Friday November 21 Ag News - Rural Mainstreet Index Higher in Nov - Willret, Hudson join NE Cattlemen - Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act Advances - and more!

 Rural Mainstreet Economy Retreats for Ninth Time in 2025
Almost One in Three Bankers Indicate Rural Economy Recession

For the ninth time in 2025, the overall Rural Mainstreet Index (RMI) sank below growth neutral 50.0, according to the monthly survey of bank CEOs in rural areas of a 10-state region dependent on agriculture and/or energy.

Overall: The region’s overall reading for November increased to a weak 44.0 from October’s 34.6, its lowest level since May 2020. The index ranges between 0 and 100, with a reading of 50.0 representing growth neutral.

Approximately, 31.8% of bankers reported that their local economy was in a recession. More than one in three bankers reported solid growth with no recession in sight for 2026. The remaining 30.9% of bankers reported current conditions were ok, but a recession is expected in 2026.

“Weak agriculture commodity prices and high input costs for grain producers continue to dampen economic activity in the 10-state region. On average, bank CEOs expect 18.3% of farmers and ranchers in their area to record negative cash flow for 2025,” said Ernie Goss, PhD, Jack A. MacAllister Chair in Regional Economics at Creighton University’s Heider College of Business.

Farming and ranch land prices: For the 18th time in the past 19 months, farmland prices slumped below growth neutral. The region’s farmland price improved to a frail 43.2 from 37.0 in October.  “Elevated long-term interest rates, higher input costs and below breakeven grain prices put downward pressure on farmland prices,” said Goss.

Approximately, 58.3% of bankers expect farmland prices to fall in 2026, with an average decline of 3.1% for all survey participants.

According to trade data from the International Trade Association (ITA), regional exports of agriculture goods and livestock for the first eight months of 2025, compared to the same period in 2024, fell from $7.8 billion in 2024 to $7.3 billion in 2025, for a decline of 5.9%. 

Farm equipment sales: The farm equipment sales index sank to a very weak 15.1 from 18.8 in October. “This is the 27th straight month that the index has fallen below growth neutral. High input costs, tighter credit conditions, low farm commodity prices and market volatility from tariffs are having negative impacts on purchases of farm equipment,” said Goss.

Below are the state reports:
Nebraska: The state’s Rural Mainstreet Index for November increased to 49.2 from 39.6 in October. The state’s farmland price index for November fell to 46.6 from 48.4 in October. Nebraska’s new hiring index climbed to 53.4 from October’s 49.2. Nebraska’s year-to-date exports of agricultural goods and livestock expanded to $877.8 million in 2025, up from $672.1 million in the same period of 2024, for a gain of 53.4%.

Iowa: November’s RMI for the state climbed to 47.0 from 37.7 in October. Iowa’s farmland price index for November advanced to 45.2 from October’s 43.0. Iowa’s new hiring index for November rose to 51.8 from 46.7 in October. Iowa’s year-to-date exports of agricultural goods and livestock reached $1.2 billion in 2025, up 28.4% from $967.2 million in the same period of 2024, according to data from the ITA.

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



Sawyer Willrett Begins Role as the Director of Member Services

Nebraska Cattlemen (NC) is proud to announce Sawyer Willrett as the director of member services. Originally from Malta, Illinois, Sawyer earned his B.S. in Agribusiness from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2024, where he was a Ruth Leverton Scholar and pursued minors in Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship and Krutsinger Beef Industry Scholars. Willrett previously interned in merchandising and procurement at Viserion Grain LLC and National Beef Packing Company LLC. Most recently, Willrett has been working on his family’s feedlot in Northern Illinois and serving on Illinois’s DeKalb-Kane Cattlemen’s Association Board of Directors.

Sawyer stated, “My background in the cattle industry has shaped my values and inspired my commitment to the people in it. I believe in an organization that supports cattlemen and look forward to working with the Nebraska Cattlemen staff and association members across the state for the betterment of our industry.”

“Having Sawyer join the team at Nebraska Cattlemen is a win for cattle producers in Nebraska. Sawyer has grown up in the cattle industry and has a heart for connecting with producers. I look forward to his immediate impact on working with the membership of Nebraska Cattlemen,” said NC executive vice president Laura Field.

Sawyer started his role on November 3, 2025, and we encourage members to reach out and get to know him. Sawyer can be reached via email at SWillrett@necattlemen.org.



TaraLee Hudson Named Director of Producer Relations and Engagement

Nebraska Cattlemen is pleased to announce the hire of TaraLee Hudson as director of producer relations and engagement. A native of Thayer County, TaraLee grew up on a cow-calf and row crop operation where she remains actively involved. She holds dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Animal Science and Agricultural Economics from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and participated in the Krutsinger Beef Industry Scholars Program as an undergraduate. TaraLee is a past intern of the U.S. Meat Export Federation and was a recipient of the Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation’s Beef State Scholarship. Set to graduate in December with a Master of Science in Agricultural Economics from UNL, TaraLee’s primary research focus addresses fragmentation in the fed cattle market and its implications for price transparency and discovery.

TaraLee said, “I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve Nebraska’s cattle producers in this role. My roots in production, along with my academic and industry experience, have fueled a deep commitment to the future of Nebraska’s beef industry. I look forward to connecting with current and future members across the state and working together to advance and strengthen the voice and impact of the Nebraska Cattlemen.”

NC executive vice president Laura Field stated, “Nebraska Cattlemen is excited to have TaraLee join our team. Her background growing up on a beef cattle operation and further education in cattle markets and economics make her a great fit to work with members.”

TaraLee will start her new role on January 5, 2026.



Iowa Corn Growers Applaud Reintroduction of Fertilizer Research Act to the U.S. House of Representatives

Iowa Corn Growers Association President and farmer from Waverly, Iowa, Mark Mueller, released the following statement on reintroduction of the Fertilizer Research Act to the U.S. House of Representatives, which would require the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to conduct a study on competition and trends in the fertilizer market and their subsequent impacts on fertilizer price:   

“The Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) sincerely appreciates Representatives Hinson, Budzinski, Feenstra and Gluesenkamp Perez for honoring our request for a study to review the competition and transparency within the fertilizer industry. Fertilizer prices have continued to rise, putting pressure on Iowa corn farmers who are already facing low corn prices and increased input costs, resulting in slim or even nonexistent profit margins. We need to assess the fertilizer industry to better understand pricing practices, tariffs and the exertion of market power by companies within the industry. 

“Iowa Corn is pleased that the Fertilizer Research Act has been reintroduced in both the Senate, by Sen. Grassley and Ernst, and now the U.S. House of Representatives. The continued commitment to highlighting the impact of fertilizer prices on corn farmers does not go unnoticed by Iowa’s corn growers.”   



NMPF Praises Senate Passage of Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act

The National Milk Producers Federation celebrated today’s latest step toward better nutrition for children, as the Senate passed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act by unanimous consent.

The Senate's unanimous support for the legislation means that only House passage and a presidential signature remain before improved access to dairy nutrition in schools becomes law. This bill would provide schools with the option of serving whole and 2% milk in addition to the 1%, fat-free, and flavored options currently offered. 

Whole and 2% milk are the most consumed varieties at home, offering the same 13 essential nutrients including protein, calcium and vitamin D with a taste kids often prefer.   

“Restoring schools' option to offer whole and reduced-fat milk will mean more schoolkids will get the essential nutrients they need,” NMPF President and CEO Gregg Doud said. “This commonsense legislation will help American children get back on solid nutritional footing. We’re grateful that both sides of the aisle can come together and agree on the importance of making informed, science-backed decisions that prioritize the health and future of our children.”

The Senate measure is sponsored by Senators Roger Marshall, R-KS, Peter Welch, D-VT, Dave McCormick, R-PA, and John Fetterman, D-PA. Senate Agriculture Chairman John Boozman, R-AR, and Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar, D-MN, led the committee in approving the bill by voice vote in June.

“We thank Senators Marshall and Welch for their passionate advocacy for getting this bill over the finish line in committee and on the floor. Their leadership made this win possible,” Doud said.

Whole and 2% milk were removed from school meals programs beginning in 2012 as part of an effort to slow obesity in American kids that was based on science and nutrition advice that is now outdated. Research over the past decade has found that milk at all fat levels has a neutral or positive effect on health outcomes, ranging from obesity and diabetes to heart disease. 

With Senate approval, the next step is House passage. A similar bill overwhelmingly passed the House of Representatives in 2023 but stalled in the Senate. House Committee on Agriculture Chairman GT Thompson, R-PA, has led the charge in the House on this issue for years, with Rep. Kim Schrier, D-WA, as coauthor, and this bill is expected to pass with strong bipartisan support once again. 



Farm Bureau Applauds Senate Action to Restore Whole Milk in Schools

American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall today applauded Senate passage of the bipartisan Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025.

“This is a win-win for kids and dairy farmers because the nutritional benefits of whole milk are now broadly known. By lifting the restrictions on whole and reduced-fat 2% milk in schools, kids have more access to important protein, calcium and vitamins. Because school milk accounts for almost 8% of fluid milk demand, it’s a significant market driver, too.

“Many thanks to the bipartisan leadership from Sens. Welch and Marshall as well as that from Chairman Boozman and Ranking Member Klobuchar for getting the bill across the finish line in the Senate. I urge the House to act quickly to get it to President Trump’s desk.

“This vote follows letters from AFBF to the president and Congress that, among other priorities, urged for the restoration of whole milk in schools to ensure children have access to nutritious dairy products. The availability of whole milk in schools is a step toward helping the struggling agricultural economy. We look forward to working with Congress and President Trump to advance priorities that benefit families and America’s farmers.”



Council Shares Responsible Farming Practice Advancements, Biofuels’ Carbon Reduction Capabilities At COP30

U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC) Director of Global Sustainability Carlos Suárez and USGBC Multilateral Policy Manager Linda Schmid recently attended the United Nations’ annual climate summit, COP30, to share the advancements in responsible farming practices and the carbon-reduction capabilities of biofuels.

“Some major highlights were discussions around carbon markets, carbon accounting and the need for interoperability of life cycle analysis models,” Schmid said.

“Cohesive strategies and cooperation among countries help facilitate the cross-border flow of products, like biofuels, that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”

In advance of the event, held in Belem, Brazil, the Council contributed to the International Energy Agency’s report, Delivering Sustainable Fuels Pathways to 2035, providing evidence in support of a global pledge to increase the use of sustainable fuels four-fold by 2035.

Suárez and Schmid addressed fellow attendees about ethanol’s applications for on-road, aviation and maritime transport as well as a fuel for clean cooking through speaking opportunities, pre-recorded videos and support of partners’ declarations that recognize the benefits of biofuels.

The Council participated in daily industry briefings with the International Chamber of Commerce, programming goals with the Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA) and biofuel roundtables with the Business Council on International Understanding. Schmid attended forums with the Global Carbon Capture and Storage Institute, International Energy Agency and Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) to secure engagement promoting international coordination on biofuel adoption.

In coordination with other agricultural community stakeholders in attendance, the Council organized a symposium in the Embrapa Agri Zone highlighting agriculturally based solutions in the decarbonization of transport, food security and energy access. The event showcased the efforts of agricultural producers to provide sustainable feedstocks that are developed into everyday products benefiting consumers and the environment.

“The Council’s engagement at COP30 enabled extended dialogue about the benefits of bioethanol to rural economies by reducing energy poverty and increasing farmer income, the backbone of energy and food security,” Schmid said.

“At COP, we were able to stoke demand for cross border flows of bioethanol as an immediate solution to decarbonization goals while highlighting the outstanding innovations farmers employ every day to reduce input costs on the farm.”



Meat & Poultry Processors Contribute $57.3 Billion to US Economy & Provide 584,000 Jobs

The Meat Institute today released an economic study that found the meat and poultry processing industry contributes $57.3 billion to the US economy and provides 584,000 jobs. The entire meat and poultry industry, including livestock production, animal feed, equipment manufacturing, transportation and more contributes $347.7 billion in value to the nation, supporting 3.2 million jobs.

“The meat and poultry industry is a critical and growing part of the US economy, and one that has outsized importance to rural economies,” said Meat Institute President and CEO, Julie Anna Potts. “Our member companies are often the biggest employers in their rural communities, and their impact goes beyond jobs. In addition to the taxes they pay, they invest in their communities with generous donations of food and make financial and other irreplaceable contributions to local infrastructure like housing, community spaces, schools, and childcare.”

The Meat Institute commissioned Decision Innovation Solutions to conduct the economic contribution study.

Key Findings:
Meat and Poultry Industry Direct Contributions to the National Economy in 2025:
    $57.3 billion in value 
    Nearly 584,000 jobs
    $40.6 billion in labor income
    $311.0 billion in total sales (output)
    $12.5 billion in local, state, and federal taxes

After accounting for these indirect and induced effects, the total economic contribution of the U.S. meat and poultry processing industry is:
    $347.7 billion in value 
    More than 3.2 million jobs
    $205.3 billion in labor income
    $911.7 billion in total sales (output)
    $77.0 billion in local, state, and federal taxes
(Indirect and induced effects: The meat and poultry processing industry generates significant economic activity in other industries including livestock and poultry production, animal feed manufacturing, grain and oilseed production, truck and rail transportation, equipment manufacturing, and more.)

State and Congressional District Economic Contributions:
The report also estimates the economic contributions of the meat and poultry processing industry for each state and federal congressional district. While the meat and poultry processing industry drives some economic activity in every state and nearly every district, there are some areas where the industry’s impact is undeniably irreplaceable:

Top States:
Texas, Nebraska, Iowa, Georgia, North Carolina, Kansas, California, and Arkansas.

Top Districts:
Nebraska-3, Iowa-4, Texas-13, Kansas-1, Minnesota-1, and Arkansas-3

Thursday November 20 Ag News - I-29 MooU Forage Webinar - ISU Calving Clinics - Most Fertilizer Prices Rise - Strong Pork and Ethanol Exports - and more!

Clean Fuels Elects Governing Board Members at Annual Fly-In

Members of Clean Fuels Alliance America gathered in Washington, D.C. this week for an annual fly-in and Governing Board election. The meeting connected leaders from across the clean fuels value chain providing a unified platform to advocate for stable markets, expanded production and long-term policy certainty. During the meeting, members elected seven board positions, reinforcing the association’s vision to exceed 6 billion gallons by 2030.

“Our governing board reflects the full strength and diversity of the clean fuels industry, bringing together leaders who understand the opportunities and challenges ahead,” said Clean Fuels CEO Donnell Rehagen. “With their guidance, Clean Fuels will continue driving stable markets, strong demand and smart policies that secure long-term growth for biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel.”

Clean Fuels members voted on seven board seats to serve two-year terms adding Michael Devine of the National Oilheat Research Alliance and Jeramie Weller of Minnesota Soybean Processors. The following were reelected:
    Kent Engelbrecht, ADM
    Chris Hill, Minnesota Soybean Research and Promotion Council
    Ryan Pederson, North Dakota Soybean Council
    Harry Simpson, Crimson Renewable Energy
    Dave Walton, Iowa Soybean Association

Continuing to serve on the board for a second year are:
    Greg Anderson, Nebraska Soybean Board
    Bob Haselwood, Kansas Soybean Commission
    Courtney Lawrenson, Ag Processing
    Peter Ostenfeld-Rosenthal, Seaboard Energy
    Tim Ostrem, United Soybean Board
    Mike Rath, Darling Ingredients
    Rob Shaffer, American Soybean Association
    Paul Teta, Kolmar Americas

The board appointed Kent Engelbrecht to serve as Chair, Ryan Pederson as Vice-Chair, Paul Teta as Second Vice-Chair, Courtney Lawrenson as Treasurer and Dave Walton as Secretary.

“The clean fuels industry is entering a pivotal period of growth,” said Engelbrecht following his reelection. “As federal and state policies evolve and new market opportunities emerge, it’s more important than ever for our industry to have a clear, united voice. I’m honored to help guide this organization and work alongside our members and staff to continue building the momentum needed to expand domestic production, support America’s farmers and ensure clean fuels remain a cornerstone of the nation’s energy strategy.”



Forage Webinar Series Continues December 4

The I-29 Moo University and the Northern Plains Forage Association Forage Webinar Series continue on Thursday, December 4 from 7 to 8:30 pm CST with a variety of forage topics including an overview methods to determine hay supply needs, the decision process to decide if you should quit making hay and a market outlook.

Presenters in December include:

Denise Schwab has spent the past 42 years working for Iowa State University Extension, most of that as a beef specialist based in eastern Iowa. She earned her Bachelors degree in Animals Science at Iowa State University as well as her Masters. She will discuss calculating your forage needs considering intake factors, species and body weights.

Carson Roberts is an Assistant Professor and State Extension Specialist for Forage Agronomy at the University of Missouri. Roberts holds a Ph.D. in Plant and Soil Science from Mississippi State University. He leads an applied research program on forage-livestock systems to support one of the largest beef herds in the U.S. He has a particular interest in regenerative systems that improve drought resiliency. His presentation will suggest four alternatives that could be more economical than growing hay for your animals.

Josh Bendorf is a Climate Outreach Specialist with the Wisconsin State Climatology Office, based at UW-Madison. He has held this position since March 2025. Prior to his time at the SCO, Josh worked for Pheasants Forever and the USDA Midwest Climate Hub. Josh holds a BS degree from UW-Madison and MS degree from Iowa State University. Josh's interest in weather and climate comes from his upbringing on a small dairy and cash crop farm in southwestern Wisconsin. He will offer his insights on the 2025 growing season with an early look at 2026 weather.

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/FORAGEDEC2025

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



Advanced Beef Cow Calving Clinics to Prepare Producers for Calving Season

The Iowa Beef Center is offering four Advanced Calving Clinics to help Iowa cattlemen and women prepare for a successful calving season and subsequent breeding period. Clinics will be offered at four locations across Iowa: on Jan. 6 in Fayette and Clinton counties and on Jan. 7 in Greene and Montgomery counties.

Session topics will cover essentials from conception to calving, including strategies for managing dystocia with practice using a life-size calving model, beef cow nutrition basics, neonatal calf health and care and calving distribution management. Attendees of previous Advanced Calving Clinics have reported substantial satisfaction with the program, estimating an average benefit of $1,480 per operation.

“Whether you’ve calved 10 cows or 10,000 cows, there’s always a new tip or technique to learn to help you get one more calf born alive,” said Denise Schwab, beef specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. “These clinics will feature a variety of hands-on and classroom sessions and opportunities to share questions and experiences.”

Local veterinarians Dr. Cody Sacquitne of South Winn Veterinary Clinic, Dr. Michelle Hohrman of DeWitt Veterinary Clinic, Dr. Amy Klauer and Dr. Charles Martin of Fairview Veterinary Clinic and Dr. Aimee Anderson of Anderson Veterinary Services will be present at their respective locations to provide insights on neonatal calf health and common reproductive challenges in the local area.  

“A popular feature of the calving clinics is the life-size calving model,” said Erika Woolfolk, beef specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach. “Dr. Caitlin Wiley from the ISU College of Veterinary Medicine will help participants with tips and tricks for handling difficult delivery situations.”

Additionally, Randie Culbertson, assistant professor and cow-calf specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach, will present a session on improving rebreeding success. Schwab and Woolfolk will also lead a presentation on pre- and post-calving nutrition.

Because the sessions are designed for individual hands-on learning, attendance is limited to 50 participants per clinic location, and preregistration is required. The cost is $25 per person, which includes a meal.

Those who want to attend should register at least two days in advance of their desired location date by contacting the respective county extension office:
    Fayette County: Jan. 6, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., 504 South Vine Street, West Union. To register, call 515-425-3331.
    Clinton County: Jan. 6, 4:30 to 9:30 p.m., 512 10th Street, DeWitt. To register, call 563-659-5125.
    Greene County: Jan. 7, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Clover Hall at the Greene County Fairgrounds,601 E. Lincoln Way, Jefferson. To register, call 515-386-2138.
    Montgomery County: Jan. 7, 4:30 to 9:30 p.m., White Fair Building at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds, 1809 N 4th Street, Red Oak. To register, call 712-623-2529.

This statewide program is supported through sponsorship of the calving model from Boehringer Ingelheim. Additionally, local sponsors include the Greene and Clinton County Cattlemen’s Association.

For more information, contact Erika Lundy-Woolfolk at ellundy@iastate.edu or Denise Schwab at dschwab@iastate.edu.



6 of 8 Fertilizers Cost More Than a Month Ago

Average retail fertilizer prices continued to be mostly higher during the second week of November 2025, according to sellers surveyed by DTN.

Prices for six fertilizers were higher once again, while prices for the other two were slightly lower. No fertilizer had a sizeable price move, which DTN designates as anything 5% or more. The six nutrients that were higher in price: DAP, which had an average price of $929/ton; potash $490/ton; urea $597/ton; 10-34-0 $667/ton; anhydrous $857/ton; and UAN28 $416/ton.

Two fertilizers were slightly lower looking back to the prior month. MAP had an average price of $930/ton, and UAN32 was $465/ton.

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

All eight fertilizers are now higher in price compared to a year earlier: 10-34-0 by 10%; potash 11%; MAP 15%; urea 20%; anhydrous 21%; DAP 26%; UAN32 28%; and UAN28 up 29%.



Pork Exports Remain Strong in August; Beef Decline Continues; Lamb Exports Trend Higher

USDA has released August red meat export data, which was delayed due to the lengthy government shutdown. As compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF), August data showed a relatively strong performance for U.S. pork exports and an uptick in shipments of U.S. lamb cuts. But beef exports were sharply lower than a year ago, impacted heavily by an impasse with China that has effectively locked U.S. beef out of the world’s largest import market.

August pork exports totaled 236,311 metric tons (mt), down 1% from a year ago, valued at $685.9 million (down 2%). August exports were bolstered by another remarkable performance by leading market Mexico, where shipments climbed 8% from a year ago to 102,790 mt, the fifth largest volume on record. Export value reached $252.3 million, up 9% and the second highest on record, trailing only December 2024.

For January through August, pork exports were 3% below last year’s record pace in both volume (1.93 million mt) and value ($5.48 billion). This gap is mostly attributable to lower exports to China, where U.S. pork faces retaliatory tariffs. This situation was especially disruptive in the spring months, when tariffs imposed by the U.S. and China temporarily escalated and there was growing uncertainty about the continued eligibility of U.S. plants. While this situation has since stabilized, China’s total tariff on U.S. pork and most pork variety meat had been 57% until Nov. 10, when it was reduced to 47%.

August beef exports totaled 83,388 mt, down 19% from a year ago and the lowest since June 2020. Export value fell 18% to $695.5 million, the lowest since February 2021. While exports to China plummeted, shipments were fairly steady to leading market South Korea and trended higher than a year ago to the Caribbean and Central and South America.

For January through August, beef exports were 9.5% below last year at 775,188 mt, while value declined 9% to $6.37 billion.

Mexico and Central America continue to shine for U.S. pork
Pork exports to Mexico continue to reach new heights in 2025, with January-August shipments climbing 3% above last year’s record pace in volume (781,605 mt) and 6% higher in value ($1.78 billion). The leading destination for U.S. pork is increasingly competitive, with Brazil's pork shipments to Mexico (through October) increasing 64% from a year ago to nearly 64,000 mt. However, Brazil still captured less than 5% market share, while U.S. market share is about 80%.

August pork exports to Central America also trended higher, keeping shipments to the region on a record pace. Through August, pork exports to Central America totaled 118,257 mt, up 22% from last year's record. Value soared 25% to $377.5 million, led by robust growth in Honduras, Guatemala and Costa Rica.

Pork exports to Colombia took a step back in August, falling 29% from last year's very robust totals in both volume (9,418 mt) and value ($28 million). But January-August shipments to Colombia were still on a record pace, increasing 9% to 85,707 mt, valued at $245.4 million (up 11%).

Among other markets, August pork exports trended higher than a year ago to Korea, the Caribbean, Australia and the Philippines. Shipments were below last year to China, Japan, Canada, Taiwan and Hong Kong.

Pork export value equated to $67.74 per head slaughtered in August, up 5% from a year ago, while the January-August average was $65.55 per head, down 1%. Exports accounted for 31% of total August pork production, up two full percentage points from a year ago. For muscle cuts only, the ratio exported was about one percentage point higher at 26.3%. For January through August, exports accounted for just under 30% of total production, down slightly from a year ago. The ratio of muscle cuts exported was steady at 26.1%.

Some bright spots for beef, but impasse with China weighs heavily on exports
With U.S. beef facing a multi-layered lockout in China, export results have worsened throughout 2025 as supplies of eligible product were depleted and more plants were suspended in June and August. Exports sank to just 862 mt in August, down 94% from a year ago. For January through August, exports to China were 52% below last year in volume (56,494 mt) and 53% lower in value ($484.2 million). The accumulated decline in exports for January through October is estimated at $832 million, as September and October exports are also certain to be minimal. As USMEF has previously reported, China has failed to renew registrations for the vast majority of U.S. beef plants and cold storage facilities. But renewing these registrations is just one of the steps necessary to restore access for U.S. beef in China, where 16 U.S. plants have been suspended since June and 30 facilities have been suspended since 2022. For China to return to its commitments under the U.S.-China Phase One Agreement, it must address all of the barriers obstructing access for U.S. beef.

August beef exports to leading market Korea were slightly below last year in volume, falling 1.5% to 16,823 mt. But export value still increased 3% to $168 million. For January through August, exports to Korea increased 8% from a year ago in volume (162,907 mt) and 9% in value ($1.55 billion).

Beef exports to Central America posted another strong performance in August, climbing 5% from a year ago to 1,512 mt, while value soared 50% to $17 million. Led by robust growth in Guatemala and Costa Rica, January-August beef exports to the region are on a record pace, reaching 14,520 mt, up 6% from a year ago, while value climbed 34% to $134.2 million.

Among other markets, August beef exports trended higher than a year ago to the Caribbean region, led by growth in the Dominican Republic, Bahamas and Jamaica, and to South America, led by growth in Chile (where exports have been above year-ago levels in each of the past six months) and a rebound in Colombia. Exports were also higher to Hong Kong, the Philippines, Vietnam, Europe and Morocco, but trended lower to Japan, Mexico, Canada, Taiwan and the Middle East.

Beef export value equated to $372.10 per head of fed slaughter in August, down 5% from a year ago. The January-August average was $400.16 per head, down 3.5% from the same period last year. Exports accounted for 12.1% of total August beef production and 9.8% for muscle cuts only – each down about one percentage point from a year ago. The January-August ratios were 13.1% of total production and 11% for muscle cuts, down from 13.9% and 11.6%, respectively, during the same period last year.

Caribbean and Canada drive August lamb exports higher
August exports of U.S. lamb muscle cuts totaled 220 mt, up 58% from a year ago, while value jumped 59% to $1.26 million. Growth was led by larger shipments to the Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago and Canada. Although August exports to Mexico were lower, January-August shipments to Mexico were still up 60% in volume (879 mt, the highest since 2014) and 75% in value ($3.14 million). For all markets, January-August exports increased 46% from a year ago to 2,049 mt, while value was up 29% to $10.9 million. 



Record Sales to Key Markets Propel August U.S. Ethanol and DDGS Exports

U.S. ethanol exports surged to 188.8 million gallons (mg) in August, vaulting 15% above July and running 24% ahead of year-ago levels, with momentum anchored by record-setting shipments to Canada and the European Union, which together absorbed nearly two-thirds of total volumes. Canada climbed 11% to 74.4 mg, remaining the top outlet and capturing 73% of all denatured fuel ethanol sold, while exports to the European Union skyrocketed 65% to 47.6 mg—almost entirely routed through the Netherlands, the principal destination for undenatured fuel ethanol. Beyond these markets, trade flows shifted sharply: Colombia climbed 43% to 14.1 mg to become the second-largest buyer of denatured product; India rebounded from 0.5 mg to 13.6 mg; the United Kingdom slid 50% to 10.6 mg; the Philippines eased 16% to 8.0 mg; Mexico jumped 35% to 6.7 mg; Jamaica leapt ninefold to 4.4 mg; South Korea held nearly steady at 3.8 mg; and Peru tumbled 56% to 3.7 mg. Brazil was notably absent from the market after taking 9.2 mg in July. Year-to-date U.S. ethanol exports reached 1.42 billion gallons, tracking 16% above the same period in 2024.

The U.S. did not record any imports of foreign ethanol in August. Total imports for the first half of the year stand at 3.5 mg.

U.S. exports of dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS), the animal feed co-product generated by dry-mill ethanol plants, rose 10% to 1.17 million metric tons (mt), marking multi-month highs across major destinations and record shipments to Colombia, Honduras, and New Zealand. Mexico, the largest buyer, strengthened purchases by 13% to 206,787 mt; South Korea softened 8% to 145,014 mt; Vietnam increased 9% to 120,743 mt; and Colombia grew 9% to 101,207 mt, with these four markets together accounting for half of all exports. Other notable markets included Indonesia, up 20% to 70,520 mt; New Zealand, rising from zero to 69,867 mt; and Canada, up 10% to 69,137 mt. Year-to-date DDGS exports totaled 7.64 million mt, trailing last year’s pace by 4%.

The U.S. Census Bureau will continue catching up from the government shutdown with September trade data set for release on December 1, followed by October statistics on December 4, returning the trade series to its normal schedule.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 11/14/2025

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending November 14, ethanol production climbed 1.5% to 1.09 million b/d, equivalent to 45.82 million gallons daily. Output was 1.7% lower than the same week last year but 3.1% above the three-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate decreased 0.5% to 1.10 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 16.83 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks inched up 0.4% to 22.3 million barrels. Still, stocks were 1.1% less than the same week last year and 0.2% below the three-year average. Inventories built across all regions except the Midwest (PADD 2) and Gulf Coast (PADD 3).

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, slumped 5.5% to a 4-week low of 8.53 million b/d (131.09 bg annualized). Yet, demand was 1.3% more than a year ago and 1.4% above the three-year average.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol retreated 0.8% to a 10-week low of 888,000 b/d, equivalent to 13.65 bg annualized. Net inputs were 0.4% less than year-ago levels and 0.2% below the three-year average.

Ethanol exports eased 7.6% to an estimated 145,000 b/d (6.1 million gallons/day). It has been more than a year since EIA indicated ethanol was imported.



NGFA applauds Senate Finance Committee for advancing Dr. Callahan’s nomination, encourages swift confirmation by the full Senate

The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) applauds the Senate Finance Committee for voting to advance the nomination of Dr. Julie Callahan to serve as Chief Agricultural Negotiator in the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. Today’s committee action marks an important milestone in the confirmation process, and NGFA is encouraged by continued progress toward securing strong U.S. leadership in agricultural trade.

“Dr. Callahan is the ideal choice at this critical juncture,” said NGFA President and CEO Mike Seyfert. “With global markets evolving rapidly and agricultural trade facing growing challenges, her experience and steady leadership will strengthen America’s position around the globe. She is an excellent choice. We applaud the Senate Finance Committee’s action to advance her nomination and urge the full Senate to confirm her swiftly.”

NGFA emphasized that confirming Dr. Callahan will give U.S. agriculture a seasoned advocate to expand market access, remove trade barriers, and reinforce fair, science-based standards in global markets. Her confirmation would provide essential continuity and leadership for the nation’s grain, feed, and export sectors at a pivotal time for U.S. trade policy.

In a letter sent to Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) in September, NGFA and other agricultural groups highlighted Dr. Callahan’s extensive experience in global agricultural trade and her proven record of advocating for U.S. farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses, and rural communities.



NGFA supports Selig for CFTC, commends committee for advancing nomination

The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today expressed its support of Mike Selig to be Chairman and Commissioner of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), and applauded the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry for advancing his nomination.

Mr. Selig’s thoughtful responses during the hearing reinforced his strong credentials: as Chief Counsel of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Crypto Task Force and Senior Advisor to SEC Chairman Paul Atkins, and as a former law-firm partner, he is exceptionally well-positioned to guide the CFTC at this pivotal time. With digital assets and derivatives markets evolving rapidly, his commitment to advancing regulatory clarity, in line with U.S. ambitions to remain the global leader in cryptocurrency innovation, is particularly timely.

“End-users across the grain, feed, processing, and transportation sectors depend on efficient, transparent, and resilient futures markets,” said NGFA President and CEO Mike Seyfert. “Mr. Selig’s plans to chair CFTC’s Agricultural Advisory Committee and his background in derivative markets give the U.S. agricultural value chain confidence that the CFTC will continue to safeguard traditional markets while standing up new cryptocurrency regulation. We encourage the Senate to move expeditiously to confirm his nomination so the agency can begin focused leadership under his guidance.”

Wednesday November 19 Ag News - NC YCC Participants - More on Hansen-Mueller Chap 11 Filings - Grazing Corn Residue Impacts Soil - More on updated WOTUS Rule - and more!

When will imports of Mexican cattle resume?
Alfredo DiCostanzo, Extension Educator
University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Last week a feedlot consultant asked me when I thought imports of Mexican cattle would resume. Before I go any further, I must declare that I know as much as most of you about the border closure and efforts by Mexico and the US to control the spread of the New World screwworm (NWS) fly.

Yet, I composed a response to this individual that might be worth sharing; if nothing else for pure reflection. It is based on observation and limited information, some of it gathered while I was in Mexico a few weeks ago. So, one might file this column under the "conjecture” heading.

On the one side, the Trump administration has demonstrated fair measures that protect American interests (nothing wrong with that!) on various fronts, particularly in dealing with trade, immigration and the NWS issue.

The first case of NWS in Mexico occurred in November 2024. This led USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins to suspend the imports of live cattle, bison, and horses through the southern border with Mexico (note the wordsmithing between suspension and closure). Early in 2025, a phase process was initiated between Mexico and the US to continue imports of live cattle, bison, and horses. Yet, actions by the Mexican government regarding the US efforts to deal with this issue on Mexican soil demonstrated hesitation, delay, or downright deception.

Currently, the import suspension continues month-to-month. This situation has led to continued speculation and, sometimes, false reports that imports would resume.

In the meantime, the two cases reported by Mexico close to the US border resulted from cattle that were derived from southern Mexico and were already carrying the maggot. According to local sources, the protocols in place worked so that the maggots did not reach the fly stage. The fact that no further cases resulted from these supports that assertion.

Interestingly, USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins recently returned from a trade mission in Mexico. The following is an extract from USDA’s news release on the topic of NWS: “we had a productive and positive conversation about how we will continue to work closely together to eradicate the NWS which is negatively impacting both our economies, including conducting a comprehensive joint review of our NWS response...”

Meanwhile in the US, because of the cattle import suspension, over 1 million head of feeder cattle usually sourced from Mexico have not been imported. Although a proportion of these cattle end up in many states, most of them are fed in the Texas panhandle.

This is reflected by the drop in cattle on feed inventory. During spring and summer of 2024, Texas cattle on feed inventory ranged from 2.74 to 2.84 million head with highs in April and June and lows in August and September. This year, the high was reported in April (2.67 million head) with a steady decline in cattle on feed that reached 2.5 million head in September.

The suspension of imports of live cattle from Mexico could not come at a worst time for a cattle feeding state such as Texas. Supplies of US-sourced feeder cattle are at an all time low and, if herd expansion proceeds as expected, there will be fewer cattle going into feedlots.

This leads one to wonder: how long can Texas feedlots operate with low inventories or by purchasing American sourced cattle at high prices? (In a state where feeding cost of gain is high.)

Contrary to one might suspect, Mexico cattle business is not suffering from an excess in beef cattle supply. One reason for this is that they experienced drought during the same years as we experienced it. This led to a reduction in their cow herd and feeder calf supply. Also, like their American counterpart, the Mexican consumer rediscovered beef. This led to greater interest in consuming beef. Mexican retail beef prices increased over 20% since 2024.

On one end, this appetite for beef by Mexican consumers helped consume beef from cattle otherwise destined for export to the US. Consuming Mexican beef by Mexican consumers also reduced to need to import feeder cattle. (Incidentally, the border between Mexico and Central America is closed to imports of live cattle.)

What next?

Last week, Secretary Rollins announced that a fly dispersal facility will begin operations in Tampico, Mexico covering northeastern states in Mexico. Although no specific time was given for when this facility will begin operations. Another facility being renovated in southern Mexico (Metapa) will begin producing and releasing sterile flies in the summer of 2026. This is in addition to the plan being built on US soil (in Edinburg, TX) where 300 million sterile flies are expected to be produced weekly “as early as 2026” the report indicates.

Thankfully, winter temperatures should prevail soon. This should stop or delay fly movement within Mexico.

Back to the original question, and based on this information:

When: when will imports of Mexican cattle resume? Likely not until one of the sterile fly facilities in northern or southern Mexico is in operation and cases of NSW in feeder cattle brought in from southern to northern Mexico stop.

Despite the adjustments made by the beef industry on both sides of the border, when imports of live cattle from Mexico resume, it is likely that movement of live cattle from southern Mexico (or even illegal crossings into southern Mexico) will increase. This will likely increase the risk of NSW flies or larvae crossing the border into the US.

Therefore, I consider it wise to have FDA fast-track approval of specific protocols for the control of the fly or larvae in the 



Nebraska Cattlemen Selects Young Cattlemen’s Connections Class of 2026

Nebraska Cattlemen is pleased to announce the Young Cattlemen’s Connections (YCC) Class of 2026. The selection committee chose eleven emerging leaders for the prestigious two-year program to help these participants develop a solid foundation of industry knowledge and to strengthen the future of Nebraska’s beef industry. 

This program is made possible by our generous sponsors Farm Credit Services of America, Neogen, and the Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation.

Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation president, Loren Berger, stated, "We are excited to begin investing in our next class of YCC participants who are a very impressive group of young people with a hunger to learn about the various sectors of the beef cattle industry. The Class of 2026 will undoubtedly leave this program with sharper leadership skills, greater industry knowledge, and a strong understanding of what it takes to be a great cattle producer."

Young Cattlemen’s Connections Class of 2026
Roger Carpenter, Whitman
Ted Fanta, Plainview
Angie Huwaldt, Randolph
Garret Johnson, Grand Island
Reece Krueger, Lexington
Malina Lindstrom, Elm Creek
Rudy Pooch, Tecumseh
Jason Rainforth, Wisner
Ethan Schroeder, Hebron
Marde Thomas, Hastings
Dylan Vock, Lincoln

During the two-year program, YCC members are provided with extensive communication training, given the opportunity to tour multiple Nebraska-based agriculture production facilities, and trained on how to navigate state agencies and legislative processes.

To learn more about the Young Cattlemen’s Connections Program, please visit www.nebraskacattlemen.org. 



Bad Bets, Trade War Cited as Hansen-Mueller Seeks Bankruptcy Protection

Hansen-Mueller, the Nebraska grain company that drew scrutiny from state regulators after farmers said they weren’t getting paid, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, citing a string of costly missteps that ranged from failed business expansions to multimillion-dollar software woes.

On Nov. 17, Hansen-Mueller filed for bankruptcy.
 
In its petition, the company lays out a years-long series of costly business failures and mounting regulatory pressure that it says left the Omaha-based grain firm with no choice but to seek Chapter 11 protection.

Hansen-Mueller reports losing roughly $15 million on an attempted conversion of a Fremont pasta plant purchased in 2017; another $11 million on the development of a proprietary trading software platform that never worked; and about $10 million tied to the purchase and later sale of eight grain elevators acquired from 2016 to 2017.

The company also cites $3.5 million in arbitration losses, as well as the impact of Trump-era tariffs on its export business — all of which, it says, eroded working capital and accelerated its financial decline.

Company leaders say the situation worsened sharply after the Nebraska Public Service Commission suspended its grain dealer license, triggering inquiries from other state regulators, increasing pressure from creditors and forcing executives to divert their attention away from operations and a planned sale of company assets.

According to the filing, the loss of the license created a “domino effect” that drained staff capacity, strained cash flow and ultimately pushed Hansen-Mueller into Chapter 11 so it could protect its remaining value while pursuing a rapid sale process. The PSC has since reinstated Hansen-Mueller's grain dealers license.  

The company says it has cut its workforce to about 120 employees and argues that keeping key personnel in place — including its president and chief administrative officer, who have been working 14- to 16-hour days — is essential to maintaining operations during the bankruptcy.

In court filings, Hansen-Mueller reports between 1,000 and 5,000 creditors. The company lists assets in the range of $100 million to $500 million and liabilities in the same range.

The filings show that many of Hansen-Mueller’s largest unsecured creditors are familiar names across Nebraska’s farm country, including Ag Valley Coop in Edison, which is owed about $559,000, and Farmers Coop Grain & Supply in Trenton, owed $813,000. Producer Ag LLC of Lincoln also appears on the list with a claim of roughly $933,000. Several regional and national grain players — including Cargill, owed $2.57 million, and West Plains LLC in Omaha, owed $639,000 — are also among the top unsecured creditors.

Hansen-Mueller’s core business spans several major grain markets, including a dominant position in oats trading — where the company says it accounts for 30% to 70% of the futures market, moving roughly 18 million bushels a year through facilities in Minnesota, North Dakota, Wisconsin and Ohio. The company also handles more than 77 million bushels of wheat annually, serving mills and multinational processors through sites along the I-29 corridor and a leased fleet of private railcars. Beyond its oats and wheat divisions, Hansen-Mueller runs a nationwide cross-country trading desk for corn, soybeans, milo and feed, supported by offices in Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, Ohio, Louisiana and Alabama.



Corn Residue Grazing Impacts on Soil
Ben Beckman, NE Extension Educator 

As winter approaches, corn residue offers a practical, low-cost grazing option for livestock. However, many landowners worry that it might hurt crop yield or soil health. Is that true?

Research from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln shows that with proper stocking rates, grazing corn residue has minimal downsides and provides real benefits. Studies reveal that grazing doesn’t significantly impact soil properties when done responsibly and can even improve microbial activity, which enhances nutrient cycling for the following crop.

UNL researchers tested both fall and spring grazing, finding that soil compaction stayed within safe limits, even at higher stocking densities. Grazing cattle helped return nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus to the soil, enriching it for future crops. In some cases, soybean yields following the corn crop were even higher after residue grazing compared to ungrazed fields.

Proper timing and stocking rates when grazing are key to getting the best from both your fields and cattle. Winter grazing, when the ground is often frozen, lowers the risk of compaction. If

you graze late into the season, as fields thaw out, lower stocking densities and carefully time grazing around precipitation events.

By utilizing corn residue as a winter feed, livestock owners can benefit from sustainable soil and crop practices, reduce feed costs, and improve soil health, all while preserving—or even boosting—yields.



CAP Webinar: Getting Started with Hedging
Dec 11, 2025 12:00 PM 
With Jessica Groskopf, Extension Agricultural Economist, UNL Center for Agricultural Profitability

This introductory webinar breaks down the fundamentals of hedging as a commodity marketing tool, helping producers understand how futures contracts can manage price risk and protect revenue. You’ll learn when hedging makes sense, how it fits into an overall marketing plan, and see clear, practical examples you can apply directly to your operation. Designed for beginners who want more confidence in their marketing decisions.

Register here: https://cap.unl.edu/webinars. 

Miss the live webinar or want to review it again? Recordings are available — typically within 24 hours of the live webinar — in the archive section of the Center for Agricultural Profitability's webinar page, https://cap.unl.edu/webinars. 



DWFI Annual Report highlights 15 years of global strides in water and food security

Amidst today’s global challenges—including the escalated need for food and nutrition security under mounting population pressure–the mission of the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute (DWFI) at the University of Nebraska has never been more vital. The institute’s recent annual report marks a year of critical research, capacity building and global thought leadership, and details significant progress across the Institute’s three core focus areas.

“Throughout its 15-year history, the institute has leveraged world-class University of Nebraska research; state expertise in agricultural and water resource management; and private sector partnerships to make real progress toward a water- and food-secure future for all,” said DWFI Executive Director Peter McCornick. The report also honors the nearly decade-long leadership of Dr. McCornick, who will retire from the University of Nebraska at the end of this year.

Key Outcomes and Impact Areas in FY 2025

1. Water management for high-productivity commercial agriculture
DWFI continues to solidify its expertise in climate-smart agriculture by innovating and implementing water-wise technologies and decision support systems. This year, DWFI reached several key milestones to help producers improve efficiency, reduce risk, and build resilience.
    The DAWN project is nearing completion and helping U.S. Corn Belt farmers make more informed decisions to increase profitability and sustainability.
    DWFI expanded its flux tower network to the Upper Colorado River Basin, providing crucial data for optimizing irrigation in more U.S. states.
    DWFI refined USDA models for crops like corn and soy to give producers more accurate data on precise water needs, bridging the gap between research and on-farm use.

2. Sustainable Smallholder Agricultural Water Management
Smallholder farmers produce a large share of the world’s food, yet many lack dependable access to water. This year, DWFI advanced partnerships and innovations that support agricultural climate resiliency across developing regions through practical, scalable approaches.
    Through a new Gates Foundation grant awarded last December, DWFI aims to expand Irrigation as a Service (IaaS) in sub-Saharan Africa, a promising solution to make irrigation more accessible to smallholder farmers.
    DWFI brought together business entrepreneurs from seven countries to foster collaboration around critical and nuanced smallholder irrigation solutions.
    DWFI published new reports exploring the costs and scalability of IaaS business models.

3. Environmental and Human Health in Agricultural Systems
Through science, policy and education, DWFI deepened its focus on the critical nexus of water, the environment and human health, ensuring agriculture remains part of the solution.
    The BioWRAP project is working to repurpose chicken feather waste into spray-on bioplastics, offering a sustainable way to protect soil, control weeds and manage water.
    Through its Water, Climate and Health Program, DWFI is investigating irrigation’s effects on heat stress and public health in the U.S. Great Plains and utilizing Earth observations for improved environmental health.

DWFI continues to prioritize education, capacity building and workforce development, as well as communications and convening, which are cross-cutting themes woven throughout all its initiatives. This year, the institute welcomed eight new faculty fellows, bringing its total to more than 130 University of Nebraska faculty. DWFI also supported 28 students conducting mission-relevant research. Its 2025 Water for Food Global Conference brought together 350 thought leaders from nearly 30 countries working toward the same goal of feeding our growing planet with less pressure on our water resources.

“As I conclude my time at DWFI, I am incredibly proud of our 15 years of progress and have every confidence that the institute and our global partners will continue to drive meaningful impact,” said Peter G. McCornick, executive director of DWFI.

DWFI’s 2024-2025 annual report can be found online at go.unl.edu/annualreport.



EPA & Army Corps Unveil Clear, Durable WOTUS Proposal 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin, together with Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Adam Telle, announced a proposed rule that would establish a clear, durable, common-sense definition of “waters of the United States” (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act. The proposal, unveiled at an event at EPA headquarters in Washington, DC,  follows the Supreme Court decision in Sackett and delivers on the Trump Administration's commitment to protect America's waters while providing the regulatory certainty needed to support our nation’s farmers who feed and fuel the world and advance EPA’s Powering the Great American Comeback initiative. 

The agencies developed this proposed rule using input from multiple sources, including a pre-proposal recommendations docket, information from nine public listening sessions, and consultation comments from states, tribes, and local governments. Key proposed revisions include: 

    Defining key terms like “relatively permanent,” “continuous surface connection,” and “tributary” to appropriately delineate the scope of WOTUS consistent with the Clean Water Act and Supreme Court precedent;  

    Establishing that jurisdictional tributaries must connect to traditional navigable waters either directly or through other features that provide predictable and consistent flow;  

    Reaffirming that wetlands must be indistinguishable from jurisdictional waters through a continuous surface connection, which means that they must touch a jurisdictional water and hold surface water for a requisite duration year after year;  

    Strengthening state and tribal decision-making authority by providing clear regulatory guidelines while recognizing their expertise in local land and water resources;  

    Preserving and clarifying exclusions for certain ditches, prior converted cropland, and waste treatment systems; Adding a new exclusion for groundwater; and  

    Incorporating locally familiar terminology, such as "wet season," to help determine whether a water body qualifies as WOTUS;  

    In addition, the limitation to wetlands that have surface water at least during the wet season and abut a jurisdictional water will further limit the scope of permafrost wetlands that are considered to have a continuous surface connection under the proposed rule. These proposed changes are intended to provide clarity and consistency to the continuous surface connection definition.  

When finalized, the rule will cut red tape and provide predictability, consistency, and clarity for American industry, energy producers, the technology sector, farmers, ranchers, developers, businesses, and landowners for permitting under the Clean Water Act.  



Flood Applauds Commonsense WOTUS Proposal
 
U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement on the proposed rule announced by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to revise the “Waters of the United States” (WOTUS) rule and provide greater certainty for farmers.
 
“For years, the Biden administration refused to listen to ag producers and the states that have given ongoing feedback about changes to the WOTUS rule. The Trump administration’s proposed rule reflects significant stakeholder input and is a big win for our farmers and ranchers. The new rule rolls back red tape, gives clarity to our ag producers, and protects Americans from the overreach they endured during the last administration.“



ACE Urges CARB to Move Quickly on E15 Implementation in California

The American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) submitted comments to the California Air Resources Board (CARB) calling for swift implementation guidance for E15 following CARB’s Oct. 14 Scoping Workshop on E15 Use in California. Current regulations don’t cover E15 specifications or regulatory enforcement, so ACE underscored the urgency of CARB categorizing E15 as a gasoline-grade fuel, given the recent authorization of E15 sales through the passage of AB 30 and 14 years of safe, real-world use nationwide.

“We urge CARB to move quickly with a clear statement that the sale of E15 is allowed in California, and provide guidance promptly, so California fuel marketers can begin offering the low-cost and clean fuel to consumers immediately,” stated Ron Lamberty, ACE CMO in written comments.

Lamberty emphasized that E15’s safety and compatibility are well established through EPA and DOE research and more than a decade of everyday use by millions of motorists.

“E15 is no longer a new, untested product. We now have 14 years of safe, real-world use in unmodified tanks, lines, and dispensers at thousands of retail stations,” Lamberty noted.

The organization urged CARB to classify E15 as a standard gasoline grade—consistent with federal treatment—to avoid unnecessary costs and consumer confusion.

“Treating E15 as an alternative fuel would increase the cost for retailers and confuse drivers, limiting its use and reducing the air-quality benefits for California,” Lamberty wrote.

ACE’s comments also highlighted that California’s fueling infrastructure is already largely compatible with E15. To help retailers verify compatibility, Lamberty pointed CARB to the Flex Check tool on the organization’s website flexfuelforward.com, which allows marketers to check whether existing tanks, lines, dispensers, and hanging hardware can handle E15.

“The short answer is there should be little or no cost for the majority of California’s fuel terminals and retailers,” Lamberty wrote.

Lamberty noted in ACE’s comments that E15 typically retails 5 to 15 cents below E10, helping reduce fuel costs for drivers. The organization also anticipates faster-than-average adoption of E15 in California, driven by strong blending economics, compatible infrastructure, and the state’s existing low-RVP base fuel.

 

 

Tuesday November 18 Ag News - USDA Crop Progress Report - Hansen-Mueller Files for Bankruptcy - NE Farmers Union Convention in Norfolk - EPA WOTUS Rule - Stage 2 Crop Disaster Assistance - and more!

USDA Weekly Crop Progress Report - Nov 17

Corn Harvest
Nationwide - 91% complete - 94% 5YA
Nebraska - 74% complete - 95% 5YA
Iowa - 97% complete - 96% 5YA

Soybean Harvest - 
Nationwide - 95% complete - 96% 5YA
Nebraska - 84% complete - 100% 5YA
Iowa - 99% complete - 99% 5YA

Winter Wheat 
Nationwide - 92% planted (95% 5YA) - 79% emerged (84% 5YA) - 45% good to excellent 
Nebraska - 78% planted (100% 5YA) -  75% emerged (97% 5YA) - 54% good to excellent 

Topsoil Moisture
Nebraska - 3% Surplus - 49% adequate
Iowa - 4% surplus - 62% adequate

Subsoil Moisutre 
Nebraska - 3% Surplus - 49% adequate
Iowa - 4% surplus - 63% adequate


Hansen-Mueller Co. Announces Strategic Restructuring Plan to Facilitate Sale of Assets and Maximize Value for Stakeholders

Hansen-Mueller Co. Monday announced it is pursuing a strategic financial restructuring to address its current financial challenges, facilitate the sale of its assets, and maximize recoveries for its creditors and stakeholders. To implement this restructuring in an orderly and efficient manner, the Company has voluntarily filed for protection under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Nebraska.

The Company is pursuing a Court-supervised sale process for substantially all of its assets under Section 363 of the Bankruptcy Code. This process is designed to attract one or more buyers who can continue the business operations, while providing the highest possible return to its creditors.

“After careful consideration of all available strategic alternatives, the Board of Directors determined that a Court-supervised process is the most effective and efficient way to achieve an orderly sale of our assets,” said Josh Hansen, Chief Executive Officer of Hansen-Mueller Co. “We believe this path will maximize the value of the Company’s assets for the benefit of our creditors, employees, and all stakeholders.”

Hansen-Mueller is working closely with its legal and financial advisors to navigate this process efficiently. The Company intends to continue managing its operations in the ordinary course and hopes to move through the sale and Chapter 11 process as quickly as possible.

Key Information About the Restructuring:
  - Operations: The Company expects to continue its operations as a “debtor-in-possession” under the jurisdiction of the Bankruptcy Court and in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Bankruptcy Code.
  - Employees and Suppliers: The Company intends to meet its obligations to employees and key suppliers for goods and services provided after the filing date.
  - Court Details: Case information, including Court filings and claims information, can be found at the Company’s restructuring website, managed by its claims agent, Epiq, at https://dm.epiq11.com/HansenMueller or by calling toll free (US & Canada): 877-717- 1702.

Koley Jessen P.C., L.L.O. is serving as legal counsel, Silverman Consulting, Inc. is serving as financial advisor, and Ascendant Consulting Partners, LLC is serving as investment banker to the Company.

About Hansen-Mueller Co.
Hansen-Mueller Co. is a is a nationwide merchandiser and processor of grain with a diversified agribusiness platform with locations throughout the central United States. More specifically, the Company operates nine elevators, five across the Midwest along Interstate 29. Hansen-Mueller Co. also operates four port terminals: Duluth, Minnesota; Houston, Texas; Superior, Wisconsin; and Toledo, Ohio. Hansen-Mueller Co. further owns an oats processing facility in Toledo, Ohio. Additionally, Hansen-Mueller Co. leases and operates grain trading offices located in Toledo, Ohio; Omaha, Nebraska; Salina, Kansas; Kansas City, Missouri; Tallulah, Louisiana; Grand Island, Nebraska; and Alabaster, Alabama. The Company is headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska.



Nebraska Farmers Union 112th Annual State Convention Agenda Announced

"In Good Times & Bad, You Can Count on Nebraska Farmers Union” is the theme for the 112th annual Nebraska Farmers Union (NeFU) state convention, set for Dec 5-6 at Divots Conference Center in Norfolk, NE.  NeFU President John Hansen said “For 112 years, our organization has harnessed the power of cooperation based on education to serve family farmers, ranchers, and rural communities. We build today for a better tomorrow, especially during these challenging times. 

This year’s convention brings 20 state and national speakers and leaders that will discuss a wide range of national, state, and local issues facing family farmers and ranchers.  Farmers are being financially squeezed by ever higher ag input costs, high property taxes, uncertain export markets, low ag commodity prices, and a Congress that is either unwilling or unable to pass a badly needed Farm Bill. “Our ‘can do’ organization will focus on what we ‘can do’ to bring remedy and solutions” said NeFU President Hansen  

In addition to adopting next year’s policy, NeFU will elect their president to a two-year term, two NeFU Board of Directors to 3-year terms, select a member from the membership to the NeFU Foundation Board, and elect 3 delegates and 3 alternates to the NFU Convention next March 7-9 in New Orleans, LA.  The President’s Award will be presented to retiring Farmers Union Midwest Agency General Manager Jeff Downing for his outstanding service to family farm agriculture and Nebraska Farmers Union. 



Ricketts Praises Trump Administration’s WOTUS Update: “This is What Reining in Overregulation Looks Like”

U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), a member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, Monday praised the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposed rule to modify the definition of Waters of the United States (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act.  The proposed rule aligns with the Supreme Court’s 2023 Sackett v. EPA decision, which struck down the Biden administration’s WOTUS definition.  Ricketts said the following:

“This is what reining in overregulation looks like.  The Obama and Biden administrations tried to illegally increase the EPA’s authority.  The Trump administration is following the law.  This action will deliver clarity and predictability for Nebraska farmers, ranchers, and small business owners.  I applaud President Trump and Administrator Zeldin for delivering on the promise they made to end regulatory overreach.”

Ricketts repeatedly called out the Biden EPA for overstepping its authority in issuing the WOTUS rule.  As Governor, he condemned the rule as “blatant federal overreach.”  He joined a bipartisan majority of Senators in voting to block it.  He condemned the Biden EPA’s revised WOTUS rule following the Supreme Court’s ruling in Sackett.  He also discussed WOTUS with EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin at his confirmation hearing in January.



Smith Statement on WOTUS

Monday, Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE), Vice Chair of the Congressional Western Caucus, released the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of the Army, Corps of Engineers (USACE) announced their proposed rule to define waters of the United States (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act. The proposed rule will provide needed clarity and reduce permitting barriers while ensuring EPA fulfills its mandate to protect navigable American waters.

"Today’s announcement is a win for farmers, ranchers, and landowners across the United States. For years, overreaching and inconsistent WOTUS definitions have created burdensome red tape and threatened property rights in rural America. I applaud Administrator Zeldin for taking the necessary action to restore certainty and common sense.” 



ASA Welcomes Proposed WOTUS Rule

Monday, the American Soybean Association applauded the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) for proposing a more workable “waters of the United States” (WOTUS) rule for agriculture. The proposal aims to bring clarity to how the Clean Water Act applies on working farmland and to better reflect the realities farmers face on the ground.

For decades, defining WOTUS has been one of the most complex and contentious issues in federal water policy. Since the Clean Water Act’s passage in 1972, multiple administrations and courts, including several Supreme Court decisions, have wrestled with how far federal jurisdiction should reach over wetlands and water features. The Court’s 2023 Sackett ruling found the previous WOTUS rule inconsistent with the law, and ASA strongly opposed that 2023 version, urging EPA and USACE to develop a definition that protects water quality while remaining workable for farmers.

“Soybean farmers have been asking for a WOTUS definition we can actually put to work on the ground,” said Caleb Ragland, ASA President and Kentucky farmer. “For too long, shifting interpretations have created real uncertainty about whether everyday decisions might trigger federal oversight. We appreciate that the administration, along with Administrator Lee Zeldin and Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Adam Telle, is moving toward a definition that reflects how water interacts with working farmland and respects the conservation practices growers already use. Aligning the rule with the Supreme Court’s Sackett decision and preserving long-standing exemptions for normal farm work gives producers clearer expectations and reduces the risk of costly delays or compliance surprises.”

ASA will review the proposal in detail, but this is an important step toward providing farmers the predictability they need to manage their land responsibly and keep delivering food, feed, and fuel for America and the world.



NCBA Secures New WOTUS Proposed Rule that Protects Family Farmers and Ranchers

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) announced support for the new proposed Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule released by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The revised WOTUS rule comes after decades of advocacy by NCBA and our state affiliate partners to remove confusing and burdensome regulations on cattle farmers and ranchers.

“Waters of the U.S. has been a longstanding and frustrating issue for family farmers and ranchers. Every few years, the definition of a ‘water of the U.S.’ has changed. Often, this meant that small water features like prairie potholes or dry ditches suddenly fell under federal regulation,” said NCBA President and Nebraska cattleman Buck Wehrbein. “NCBA has spent years fighting to protect cattle producers from excessive red tape. We went to the EPA, advocated on Capitol Hill, and even took this issue all the way up to the Supreme Court to protect our members from federal overreach. We appreciate the EPA finally fixing previous WOTUS rules and supporting America’s family farmers and ranchers.”
 
The revised WOTUS rule ensures that only large bodies of water and their main tributaries fall under federal jurisdiction. Past WOTUS rules issued under the Obama and Biden administrations placed small, isolated water features under federal regulation. Prairie potholes, playa lakes, and even ditches that only carried water after large storms became regulated as if they were a large lake, river or ocean.
 
In addition to congressional advocacy and technical comments to the EPA, NCBA also stood up for cattle producers’ rights in court. We filed an amicus brief in the U.S. Supreme Court case Sackett v. EPA and received a major victory in 2023 that rolled back previous overreaching WOTUS rules. NCBA also initiated numerous lawsuits under the Obama and Biden administrations to prevent harmful rules from impacting cattle producers. Since the Trump administration entered office at the start of 2025, NCBA has been working with newly appointed EPA officials to craft a new WOTUS rule that ends the uncertainty caused by previous regulations.

“Today's WOTUS announcement finally acknowledges that the federal government should work to protect lakes, rivers and oceans, rather than regulating ditches and ponds on family farms and ranches,” said NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart. “NCBA is pleased to see the EPA stand up for cattle producers, and we look forward to providing input on this proposed rule.”
 
NCBA and its state affiliate partners will submit comments to the agency on the rule, which will be considered before the rule is finalized. 



Proposed WOTUS Rule Protects Environment, Respects Farmers

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers’ proposed Waters of the United States rule.

“Clean water is a top priority for farmers and ranchers – we depend on it. We are pleased that the new rule protects critical water sources while respecting the efforts of farmers to protect the natural resources they’ve been entrusted with.

“The Supreme Court clearly ruled several years ago that the government overreached in its interpretation of what fell under federal guidelines. We are still reviewing the entire rule, but we are pleased that it finally addresses those concerns and takes steps to provide much-needed clarity. We look forward to providing comments to EPA to ensure farmers can continue to safeguard the environment while growing the food America’s families rely on.”



Trump Administration Delivers Second Stage of Crop Disaster Assistance for Farmers

Three days after the government reopened and despite the radical left Democrat caused shutdown, President Donald J. Trump and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins continue to put Farmers First, including the unprecedented move to reopen over 2,000 county FSA offices in the middle of the government shutdown so farmers could continue to access U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) services during harvest. Today, the USDA will continue to support farmers and will release billions in disaster assistance for those recovering from natural disasters across the country.

“President Trump continues to put Farmers First and provide relief to American farmers reeling from the devastating natural disasters that struck across the United States in 2023 and 2024. The continued financial success of our farming and ranching operations is a national security priority,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins. “USDA is doing whatever it takes to make good on President Trump’s promise to expedite disaster recovery assistance to U.S. farmers and ranchers, ensuring viability, prosperity, and longevity for these men and women who dedicate their entire lives to our nation’s food, fiber and fuel production. The majority of payments from the first stage are already in the hands of producers helping them prepare for and invest in the next crop year.”

USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is delivering more than $16 billion in total Congressionally approved SDRP assistance. This is on top of over $9.3 billion in Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP) assistance to over 560,000 row crop farmers and over $705 million in Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP) assistance to over 220,000 ranchers. Stage Two of SDRP covers eligible crop, tree, bush and vine losses that were not covered under Stage One program provisions, including non-indemnified (shallow loss), uncovered and quality losses. For Stage Two program details, including fact sheets, please visit fsa.usda.gov/sdrp.

The first stage, announced in July, remains available to producers who received an indemnity under crop insurance or the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) for eligible crop losses due to qualifying 2023 and 2024 natural disaster events. FSA county offices will begin accepting SDRP Stage Two applications on November 24, 2025. Producers have until April 30, 2026, to apply for both Stage One and Stage Two assistance. FSA is establishing block grants with Connecticut, Hawaii, Maine, and Massachusetts that cover crop losses; therefore, producers with losses on land physically located in these states are not eligible for SDRP program payments.

Since March 2025, USDA has supported U.S. farmers and ranchers with more than $16 billion in supplemental disaster assistance mandated by Congress in the American Relief Act, 2025 including $9.3 billion through the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program, over $1 billion through the Emergency Livestock Relief Program and, to date, more than $5.7 billion in SDRP Stage One payments.

Milk and On-Farm Stored Crop Loss Assistance
The Milk Loss Program provides up to $1.65 million in payments to eligible dairy operations for milk that was dumped or removed without compensation from the commercial milk market because of a qualifying natural disaster event in 2023 and/or 2024.

Producers who suffered losses of eligible harvested commodities while stored in on-farm structures in 2023 and/or 2024 due to a qualifying natural disaster event may be eligible for assistance through the On-Farm Stored Commodity Loss Program, which provides for up to $5 million to impacted producers.

The enrollment period to apply for milk and on-farm stored commodity losses is Nov. 24, 2025, through Jan. 23, 2026. Information and fact sheets for both programs are available online at fsa.usda.gov/mlp for milk loss and fsa.usda.gov/ofsclp for on-farm stored commodity losses.



Growth Energy Urges CARB to Ensure California Drivers Get Access to E15 Savings

Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, submitted comments to the California Air Resources Board (CARB) today regarding the agency’s ongoing effort to finalize regulations that will ultimately govern the sale of E15, a more affordable fuel option made with 15% ethanol that was approved for sale in California earlier this year. 

In comments authored by Growth Energy Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs Chris Bliley, the organization urged CARB to treat E15 the same way it treats reformulated gasoline (RFG), allow fuel retailers to use existing infrastructure to sell E15, and recognize E15's lower evaporative emissions compared to other fuel options, among other recommendations. 

"E15 will save Californians money at the pump," said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. "CARB must ensure that the regulations it applies to this more affordable fuel choice don't impede consumers from accessing those savings. We urge California to follow the example of other states that have widely adopted E15 in order to minimize unintended consequences, and we look forward to continuing our work with CARB to make sure California drivers start to see E15 at their nearest fuel retailer as soon as possible."  



The Fundamentals and [finally] a Little Data to Support Them
Hannah Baker, State Specialized Extension Agent - Beef and Forage Economics
University of Florida / IFAS Extension

The last several weeks have brought no shortage of headlines for the cattle industry, and the repercussions have certainly been seen in the cattle market. If there is one thing markets hate, it is uncertainty and talk about trying to “fix” it. However, as has been reiterated over the last few weeks, the fundamentals of where we are in the cattle cycle have not changed: tight supplies, strong demand, and slow expansion efforts.

The last two “In the Cattle Markets” articles have discussed the importance of remembering these fundamentals amidst the chaos of not having market data and reports to support them. The 43-day government shutdown hindered the release of several USDA market reports used by analysts and producers to make important management and marketing decisions. Before the final vote to end the shutdown on November 12th, it was announced that the World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report and the Cattle on Feed report would both be released in November. The WASDE report was released this past Friday, the 14th.

According to the WASDE report, forecasts for beef production in 2025 and 2026 were both lowered due to declining fed cattle slaughter. Beef production in 2025 is projected to reach 25.7 billion pounds, down 70 million pounds from the September projection (0.3 percent) and down 1.2 billion pounds from 2024 beef production (4.5 percent). Compared to this November 2025 projection, 2026 beef production is projected to decline by 366 million pounds, or 1.4 percent, to 25.3 billion pounds.

The future decline in beef production is a result of herd liquidation that started in 2019. This resulted in a short-term increase in beef production as more cattle were being sold for beef production. However, the U.S. cattle herd today is now the smallest it has been since 1951, consisting of 86.7 million head with 27.9 million head of beef cattle. Feeder cattle supplies are estimated at 24.5 million head, the smallest in available data. As cattle supplies continued to decrease, beef production followed suit, bringing us to the point we are at today. With limited fed and non-fed supplies, future beef production will decline while the domestic cattle herd tries to rebuild over the next several years.

Average fed steer prices are projected to be $234/cwt for the last quarter of 2025, 24% higher ($45/cwt) than the last quarter of 2024. For 2026, the projected average annual price for fed steers is projected to reach $246/cwt. While there have been substantial declines and volatility in both the futures and cash markets lately, these projections point back to the fundamental reality of tighter supplies heading into the end of this year and into 2026.

Strong consumer demand coupled with low supply results in high cattle and beef prices. As we approach expansion, more heifers will be placed into the breeding herd rather than into feedlots, further limiting beef production. Over time, calves raised by those retained heifers will contribute to increasing beef production. There is heavy emphasis on time. Calves raised by retained heifers this fall will not enter beef production until 2028-2029. With few signs of heifer retention so far in 2025, this is the earliest we could see increases in beef production. As of July 2025, the percentage of heifers on feed is 38.1%. During the last expansion, this percentage was in the lower thirties. The November Cattle on Feed report is set to be released this Friday, the 21st, and could provide a steer-heifer breakdown that we missed in October. But there was no mention of the inclusion of the breakdown in the announcement.

Very simply put, high prices will eventually incentivize rebuilding, meaning fewer heifers entering the market, resulting in peak cattle prices. As cattle numbers increase, beef production will increase, and cattle and beef prices will decrease over time. Expansion efforts will be dependent upon higher cattle prices, future profitability, and forage availability. The reality of consumers balking at the meat counter is still a real concern that could influence beef and cattle prices, but so far, that has not been the case. These last few weeks have been an important reminder of two things: the importance of risk management in a highly volatile market and the dynamics of how cattle cycles and markets work.

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

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

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

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

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



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



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

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

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

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



Nebraska Corn Board to Meet

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

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

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

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




Organic Grain Production Topic of Dec. 2 Conference

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



ASA Grateful for Executive Order Action to Reduce Fertilizer Costs

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

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

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



Statement on Tariff Rollback on Fertilizers

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

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



U.S. Dairy Praises Latin American Trade Frameworks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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




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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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