vegetarians and vegans, ensuring nutritional adequacy across every stage of life.



AG Hilgers Claims Victory as New Federal Dietary Guidelines Reject Push to Demote Beef

Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers today announced a major policy victory for the State of Nebraska following the release of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030. The final guidelines reject proposals to move beef and other animal-based proteins to the bottom of the federal government’s protein priority list. 

In February 2025, Nebraska led 23 States in filing a comment letter supporting the importance of beef to a well-rounded and protein-rich diet. A committee of Biden-Harris appointees recommended that beans, peas, and lentils should be listed as the best source of protein, with meat, poultry, and eggs moved to last on the list. Today, the Trump Administration—agreeing with the Nebraska-led coalition—soundly rejected that radical proposal. 

“This is a clear win for Nebraska, for common sense, and for science,” said Attorney General Hilgers. “The federal government ultimately agreed with what we said all along: animal-based proteins like beef play a critical role in a healthy diet and should not be sidelined by ideological or unproven theories. We are pleased that the final guidelines listened to the states and the evidence.”

The new guidelines maintain meat, poultry, eggs, and seafood as core components of the protein foods group and do not reorder protein sources to place red meat last. They also emphasize adequate protein intake across life stages and acknowledge the unique nutritional benefits of animal-based proteins. The benefits of animal-based proteins, like beef, for a healthy diet are well known. No other food has as much protein, calorie for calorie, as beef and other meats. Sufficient protein consumption is linked to satiety, proper childhood development, combating anemia, and building and maintaining muscle. Beef is also an excellent source of micronutrients, which contribute to metabolic functioning, cognitive development, and hormone regulation.

“This outcome matters for Nebraska families, Nebraska ranchers, and consumers nationwide,” Hilgers added. “Our coalition made clear that downplaying beef would have ignored decades of nutritional science and harmed vulnerable populations who rely on nutrient-dense foods. The Administration’s decision not to demote red meat reflects a course correction in the right direction.”

Nebraska was proud to lead a multistate coalition advocating for science-based dietary guidance and will continue to stand up for policies that respect both evidence and the livelihoods of Nebraskans.

Joining Nebraska Attorney General Hilgers on the comment were attorneys general from the following states: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, and Wyoming.



New Dietary Guidelines Emphasize Beef’s Place in a Healthy Diet

Wednesday, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) welcomed the release of the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs). The updated DGAs nearly double the recommended daily amount for protein intake, increasing it to 1.2-1.6 grams per kilogram body weight, depending on your age group and individual caloric needs. The document focuses on building a healthy diet around whole foods, limiting highly processed foods and added sugars, and prioritizing protein at every meal like nutrient-dense beef. Red meat is specifically mentioned as a healthy source of protein in a varied, balanced diet.

“As a mom, I understand the importance of eating nutritious wholesome protein and as a rancher, I see the hard work that goes into providing the best possible food for our communities. The updated and simplified Dietary Guidelines will help more families like mine learn the facts about beef’s nutritional value and make the best decisions when they’re shopping for a nutrient-rich, whole, and delicious protein,” said Kim Brackett, an Idaho rancher and NCBA vice president. “Beef provides high amounts of protein plus nine other essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins, and gold-standard clinical studies have consistently shown that it is easy to incorporate beef into a balanced, heart-healthy diet. We appreciate Secretary Rollins and Secretary Kennedy underlining the role of beef as an important part of a healthy diet.”

The Dietary Guidelines released today are simplified and more consumer-friendly than previous cycles. The streamlined approach taken by Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins and Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. keeps science-backed recommendations at the heart of the DGAs, but makes them far more practical for the families, caregivers, school administrators, and medical professionals who are making decisions every day about what to feed our children, seniors and Americans of all ages. Other recommendations in the DGAs include:
    Incorporate beef tallow and other healthy fats into the cooking process.
    Use healthier cooking methods like baking, broiling, roasting, stir-frying, or grilling, all of which can be used with the wide variety of retail beef cuts available to American families.
    Introducing nutrient-dense foods like meat during infancy and early childhood to support growing children.

Although much discussed in recent months, the DGAs do not make any changes to the existing recommendation that saturated fats should not make up more than 10 percent of daily calories. The guidelines do note that healthy fats are a natural part of real foods like meat, and these fats support many important functions in the body like nutrient absorption.

“As Americans face the double burden of being overfed and undernourished, they are searching for reliable, affordable solutions to meet their nutritional needs and personal preferences. Thankfully, there are a wide range of beef options in the marketplace,” said Registered Dietitian and nutrition scientist Dr. Shalene McNeill, executive director of nutrition science for NCBA. “On a per-gram basis, beef offers more nutrient value that many other animal and plant options. Incorporating beef in the diet can help support the overall health and well-being for all Americans.”



U.S. Pork Producers Pleased New Dietary Guidelines Put Pork Front and Center on Plate
 
The National Pork Producers Council applauds the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's release of the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which encourage Americans to "consumer a variety of protein foods from animal sources, including eggs, poultry, seafood, and red meat."

"America's pork producers appreciate the 2025 Dietary Guidelines putting pork front and center on the plate. They took note of producer concerns and rightly gave pork and other high-protein, nutrient-dense, and delicious meats their due when it comes to Americans' health and dietary habits," said Rob Brenneman, NPPC president-elect and pork producer from Washington, Iowa.

Quintessentially American foods like pork chops and Easter hams can remain a staple of American households, and the guidelines go so far as to recommend parents introduce nutrient-dense foods including meat early and continue focusing on "nutrient-dense foods such as protein foods" throughout childhood.

NPPC has long advocated for sound science, including how the Dietary Guidelines are developed. The "upside down" pyramid released by the administration encourages consumers to feel good about eating and enjoying their protein as part of a healthy, balanced diet, and America's pork producers are proud to play a part in their wellbeing by providing readily available, affordable, enjoyable pork products.

NPPC will continue to review the new guidelines and work with the Trump administration to ensure future food policy decisions serve the health and nutrition interests of the American public and that pork continues to play a vital part.



NMPF Statement on the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans
President & CEO Gregg Doud

“NMPF thanks HHS and USDA for recognizing dairy’s critical role in a healthy diet in the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans, as shown by its continued recommendation of three servings of dairy for Americans, its recognition of dairy’s benefits at all fat levels, and dairy’s prominence in diverse diets. We are proud to benefit American health in fundamental ways, and we welcome the potential these guidelines hold for expanding upon dairy’s critical role in the diet. 

“As also shown in the scientific report that preceded today’s guidelines, reducing or eliminating dairy from the diet leads to undernourishment in key nutrients for millions of Americans. These guidelines encourage consumption of dairy nutrients critical to human health. Meanwhile, not all fats are created equal, and because the guidelines acknowledge this, dairy’s benefits are better reflected in this iteration of the guidelines.

“Now that the guidelines are out, the federal government will begin applying them across federal programs. We look forward to working with the entire nutrition community to ensure that dairy is best used to generate positive health outcomes for families across America.”



ASA Responds to 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines

The American Soybean Association responded to the release of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans for 2025-2030. The new Guidelines highlight the importance of increased protein consumption, including plant-based proteins such as soy-based foods. They also emphasize prioritizing healthy fats, including oils rich in essential fatty acids like soybean oil. However, the report’s addenda continue to call into question the process of soybean oil extraction, which is scientifically proven to be safe for human health. 

“Soybean oil and soy protein play a critical role in the health and nutrition of Americans. U.S. soybean farmers are proud to grow a heart-healthy and high-protein crop that can feed the country and the world,” said ASA President and Ohio farmer Scott Metzger. “ASA appreciates that the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans acknowledge the importance of soy as part of a well-balanced diet, but we remain deeply concerned by the rhetoric and selectively cited studies regarding the health and safety of soybean oil in DGA supporting material. We look forward to continuing our work with the administration as we educate MAHA Commission leadership on the health benefits of soy-based foods and soybean oil.”

ASA will continue to address claims that disparage the use of soybean oil and promote solutions that are healthy and safe for consumers.  

Wednesday January 07 Ag News - NC Foundation Scholarships - Doran Enters ICA Hall of Fame - DMC Drifts towards Payments - Ethanol Blend Rates tops 11% - and more!

 Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation Now Accepting 2026 Scholarship Applications

The Nebraska Cattlemen Research and Education Foundation (NCF) announced they are now accepting scholarship applications for the 2026-2027 academic year from qualified youth in Nebraska with an interest in the beef industry.

NCF President Malina Lindstrom stated, "The Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation is dedicated to supporting future professionals who are driven and passionate about the beef industry. We understand the importance of the next generation of beef industry leaders, and want to ensure they have the tools for success as they pave the way to their careers and seek to advance beef production."

The prestigious Nebraska Cattlemen Beef State Scholarship awards a $10,000 scholarship to an outstanding college junior, senior or graduate-level student. Eligible students must be residents of Nebraska and be enrolled in a Nebraska college or university pursuing a beef industry-related degree. The scholarship will be awarded based on student need, Nebraska beef industry involvement including past achievements and future plans, and academics. Completed applications are due by Sunday, March 1, 2026. Incomplete applications and applications received after the due date will be disqualified. Finalists will be invited to a personal interview with the selection committee.

NCF offers numerous other $1,000 minimum scholarships, awarded on the basis of academic achievement, beef industry involvement, and goals/quality of application. Completed applications are due by Sunday, March 1, 2026. Incomplete applications and applications received after the due date will be disqualified. Scholarship recipients must be a high school senior or college student, have a "C" or higher grade point average, and be enrolled or intending to enroll full time in a college or university that offers a bachelor's degree, an approved vocation or trade school, or a state accredited junior college. 

Applications are available on the Nebraska Cattlemen website. Questions can be referred to Ashley McClinton at AMcClinton@necattlemen.org or by calling the NCF office at (402) 475-2333.

All scholarship winners will be announced during the Nebraska Cattlemen Annual Midyear Meeting in June 2026.



IOWA CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION HONORS 2025 PRODUCER OF THE YEAR AND HALL OF FAME WINNERS

Iowa Cattlemen’s Association (ICA), the leading grassroots organization supporting Iowa’s beef cattle industry, named the 2025 Producer of the Year and 2025 Hall of Fame award winners at their annual convention in mid-December. It is with great pleasure that they announce Dennis Clarahan from Keokuk County as the 2025 Producer of the Year. Beth Doran, retired beef specialist in northwest Iowa with the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, was inducted into ICA’s Hall of Fame for 2025.

Producer of the Year
Dennis Clarahan is the fifth-generation of Clarahans to raise cattle in Keokuk County. Clarahan Farms is located in Harper, Iowa, and run by Dennis and his wife, Sheryl, along with their two sons, Ryan and Neil. The operation consists of both cattle and crops. Clarahan Farms earned its Century Farm title in 2023.

Dennis’s family shared that he got his start like most rural children, showing cattle in 4-H and FFA. Dennis has fed cattle since he was seven years old, proudly telling anyone who will listen that he has been in the business for over 60 years.

The cattle operation is very focused on carcass quality, as apparent by Dennis’s dedication and participation in the ICA annual Carcass Challenge. Starting with an Angus cow base, they use Chianina genetics on the bull side, which has led to high-yielding, high-quality carcass characteristics.

In the application, his family shared that Dennis’s herd has shown continuous improvement over the last several decades in key performance indicators, thanks to sustained selection pressure, careful management, and data-driven decision-making.

These improvements have contributed directly to an increase in the total pounds of beef produced per acre for the operation. By tracking individual performance, monitoring herd health, and maintaining detailed enterprise records, Clarahan Farms has been able to identify strengths, address weaknesses, and continue building a more productive and efficient cow herd.

Dennis is a leader – not only within the operation, but within the industry and his community. Dennis served two terms as a district director on the ICA board. He also served two terms with the American Chianina Association. He has hosted several tours of the farm as well as freeze branding clinics for local 4-H clubs. Dennis was recognized as the 2024 Commercial Cattlemen of the Year through the American Chianina Association. Last year, he and Sheryl were also recognized for being 40-year members of that association, too.

The ICA Producer of the Year nomination is meaningful as it must come from another ICA producer member. This year, Bob Noble submitted the nomination and worked with Ryan Clarahan to complete the official nomination form.

Some words shared to describe Dennis are that he is noted for quality bulls and hospitality at his sales. Bob shared that he has quite the operation and welcomes you right in. Other board members recognize him as a friendly face. In the nomination form, his family said that Dennis has instilled a love of cattle in his sons and all seven of his grandchildren.

At the Iowa Cattle Industry Convention in December, his granddaughter Reagan shared a few words and spoke to his dedication to their family farm. Words like consistency, integrity, doing things the right way, and commitment were used.

In Reagan’s words, “Beyond the cattle and the land, my grandpa has also been a teacher and a role model. He has taught our family the value of hard work, perseverance, and how to take pride in what you do. He leads by example, showing us

that success isn’t just measured by awards, but by the legacy you leave behind and the people you impact along the way. Grandpa, we are incredibly proud of you. Thank you for everything you’ve taught us, for the lessons you may not even realize you’ve given, and for showing us what it truly means to be a producer.”

Hall of Fame
Beth Doran’s passion for the cattle industry stemmed from 4-H, where she spent nine years as a youth exhibitor at a young age. This is where she began her passion for showing livestock and custom fitting. According to her brother, Gene Doran, Beth was one of the best showmen.

Beth was also scholastically talented. She has a bachelor’s degree in home economics and one in animal science. From there, she went on to get her master's degree and doctorate from Oklahoma State in feedlot nutrition. She then took an extension livestock position with Michigan State University, where she says she learned a lot, particularly about water quality and the impacts of environmental pressures. Beth attributes much of her success to the numerous mentors she was exposed to throughout her education journey and during the early years of her career.

In 1993, Beth joined ISU Extension and Outreach in a new position -- a beef specialist in northwestern Iowa. Beth said that originally it was meant to have a focus on feedlots, but having her background of showing and raising cattle on her family’s cow-calf operation, she covered both. In this role, she served 17 counties and worked directly with beef producers in the industry, supporting them with problem-solving, information, and resources.

Beth also noted that she not only worked with producers, but with the strong ag business industry in the area. She said that Northwest Iowa has a tremendous infrastructure in terms of all the goods and services that support the robust cattle industry in that part of Iowa.

One of Beth’s main contributions in this role revolved around continuous education, and some of her larger accomplishments included planning and executing Iowa’s Feedlot Forum, which is held each winter in the northwest part of the state. She has put on and delivered numerous other courses and learning events for cattle enthusiasts of all ages.

At the core, Beth said it was the people with whom she had the opportunity to work with that kept her so passionate about her job. She said that the producer's passion is contagious and that her producers were very committed to what they do and how they can keep on the cutting edge.

Beth recently retired after nearly 27 years of selflessly serving producers. She said that she is currently working on getting moved back to central Iowa to be closer to Gene and the family farm. She said she’ll remain involved in the industry, but in a different way that she’ll need to figure out.

Beth was inducted into the ICA’s Hall of Fame at the 2025 Iowa Cattle Industry Convention held in mid-December. One of the most special components of this award is that the nomination comes from peers, and for Beth, it came from a group of cattle producers from Northwest Iowa who came together to recommend her for this award.

ICA congratulates both Dennis and Beth as winners of this year’s Producer of the Year and Hall of Fame and thanks them for their commitment and dedication to bettering Iowa’s cattle industry.



Secretary Naig to Introduce First-Ever Iowa Farm Act to Strengthen Iowa Agriculture in 2026 Legislative Session

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig today announced plans to introduce the Iowa Farm Act, a first-of-its-kind, comprehensive legislative package designed to support Iowa farmers, strengthen rural communities, and position Iowa agriculture for long-term success.

“The Iowa Farm Act is about meeting today’s challenges while preparing for the future,” said Secretary Naig. “It brings together ideas we have heard directly from farmers, agribusinesses, and rural communities across the state. This package expands economic opportunities, supports the next generation, and strengthens our readiness to respond to animal disease threats. It also delivers targeted tax relief and removes unnecessary barriers that hold farmers back. I look forward to working with the Legislature and Governor Reynolds to get this package enacted to show strong support for agriculture, the cornerstone of our state’s economy.”

The legislation reflects priorities raised directly by farmers, agribusinesses, and stakeholders and is intended to provide practical, workable solutions across Iowa agriculture.

“We thank Secretary Naig for his leadership and for bringing forward the Iowa Farm Act, a forward-looking package that supports Iowa farmers, agribusinesses, and rural communities,” said Julie Kenney, CEO of the Agribusiness Association of Iowa. “This legislation demonstrates a strong commitment to Iowa agriculture and the long-term success of our state’s number one industry.”

“The Iowa Farm Act strengthens Iowa’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to a foreign or major animal disease outbreak by improving coordination, expediting the deployment of equipment, and protecting producer confidentiality,” said Aaron Juergens, President of the Iowa Pork Producers Association and a farmer from Carroll. “Iowa’s pig farmers are grateful for Secretary Naig’s leadership and appreciate the Department’s commitment to building long-term resilience in agriculture by investing in the next generation of farmers and rural veterinarians through this legislation.”

“In these uncertain economic times in agriculture, we appreciate Secretary Naig’s leadership as we work to advance policies important to Iowa farmers this upcoming legislative session,” said Brent Johnson, President of the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation and a farmer from Manson.

“Iowa cattle producers know firsthand how important it is to be prepared for the future, especially when it comes to animal health, workforce availability, and passing operations on to the next generation,” said Craig Moss, President of the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association and a farmer from Hull. “We thank the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship for taking a forward-thinking, proactive approach to these issues, and the Iowa Farm Act demonstrates a real commitment to protecting producers and keeping Iowa agriculture strong for the long term.”

“The North Central Poultry Association actively supports the Iowa Farm Act for strengthening safeguards against highly pathogenic avian influenza such as enhancing foreign animal disease preparedness and protecting producer confidentiality,” said Breck Hunt, Executive Director of the North Central Poultry Association. “Additionally, removing regulatory barriers, investing in future generations, and modernizing standards will aid Iowa’s poultry and egg producers. This legislation helps ensure Iowa remains a national leader in safe, reliable, and competitive animal agriculture.”

“From protecting farm succession and investing in beginning farmers, to expanding local markets, the Iowa Farm Act is a bold investment in Iowa's future,” said Tom Adam, President of the Iowa Soybean Association and a farmer from Harper. “We greatly appreciate Secretary Naig and his team for championing Iowa farmers and the rural communities they call home.”

“Iowa State Dairy Association proudly supports Secretary Naig and the Department’s work through the Iowa Farm Act to strengthen and grow Iowa agriculture,” said Robert Horst, President of the Iowa State Dairy Association and a farmer from Bristow. “We appreciate his leadership in ensuring Iowa remains a place where farmers can thrive.”

“The Iowa Corn Growers Association applauds the introduction of the Iowa Farm Act and Secretary Naig’s commitment to strengthening Iowa agriculture. This comprehensive package reflects the voices of farmers across our state and addresses the real needs facing rural communities today,” said Mark Mueller, President of the Iowa Corn Growers Association and a farmer from Waverly. “We are especially encouraged by the focus on modernizing regulations, delivering tax relief and growing new markets for Iowa corn and other farm products. We look forward to working with Secretary Naig, the Legislature and fellow commodity partners to move this important legislation forward and keep Iowa agriculture strong for generations to come.”

“When producers, cooperatives, and policymakers pull in the same direction, Iowa agriculture wins,” said Bobby Martens, Executive Director of the Iowa Institute for Cooperatives. “The Iowa Farm Act’s provisions deliver practical, fair relief that allows cooperatives to invest in rural infrastructure, support farm succession, and reduce costs for farmer members. That’s how we protect Iowa Agriculture and set up the next generation for success.”

“On behalf of propane marketers and fuel retailers across Iowa, the Iowa Propane Gas Association strongly supports the Iowa Farm Act,” said Michelle Brown, CEO of the Iowa Propane Gas Association. “The Act’s provisions aligning storage tank tax assessments with recent judicial rulings provide much-needed clarity, eliminate inequities in tax treatment, and support a fair, predictable business environment for energy providers and the customers who rely on them.”

“Rapid response and farmer support are critical when a foreign animal disease or other major disease outbreak occurs on an Iowa farm,” said Josh Berg, President of the Iowa Turkey Federation and a farmer from Early. “Iowa’s turkey farmers applaud the proposed Iowa Farm Act for strengthening response capabilities and clarifying farmer confidentiality. These forward-thinking provisions will enhance Iowa’s ability to support Iowa’s family farmers during times of crisis.” 

The Iowa Farm Act is a forward-looking proposal that expands economic opportunities, delivers targeted tax relief, supports beginning farmers, strengthens biosecurity and foreign animal disease response, and improves the efficiency of state government.

Expanding Economic Opportunities for Iowa Farmers
The Iowa Farm Act expands opportunities for farmers to diversify products and income, access new markets, and operate with greater certainty by:
    Modernizing Iowa’s farm zoning exemptions to clarify that value-added processing, direct-to-consumer marketing, agritourism activities and events, and other farm-supporting operations are included under Iowa’s farm exemption.
    Strengthening Iowa’s agritourism framework by updating the definition of an agricultural experience to reduce regulatory barriers and encourage farms to welcome more visitors, customers, and educational opportunities.
    Supporting Iowa’s Christmas tree industry by explicitly including tree farms in Iowa’s agritourism liability protections, providing certainty for these family-owned operations.
    Expanding local food markets by making the Choose Iowa School Purchasing Pilot Program permanent, connecting schools with Iowa farmers and food producers and creating reliable new markets for Iowa-grown food.

Delivering Tax Relief and Fairness
The Iowa Farm Act delivers targeted tax relief that lowers costs, promotes fairness, and supports farm succession by:
    Protecting family farms and succession planning by expanding the retired farmer rental income tax exemption to include modern farm business structures such as partnerships, S corporations, trusts, and estates.
    Reducing costs for grain businesses by eliminating the grain excise tax paid by cooperatives and grain handlers, supporting local elevators and a more uniformed tax system.
    Supporting growth in Iowa’s honey industry by exempting the purchase of honeybees from sales tax, reducing input costs for beekeepers and strengthening pollination services.
    Eliminating county-by-county uncertainty by codifying that above-ground storage tanks under 91,000 gallons are not subject to property tax.

Supporting Iowa’s Beginning Farmers and Ag Workforce
The Iowa Farm Act invests in the next generation of Iowa agriculture and the workforce that supports it by:
    Prioritizing young and beginning farmers in Choose Iowa grant programs, helping new producers access capital and build viable operations.
    Strengthening rural veterinary services by exempting rural veterinarian loan repayment grants from state income tax to improve recruitment and retention in underserved areas and ensure continued care for Iowa’s livestock industry.

Strengthening Biosecurity and Protecting Producers
The Iowa Farm Act strengthens Iowa’s readiness and protects producers during disease events by:
    Safeguarding producer confidentiality during a foreign animal disease or major disease outbreak to encourage early reporting and rapid response without fear of public exposure.
    Authorizing the Department to lease space for storing foreign animal disease response equipment, ensuring faster deployment and a more coordinated response.

Modernizing Department Functions and Improving Government Efficiency
The Iowa Farm Act improves efficiency while maintaining strong consumer and marketplace protections by:
    Modernizing agricultural equipment transportation standards to improve safety and efficiency for ag equipment dealers and manufacturers.
    Increasing trucking gross weight allowances for dairy products, reducing hauling costs and improving market access.
    Clarifying Grain Indemnity Fund updates through technical clean-ups to improve readability and consistent application of the law.
    Providing flexibility to expand marketing opportunities and grow demand for Iowa-made, Iowa-raised and Iowa-grown food and agricultural products through the Choose Iowa program.
    Improving flexibility in large scale inspections by allowing alternative inspection methods and scheduling discretion for the IDALS Weights and Measures Bureau.
    Streamlining and updating Iowa Code through technical clean-ups that eliminate outdated language, reduce duplication, and improve efficiency across Department operations.

As part of the Department’s broader FY27 proposal, Secretary Naig is also requesting a modest 1.6 percent budget increase of $1.335 million to maintain essential operations in animal health, food safety, consumer protection, and water quality initiatives that support Iowa farmers, consumers and rural communities.

Secretary Naig looks forward to working with the Iowa Legislature and Governor Reynolds to advance the Iowa Farm Act during the 2026 legislative session and financially support the essential operations of the Department.



Secretary Rollins Announces New Slate of Political Appointments to USDA

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced a new slate of presidential appointments to key positions at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

“Under President Trump’s leadership, USDA is building a powerhouse team of Presidential Appointees deeply committed to uplifting rural America and putting Farmers First. With strong experience in agriculture, public service, and national security, this team will protect family farms, expand opportunities, and proudly implement America First policies,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins. “I look forward to working together to deliver real results for the American people, particularly the farmers, ranchers, and producers who feed and fuel our nation.”

Starlyn Perdue Appointed as State Executive Director for Farm Service Agency in Iowa
Starlyn Perdue serves as State Executive Director for Farm Service Agency (FSA) in Iowa. A lifelong resident of southwest Iowa, Starlyn and her husband raise their sons on their family’s Century Farm. With a background in economic development, agricultural advocacy, and program administration, Starlyn is committed to strengthening Iowa’s rural economy through workforce training and business development. She remains deeply rooted in Iowa’s agricultural community and is a strong advocate for policies that support farmers and strengthen America’s rural economy.



Secretary Naig Congratulates Starlyn Perdue on her Appointment as Iowa's Farm Service Agency Director

Secretary Naig issued the following statement after Starlyn Perdue of Pottawattamie County was appointed to serve as Iowa’s USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director:  

“Congratulations to Starlyn Perdue on being named Iowa’s USDA Farm Service Agency State Executive Director. As a family farmer from southwest Iowa, Starlyn understands how vital county FSA offices are to Iowa farmers and the importance of the Farm Bill programs that FSA administers. I applaud President Trump and Secretary Rollins for this selection, and I am confident Starlyn will provide strong leadership for FSA. I look forward to working closely with her to support Iowa farmers and strengthen rural communities.” 



Secretary Naig Congratulates Doug Hoelscher on UN Appointment 

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig provided the following statement after Doug Hoelscher, a native of Hamilton County, was appointed to serve as Minister-Counselor to the U.S. Mission to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations:

“Congratulations to Doug Hoelscher on his appointment as Minister-Counselor to the U.S. Mission to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Raised on a family farm in north central Iowa, Doug brings a firsthand understanding of agriculture and a lifelong commitment to the people and communities it supports. Throughout his career in public service, Doug has built a distinguished record of advancing sound policy and strengthening agriculture’s role both here at home and around the world. Iowa agriculture will be well represented on the global stage, and I wish Doug great success as he begins this important new role.”



USDA Announces Dr. Justin Benavidez as Chief Economist

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins Tuesday congratulated Dr. Seth Meyer for his years of service to our country and announced Dr. Justin Benavidez as the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Chief Economist.

“Seth Meyer has been a trusted and steady leader at USDA, providing rigorous, objective economic analysis that has helped guide USDA and America’s farmers and ranchers’ insights into complex commodity markets. I am grateful for his years of service and the lasting contributions he has made to American agriculture,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins. “As we thank Seth for his leadership, I am pleased to welcome Justin Benavidez to USDA as our new Chief Economist. Justin brings strong policy experience, deep roots in production agriculture, and a clear understanding of the economic realities facing farmers and ranchers. I look forward to working with him as we continue to put Farmers First and ensure USDA’s work is guided by sound, data-driven analysis.”

Retirement of Seth Meyer from USDA
Seth Meyer has served as USDA Chief Economist since 2021, providing rigorous economic analysis and objective market insight to support USDA leadership, policymakers, producers, and stakeholders across the agricultural economy. During his tenure, Dr. Meyer oversaw USDA’s economic forecasting and analysis, including leadership of the World Agricultural Outlook Board and the widely followed World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report.

Prior to and during his time at USDA, Dr. Meyer brought decades of experience in agricultural economics, global trade analysis, and policy evaluation. His leadership helped guide USDA through periods of market volatility, global supply chain disruption, and evolving policy priorities.

Appointment of Justin Benavidez to USDA
Justin Benavidez has been appointed to serve as USDA Chief Economist. Dr. Benavidez previously served as Chief Economist for the Majority Staff of the U.S. House Committee on Agriculture, where he provided economic analysis on farm bill policy, commodity markets, and agricultural legislation. Before his service on Capitol Hill, Dr. Benavidez worked as an agricultural economist with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, focusing on farm and ranch management, production economics, and policy analysis. He holds bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in agricultural economics from Texas A&M University.

As USDA Chief Economist, Dr. Benavidez will lead the Department’s economic analysis and forecasting efforts, ensuring USDA’s policies and programs continue to be informed by sound, data-driven economic research that supports America’s farmers, ranchers, and rural communities.

About the Office of the Chief Economist
The Office of the Chief Economist provides independent economic analysis to inform USDA decision-making, including market outlooks, policy evaluation, and global agricultural assessments that support U.S. agriculture and food systems.



NCBA Congratulates Justin Benavidez on USDA Chief Economist Appointment

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane issued a statement on the appointment of Dr. Justin Benavidez to serve as Chief Economist at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA):
 
“U.S. cattle producers depend on economic analysis from USDA to make business decisions every day on their operations. The USDA Chief Economist is crucial to ensuring that quality data reaches farmers and ranchers around the country. Dr. Benavidez has spent his career analyzing the U.S. agricultural economy from his time at Texas A&M University to being the Chief Economist for the House Agriculture Committee. He is highly qualified for this new role and NCBA is excited to continue working with him to the benefit of America’s cattle producers.” 



USDA Dairy Products November Production 2025 Highlights

Total cheese output (excluding cottage cheese) was 1.22 billion pounds, 5.9 percent above November 2024 but 3.4 percent below October 2025. Italian type cheese production totaled 526 million pounds, 6.8 percent above November 2024 but 2.7 percent below October 2025. American type cheese production totaled 474 million pounds, 5.6 percent above November 2024 but 3.7 percent below October 2025. Butter production was 180 million pounds, 2.2 percent above November 2024 but 3.4 percent below October 2025.

Dry milk products (comparisons in percentage with November 2024)
Nonfat dry milk, human - 108 million pounds, down 9.8 percent.
Skim milk powder - 40.5 million pounds, down 9.9 percent.

Whey products (comparisons in percentage with November 2024)
Dry whey, total - 64.8 million pounds, up slightly.
Lactose, human and animal - 87.2 million pounds, up 2.7 percent.
Whey protein concentrate, total - 41.7 million pounds, up 4.9 percent.

Frozen products (comparisons in percentage with November 2024)
Ice cream, regular (hard) - 49.8 million gallons, down 2.0 percent.
Ice cream, lowfat (total) - 24.4 million gallons, down 5.2 percent.
Sherbet (hard) - 1.45 million gallons, up 10.0 percent.
Frozen yogurt (total) - 2.42 million gallons, down 9.5 percent.



DMC Margin Drifts Toward Payments
NMPF Newsletter

The November margin under the Dairy Margin Coverage Program fell to $10.04/cwt in November, another month of decline, as margins neared the $9.50 trigger level for payments at the maximum level of coverage.

The November decline was driven by a $0.18/cwt rise in the DMC feed cost formula and a $0.30/cwt drop in the all-milk price over the month. At the end of the year, the DMC Decision Tool on the USDA website predicted the December margin would be $9.19/cwt, which would generate a $0.31/cwt payment for $9.50/cwt coverage should that occur. That would be the only DMC payment for 2025.

DMC margins declined in September and October, according to USDA data released after the recent government shutdown, were $10.87/cwt and $10.52/cwt, respectively.



U.S. Ethanol Blend Rate Tops 11% in October, as E15 Expansion Continues

Ethanol accounted for 11.06 percent of the nation’s gasoline in October, marking the first time in history that the monthly ethanol “blend rate” has topped 11 percent, according to newly released data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

The Renewable Fuels Association said the record-high blend rate reflects the expanding use of E15 and flex fuels like E85, and should put to rest—once and for all—the myth that a so-called “blend wall” prevents ethanol from making up more than 10 percent of the gasoline pool.

The 12-month average blend rate, which reflects longer-term trends, also hit a record of 10.48 percent in October. Expanding availability of E15 appears to be the driving factor in the blend rate increase, according to RFA. In Iowa, for example, E15 accounted for roughly 25 percent of total gasoline sales in November, virtually doubling since the start of 2025. And with E15’s legal approval in California in October, RFA is working with retailers in that state to make the more affordable blend available to Golden State drivers as soon as possible.

“The new data from EIA and the Iowa Department of Revenue provide clear evidence that ethanol is continuing to gain market share in the U.S. fuel market as American drivers increasingly choose lower-cost, cleaner-burning E15 and flex fuels like E85,” said RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “The numbers also prove that the fictitious ‘blend wall’ is nothing but an imaginary barrier created by those who oppose American-made renewable fuels produced from American-grown crops.”

Cooper noted that expanding sales of E15 in 2025 were facilitated, in part, by the Trump Administration’s timely issuance of emergency fuel waivers allowing E15 sales to continue throughout the summer months. However, the emergency waivers are a “band-aid fix,” he said. “To truly unleash lower-cost E15 in the marketplace, we need Congress to pass legislation that permanently removes the decades-old regulatory red tape that prevents most retailers from offering E15 to their customers during the busy summer driving season. Passing year-round E15 legislation would not only continue to build on the progress we saw in 2025, but it would also open a badly needed new market opportunity for our nation’s farmers.”

RFA also underscored the importance of quickly finalizing EPA’s proposed 2026-27 renewable volume obligations, which include the highest-ever renewable fuel blending requirements.

“The continued expansion of E15 depends, in large part, on EPA’s pending action to finalize robust RFS volumes for 2026-27 and full reallocation of any small refinery exemptions granted for 2023 and later compliance years,” Cooper said. “Indeed, EIA’s data clearly show that the average ethanol blend rate actually reversed course and fell when EPA granted SREs en masse in the 2018-19 timeframe and failed to reallocate the lost volume. Farmers, ethanol producers, and consumers simply can’t afford a repeat of the demand destruction we experienced due to SREs seven years ago.”

Based on EIA’s latest short-term energy outlook, maintaining an average blend rate of 11 percent for a full year would equate to 15 billion gallons of domestic ethanol consumption.



USDA Publishes 2024 Pesticide Data Program Annual Summary 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today published the 2024 Pesticide Data Program (PDP) Annual Summary. The summary shows that more than 99 percent of the samples tested had pesticide residues below benchmark levels established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Each year, USDA and EPA work together to identify foods to be tested on a rotating basis by the PDP. In 2024, tests were conducted on 9,872 samples from 19 commodities of fresh and processed fruits and vegetables, nuts and fish. AMS partners with cooperating state agencies to collect and analyze pesticide residue levels on the selected food commodities.

USDA tests a wide variety of domestic and imported foods, with a strong focus on foods that are consumed by infants and children. EPA relies on PDP data to conduct dietary risk assessments and to ensure that any pesticide residues in foods remain at or below levels that EPA has set. The data also provide regulators, farmers, processors, manufacturers, consumers and scientists with important insights into the actual levels of pesticide residues found on widely consumed foods.

The annual pesticide residue results are reported to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and EPA in monthly reports as testing takes place throughout the year. FDA and EPA are immediately notified if a PDP test discovers residue levels that could pose a public safety concern.

The 2024 data and summary can be found on the Pesticide Data Program page of the AMS website. 



Farm Service Agency Announces Updated Schedule for County Committee Elections

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has revised the Farm Service Agency (FSA) county committee voting period, and eligible agricultural producers and private landowners across the country should receive ballots this week.  

Elections are occurring in certain Local Administrative Areas (LAA) for these committee members who make important decisions about how federal farm programs are administered locally. Producers and landowners must return ballots to their local FSA county office or have their ballots postmarked by Feb. 2, 2026, for those ballots to be counted. Newly elected members will take office on March 2, 2026.        

“Voting in your local county committee election isn’t just a ballot – it’s your voice shaping how federal programs impact your livelihood,” said FSA Administrator Bill Beam. “County committees guide decisions on disaster assistance, conservation and farm program delivery at the local level, and every producer who serves on an FSA county committee helps ensure the decisions the committee makes reflect the needs of their neighbors and their community.”   

To be eligible to vote in the county committee elections, producers must participate or cooperate in a USDA program and be assigned to the LAA that is up for election. Each year, at least one LAA in each COC jurisdiction is up for election on a three-year rotation, and each producer is assigned to vote in a single LAA. A cooperating producer is someone who has provided information about their farming or ranching operation to FSA, even if they have not applied or received program benefits.   

For purposes of FSA county committee elections, every member of an American Indian tribe is considered an agricultural landowner if the land on which the tribal member’s voting eligibility is based is tribally owned or held in trust by the U.S. for the tribe, even if the individual does not personally produce a commodity on that land. Tribal agricultural landowners 18 years and older can contact their local FSA county office to register to vote.    

Nationwide, more than 7,700 dedicated members of the agriculture community serve on FSA county committees. The committees are comprised of three to 11 members who serve three-year terms. Committee members play a key role in how FSA delivers disaster recovery, safety-net, conservation, commodity and price support programs, as well as making decisions on county office employment and other agricultural issues.    

Ballots must be postmarked or delivered in person to the local FSA office by close of business Feb. 2, 2026, to be counted. Newly elected committee members will take office March 2, 2026. Producers can identify LAAs up for election through a geographic information system locator tool available at fsa.usda.gov/elections and may confirm their LAA by contacting their local FSA office. Eligible voters who do not receive a ballot in the mail can request one from their local FSA county office.  

Tuesday January 06 Ag News - Farm Debt on the Rise - Bennett Steps Down from UNL - HPAI in Butler Co - CVA Hosts Winter Grain meetings - and more!

Climbing Farm Debt  

Weakening farm income for crop producers, increasing operating expenses, and rising feeder cattle prices led to more farm debt in 2025. According to Ty Kreitman of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, the volume of new farm operating loans nationwide was about 20% greater in the 3rd quarter of 2025 compared to the same quarter in 2024, and the average dollar size of loan was 30% more. Over 40% of Nebraska lenders reported higher loan demand, one of the highest in the Tenth District.

The Kansas City bank also reported slightly lower loan repayment rates across the Tenth District. Nebraska, though, was one of two states where bankers reported slightly improved repayment rates. However, while repayment rates improved in Nebraska, the proportion of loans on banks’ watch and classified lists rose to about 9% and 4%, respectively. Lenders also reported a modest increase in asset liquidation. More lenders said borrowers planned to sell assets to strengthen farm finances and the share of lenders who indicated borrowers did not plan to sell assets declined from 60% to 20%. Thus, loan volume, size, and repayment rates suggest producer financial health at the end of 2025 was slightly weakened compared to the beginning of the year. 



UNL chancellor stepping down Jan. 12

Rodney Bennett will step down as chancellor of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln effective Jan. 12, according to a message shared with the campus community.

The announcement comes after months of criticism, including UNL faculty leaders overwhelmingly passing a resolution expressing no confidence in Bennett’s leadership. The Faculty Senate voted 60–14 to approve the advisory resolution, the first no-confidence vote against a UNL chancellor in the university’s nearly 157-year history.

In his message announcing his departure, Bennett highlighted accomplishments during his tenure, including stabilizing enrollment, increasing incoming freshman numbers, setting records for first-year retention and six-year graduation rates, expanding sponsored research across multiple disciplines, advancing statewide extension efforts, reaching record fundraising milestones, and developing a financial sustainability plan.

Faculty criticism largely centered on Bennett’s handling of a $27.5 million budget reduction plan, including proposals to eliminate four academic programs. Faculty leaders said the process lacked transparency and sufficient shared governance, concerns Bennett and university leadership have disputed.

Bennett joined UNL as chancellor in July 2023. His contract is set to expire June 30 unless extended by the regents.



NDA REPORTS CASES OF HPAI IN COMMERCIAL AND BACKYARD FLOCKS

The Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) is reminding poultry owners to continue to monitor for and protect their birds against Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). In late December NDA in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), confirmed a case of HPAI in a commercial flock in Butler County.  Since November, HPAI cases have also been confirmed in small backyard flocks in Keith, Howard, Washington and Scotts Bluff counties. 

“While these cases are not unexpected and coincides with the ongoing wild bird migration and what we are seeing in other states, it does serve as an important reminder for Nebraska poultry producers to stay vigilant in protecting their flocks,” said State Veterinarian Dr. Roger Dudley.  “Producers should know and monitor for HPAI symptoms and follow strict biosecurity practices, which can significantly reduce the risk of the disease affecting their flocks.”

What is HPAI?
HPAI is a highly contagious virus that spreads easily among birds through nasal and eye secretions, as well as infected food, water, and manure. The virus can spread in various ways from flock to flock, including by wild birds during migratory season, through contact with infected poultry, by equipment, and on the clothing and shoes of caretakers. Wild birds can carry the virus without becoming sick, while domesticated birds can become very sick and die.

What are the clinical signs of HPAI in birds?
Symptoms of HPAI in poultry include: a decrease in water consumption; lack of energy and appetite; decreased egg production or soft-shelled, misshapen eggs; nasal discharge, coughing, sneezing; incoordination; and diarrhea. HPAI can also cause sudden death in birds even if they aren’t showing any other symptoms. HPAI can survive for weeks in contaminated environments.

Resources for poultry producers
Resources are available for poultry producers at nda.nebraska.gov/animal/avian/ and from the USDA at https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza. Poultry experiencing signs of HPAI or unusual death should be reported to NDA at 402-471-2351 or the USDA at 866-536-7593.



Gov. Pillen Presents Annual State Threat Assessment
 
Against the backdrop of a KC-135 Stratotanker and an audience that included members of the Nebraska National Guard and the Committee on Pacific Conflict, Governor Jim Pillen announced the publication of the Annual State Threat Assessment. The report is a product of the Committee, which was created through the passage of LB 1300 in 2024. It was the first such committee created among U.S. states.  
 
The report provides a non-classified overview of potential threats facing Nebraska, and concrete actions the Governor’s administration has taken during the 2025 calendar year to mitigate them. Among the findings identified in the assessment -- the administration has maintained aggressive enforcement of new statutory protections, expanded readiness capabilities and pursued governor-led trade outreach to trusted Indo-Pacific partners.  
 
There are three categories that are top priorities within the administration – agriculture and food security as national security, securing the homeland, and cybersecurity and protection of state digital infrastructure. Each area is outlined below, with a summary of concerns and actions as identified by the Committee on Pacific Conflict.
 
Agriculture & Food Security as National Security
Nebraska’s agriculture industry plays a key role in our state – with a total of 44 million acres of farms and ranches that generate approximately 5.4% of the total U.S. farm sales. China’s dominance in key supply chains enables the use of economic coercion against countries that adopt policies that Beijing opposes. Through this, it creates restrictions on key materials like gallium and germanium – which are used in agricultural technologies such as precision farming equipment and pharmaceuticals.  
 
With a dependency on China, this could disrupt Nebraska’s fertilizer and biotech inputs during trade disputes, amplifying risk to crop yields and livestock health. In 2024, Nebraska passed LB 1301, the Foreign-owned Real Estate National Security Act. The new law disallows the purchasing or leasing of Nebraska agricultural land or property near military installations from countries of China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, and Venezuela. Furthermore, we have expanded our market with allied nations to diversify export channels and reduce single-market vulnerabilities.  




CVA Coop Hosts Winter Grain Meetings

Join the CVA Grain Team for a Customer Appreciation Meal and Market Outlook Discussion as we address some key questions for 2026 including:
- What are realistic price possibilities on old crop bushels? 
- How to incorporate government program/insurance payments into my marketing plan
- Key themes to watch in 2026 and 2027

Meeting Dates
January 7 | 5:00 pm | Elgin, NE
January 14  | 10:30 am | St. Edward, NE
January 14 | 5:00 pm | Fullerton, NE
January 19 | 10:30 am | Seward, NE
January 20 | 10:30 am | Royal, NE
January 21 | 10:30 am | Oakland, NE
January 21 | 5:00 pm | Humphrey, NE
January 22  | 10:30 am | Daykin, NE 
February 4 | 5:00 pm | Laurel, NE 
February 9 | 10:30 am | Benedict, NE 
February 9 | 5:00 pm | Shelby, NE 
February 11 | 10:30 am | Randolph, NE 

More details and register here: https://www.cvacoop.com/wgm.  



Proposed WOTUS Rule Brings Certainty to Farmers

Farmers need rules that clearly define federal jurisdiction of Waters of the United States (WOTUS). The American Farm Bureau Federation today submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Army Corps of Engineers, detailing the impact WOTUS has on farmers and elements that must be included in the new proposed rule to ensure it can withstand future legal challenges.

“Farmers and ranchers support the creation of a legally durable rule that injects clarity into the regulatory process and does not leave landowners guessing what parts of their property are subject to regulation,” wrote John Newton, vice president of public policy and economic analysis.

The proposed rule implements Supreme Court rulings that narrowed the scope of federal Clean Water Act jurisdiction by creating definitions for important terms such as “relatively permanent” and “continuous surface connection,” which determine what should be considered a WOTUS.

Among Farm Bureau’s recommendations are:
    Further defining “relatively permanent” to narrow the regulatory scope;
    Clarifying when wetlands should fall under WOTUS;
    Continued exclusion of prior converted cropland; and
    Exclusion of ditches from WOTUS jurisdiction.

“Ever-changing rulemakings that redefine the scope of the CWA have created decades of regulatory uncertainty. We have seen WOTUS definitions change with each administration, guidance documents offered and then rescinded, and confusing litigation that have provided more questions than answers. Landowners, small businesses and American families are the ones who suffer the most. This administration has an opportunity to produce a durable rule that injects clarity and certainty into the definition of WOTUS.”



NPPC Welcomes Back O'Connor as Director of Federal Affairs
 
Molly O'Connor rejoins the National Pork Producers Council as director of federal affairs in the Washington, D.C., public policy office.

"NPPC is pleased to have Molly O'Connor join the government affairs team. Molly brings a strong record of legislative advocacy, staff leadership, and coalition management across Capitol Hill and multiple administrations," said NPPC Vice President of Government Affairs Maria C. Zieba. "I am confident Molly will hit the ground running and be a strong advocate and asset for America's pork producers."

O'Connor began her career with NPPC as an international trade intern in 2011 and now returns to the organization, bringing more than a decade of experience in federal government relations and food and agriculture policy. 

Most recently, O'Connor served as director of federal government relations at CropLife America, where she led federal advocacy strategy and represented the U.S. pesticide industry. Her policy portfolio included the farm bill, regulatory reform, supply chains, and international trade. 

O'Connor also served as senior policy advisor at OFW Law, directing federal lobbying efforts for commodity and food clients on issues relevant to NPPC.



Cow-Calf Costs and Returns Update
Will Secor, Ph.D.
Extension Livestock Economist
University of Georgia

Between late-November and mid-December, the USDA was releasing a flurry of data after the government shutdown this fall. Many important reports received most of the headlines (e.g., Cattle on Feed). However, the USDA also updated its Commodity Cost of Production and Return information.

The USDA estimates that cow-calf operations brought in $1,130 per cow in revenue and incurred $691 in operating expenses in 2024. This revenue figure includes sales of calves, stockers, and cull cattle. Operating costs include expenses for feed, purchased cattle for backgrounding, veterinary services, fuel, equipment repairs, and interest on borrowed funds. The difference between these provides a net return (above operating costs) of around $439 per cow in 2024. This would be the highest nominal figure since their data begins in the mid-90s. Adjusted for inflation, this would be around $70 per cow below the high of 2014 and around $17 per cow below 2015’s estimates.

These estimates vary widely across the U.S. In 2024, the USDA estimates that the Northern Great Plains received the highest revenue per cow at $1,392, followed by the Eastern Uplands ($1,221 per cow) and Basin and Range regions ($1,130 per cow). The lowest revenue region was the Fruitful Rim ($936 per cow). The regions with the lowest operating costs per cow were the Fruitful Rim ($384 per cow), Southern Seaboard ($527 per cow), and Mississippi Portal ($587 per cow). The region that was estimated to have the highest operating expenses was the Northern Great Plains at $952 per cow.

According to the USDA, the Fruitful Rim region saw the highest returns at a little over $550 per cow, while the Prairie Gateway area of the U.S. is estimated to have the smallest returns at around $335 per cow in 2024. These differences in returns reflect differences in revenue and operating costs, but operating costs appear to dominate differences in revenue. For example, the Fruitful Rim region is estimated to have had the smallest revenue in 2024 but also the smallest operating expenses.

2025 was another strong year for cow-calf producers across the U.S. It is likely that the final figures for last year will show returns exceeded those of 2024 and may have surpassed those in 2014 and 2015. Given the supply outlook for the year ahead, 2026 will likely be another strong margin year for producers. However, there are risks: continued market volatility from this fall and winter, policy uncertainty, reduced processor capacity, and risks of high-priced beef reducing quantity demand. Exactly how strong 2026 will be is still yet to be determined.

Monday January 05 Ag News - I-29 MooU Markets and Policy Webinar - Farmer Bridge payment details announced - Corn, Soybean Crush Data for Nov'25 - and more!

I-29 Moo University Webinar... Dairy Markets and Policy Update: Interpreting Mixed Price Signals

The 2026 I-29 Moo University Dairy Webinar Series kicks off on Monday, January 12 from 12 noon to 1 p.m. CST, focusing on milk markets with Dr. Leonard Polzin.

This webinar provides an update on U.S. dairy markets and recent Federal Milk Marketing Order reforms, with a focus on how current market and policy dynamics are affecting milk prices and producer revenues. The discussion examines the ongoing downturn in dairy prices by analyzing key supply, demand, and trade factors, explaining why prices have declined, why the downturn has emerged at this point in the cycle, and how competing market signals are creating mixed price indications.

Leonard Polzin grew up on a century-old Wisconsin dairy farm and received bachelor’s Degrees in Dairy Science and Agricultural Business from UW River Falls. He completed his graduate work in Agriculture and Resource Economics from Michigan State University. He brings extensive experience as an educator and analyst to the position, having developed and provided programing on topics including market analysis, outlook and market expectations, risk management, and policy analysis.

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/25NNVN.

For more information, contact: in Iowa, Fred M. Hall, 712-737-4230; in Minnesota, Jim Salfer, 320-203-6093; in Nebraska, Kortney Harpestad, 402-472-3571; or in South Dakota, Maristela Rovai, 605-688-5488.



USDA Announces Commodity Payment Rates for Farmer Bridge Assistance Program

Last week, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced the next phase in the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program (FBA), the eligible commodity per-acre payment rates. As announced earlier this month by President Trump and Secretary Rollins, $12 billion will be paid to American farmers in 2026. Of that amount, $11 billion consists of one-time FBA program payments. This is in response to four years of disastrous Biden administration policies that created record-high input and production costs, zero new trade deals, and a forgotten rural America.

“President Trump committed to increase certainty in the farm economy, and farmers can count on these payment rate calculations when going to the bank as they plan for the spring planting season. Putting Farmers First means delivering real relief when it matters. Farmers who qualify for the FBA Program can expect payments in their bank accounts by February 28, 2026,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins. “These one-time payments give farmers the bridge to continue to feed and clothe America and the world while the Trump Administration continues opening new markets and strengthening the farm safety net.  USDA is making this process as simple and seamless as possible so producers can focus on what they do best – feeding and fueling our nation.”

Eligible Row Crop Commodities and Payment Rates: 
Below are the payment rates for the FBA eligible commodities that triggered a payment.  

Commodity, Per Acre Payment Rates
• Barley: $20.51
• Canola: $23.57
• Chickpeas (Large): $26.46
• Chickpeas (Small): $33.36
• Corn: $44.36
• Cotton: $117.35
• Flax: $8.05
• Lentils: $23.98
• Mustard: $23.21
• Oats: $81.75
• Peanuts: $55.65
• Peas: $19.60
• Rice: $132.89
• Safflower: $24.86
• Sesame: $13.68
• Sorghum: $48.11
• Soybeans: $30.88
• Sunflower: $17.32
• Wheat: $39.35

Eligibility, Program Applications, and Crop Insurance Linkage 
FBA payments are based on 2025 planted acres, Economic Research Service cost of production, and the World Agriculture Supply and Demand Estimate Report. Double crop acres, including all initial and subsequently planted crops, are eligible. Prevent plant acres are not eligible. 

All intended row crop uses are eligible for FBA except grazing, volunteer stands, experimental, green manure, crops left standing and abandoned or cover crops. 

Crop insurance linkage is not required; however, USDA strongly urges producers to take advantage of the new risk management tools provided for in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) to best protect against future price risk and volatility. The OBBBA federal crop insurance improvements include expanding benefits for beginning farmers and ranchers, increasing coverage options, and making crop insurance more affordable. 

Specialty Crop Assistance 
Of the $12 billion being provided by the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act, up to $11 billion is being directed to eligible row crop producers and the remaining $1 billion of the $12 billion in assistance is reserved for specialty crops and sugar. Timelines for payments to producers of these crops are still under development and require additional understanding of market impacts and economic needs. Producers, including specialty crop producers and stakeholder groups, can submit questions to farmerbridge@usda.gov. 

More Information 
More information FBA is available online at https://www.fsa.usda.gov/fba or you can contact your local USDA FSA county office. 



ASA: USDA Farmer Bridge Assistance Payments Fall Short for Soybean Farmers

The American Soybean Association responded to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s release of additional details regarding the Farmer Bridge Assistance program. The commodity-specific payment rates for the program will include $30.88/acre for soybeans, which will not cover the significant financial damage soybean farmers sustained this year due to the high cost of production and losses sustained during the China trade war.

ASA appreciates the administration’s focus on the economic downturn in the U.S. agricultural industry. The per-acre financial support for soybean farmers, however, will not be enough to ensure their operations can survive through the next growing season. The FBA program is a critical first step in making soybean farmers whole, but additional actions, including finalizing biofuels policies to bolster domestic markets for U.S. soy, are urgently needed.

“ASA is grateful to the Trump administration and USDA for recognizing the economic losses farmers are experiencing, but due to significant trade losses this year, the payment rate for soybeans will likely not be enough for soybean farmers to keep their operations financially solvent as we move into the next planting season,” said ASA President and Ohio farmer Scott Metzger. “While the assistance provides some relief, farmers need strong, reliable markets to guarantee the long-term success of the U.S. soybean industry. We urge the Trump administration to focus on immediate, achievable actions which will support domestic soybean markets, including finalizing policies that create a preference for soy-based biofuel feedstocks through the 2026-2027 Renewable Volume Obligations, robust biomass-based diesel volumes, and 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit tax guidance. Reliable markets depend on policies that grow demand, strengthen rural economies, and provide certainty for the next generation."

ASA urges the administration to deliver long-term demand solutions by finalizing strong biofuels policy. Finalizing EPA’s biofuel blending requirements as proposed, including the RIN credit discount for imported biofuel feedstocks that undercut domestic soybean demand, would prioritize American-grown feedstocks, support domestic energy production, and strengthen demand for U.S. soybean oil. Further, the swift finalization of 45Z tax guidance to ensure the positive changes created through One Big Beautiful Bill Act can be realized, is imperative to support biofuel industry investments. Putting these policies in place now will help ensure today’s assistance is paired with lasting market opportunity for soybean farmers and rural communities. 



Corn Growers Comment on Bridge Assistance Rates

USDA released further details today on the commodity-by-commodity national payment rates for the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program, allocating $44.36 per corn acre to growers across the country. By comparison, under the previous Emergency Commodity Assistance Program, as authorized by Congress, corn had a payment rate of $42.91 per acre. Farmers who qualify for the bridge assistance can expect payments to be made by the end of February 2026.

In response to this development, National Corn Growers Association President Jed Bower released the following statement: 
 
“We are appreciative of Secretary Rollins and the USDA for creating the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program, which begins to assist growers facing economic pain and hardships.  
 
“Corn growers have been sounding the alarm about the fact that farmers have been faced with multiple consecutive years of low corn prices and high input costs. 

“While this financial assistance is helpful and welcomed, we urgently need the administration and Congress to develop markets in the United States and abroad that will provide growers with more long-term economic certainty.” 

NCGA will continue working with USDA as the Farm Service Agency begins the implementation stage of the new Farmer Bridge Assistance Program to ensure the assistance is timely and effective for producers.  



Grain Crushings and Co-Products Production

Total corn consumed for alcohol and other uses was 519 million bushels in November 2025. Total corn consumption was down 1 percent from October 2025 and down less than 1 percent from November 2024. November 2025 usage included 93.0 percent for alcohol and 7.0 percent for other purposes. Corn consumed for beverage alcohol totaled 3.45 million bushels, down 2 percent from October 2025 and down 11 percent from November 2024. Corn for fuel alcohol, at 472 million bushels, was down 1 percent from October 2025 but up slightly from November 2024. Corn consumed in November 2025 for dry milling fuel production and wet milling fuel production was 92.0 percent and 8.0 percent, respectively.

Dry mill co-product production of distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) was 1.75 million tons during November 2025, down 9 percent from October 2025 and down 5 percent from November 2024. Distillers wet grains (DWG) 65 percent or more moisture was 1.26 million tons in November 2025, up 2 percent from October 2025 and up 1 percent from November 2024.

Wet mill corn gluten feed production was 251,463 tons during November 2025, down slightly from October 2025 and down 3 percent from November 2024. Wet corn gluten feed 40 to 60 percent moisture was 186,284 tons in November 2025, down 2 percent from October 2025 and down 15 percent from November 2024.

Fats and Oils: Oilseed Crushings, Production, Consumption and Stocks
Soybeans crushed for crude oil was 6.62 million tons (221 million bushels) in November 2025, compared with 7.09 million tons (236 million bushels) in October 2025 and 6.30 million tons (210 million bushels) in November 2024. Crude oil produced was 2.53 billion pounds, down 8 percent from October 2025 but up 2 percent from November 2024. Soybean once refined oil production at 1.74 billion pounds during November 2025 decreased 16 percent from October 2025 and decreased 4 percent from November 2024.


 

USDA Announces January 2026 Lending Rates for Agricultural Producers

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced loan interest rates for January 2026, which are effective Jan. 1, 2026. USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) loans provide important access to capital to help agricultural producers start or expand their farming operation, purchase equipment and storage structures or meet cash flow needs.       
       
Operating, Ownership and Emergency Loans       
FSA offers farm operating, ownership and emergency loans with favorable interest rates and terms to help eligible agricultural producers obtain financing needed to start, expand or maintain a family agricultural operation.      

Interest rates for Operating and Ownership loans for January 2026 are as follows:       
    Farm Operating Loans (Direct): 4.625%  
    Farm Ownership Loans (Direct): 5.625%  
    Farm Ownership Loans (Direct, Joint Financing): 3.625%  
    Farm Ownership Loans (Down Payment): 1.625% 
    Emergency Loan (Amount of Actual Loss): 3.750%    

FSA also offers guaranteed loans through commercial lenders at rates set by those lenders. To access an interactive online, step-by-step guide through the farm loan process, visit the Loan Assistance Tool on farmers.gov.        

Commodity and Storage Facility Loans      
Additionally, FSA provides low-interest financing to producers to build or upgrade on-farm storage facilities and purchase handling equipment and loans that provide interim financing to help producers meet cash flow needs without having to sell their commodities when market prices are low.  Funds for these loans are provided through the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) and are administered by FSA.   

Commodity Loans(less than one year disbursed): 4.625%       
     Farm Storage Facility Loans:  
        Three-year loan terms: 3.500%  
        Five-year loan terms: 3.625%  
        Seven-year loan terms: 3.875%  
        Ten-year loan terms: 4.125% 
        Twelve-year loan terms: 4.250%  
    Sugar Storage Facility Loans (15 years): 4.500%         

More Information
To learn more about FSA programs, producers can contact their local USDA Service Center. Additionally, producers can use online tools, such as the Loan Assistance Tool and Debt Consolidation Tool to explore loan options.