Friday January 31 Ag News

 Crop Relief Payments
NeFB Newsletter

Congress passed a continuous resolution (CR) in December providing two pools of aid for agriculture under the American Relief Act of 2025. One pool, the “economic” assistance package, contained $10 billion aimed at helping bridge the rising gap between farm revenues and costs. This one-time payment is geared towards short-term economic relief for farmers struggling with low prices and high input costs. With details yet to be finalized by the USDA, there are many questions about how the payments will be distributed and what the finalized formula for payments will look like. Estimates, though, have been made by economists at American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF).... these are dollars per acre estimates...  
Corn - $43.80
Soybeans - $30.61
Wheat - $31.80
Grain Sorghum - $41.85
Oats - $78.42

Abygail Streff, economist and policy analyst with Nebraska Farm Bureau, used the AFBF estimates to calculate potential relief payments for Nebraska producers by county. While the payments will be based on 2024 planted acres for each crop, Streff’s analysis uses 2023 harvested acres as a proxy. Thus, actual payments will differ. Moreover, harvested acres were not reported for all counties, so payment estimates could not be calculated for every county.

Total Payments by County - Corn - Soybeans
Cuming - $6,351,000 - $3,731,359
Platte - $8,308,860 - $3,869,104
Dodge - $6,210,840 - $3,660,956
Saunders - $8059,200 - $4,866,990

Estimates suggest Nebraska producers can expect between $615-$630 million in relief from the disaster assistance package. Whether it is enough to offset or overcome last year’s negative returns is an open question. According to FarmDoc Daily published by the University of Illinois, the payments will not be enough to offset losses experienced by Illinois corn, soybean, wheat, and sorghum producers. One would expect it would be the same for Nebraska producers. The aid will help bridge the gap, but it won’t fully fill the gap. County payment figures and Streff’s analysis can be found here https://files.constantcontact.com/e02cf90a301/9f78291e-4477-4110-a1b7-1bd96f99447d.pdf?rdr=true.



Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Detected in Nebraska Poultry

The Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA), in conjunction with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has detected the first cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in 2025.  The first case was discovered in a backyard poultry flock in Kearney County and the second case was discovered in a backyard flock in Nance County.

State Veterinarian Dr. Roger Dudley reminds producers to practice good biosecurity with their flocks including minimizing exposure to wild birds and washing hands and changing clothes (including shoes) before and after coming into contact with poultry.

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

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

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



Nebraska Corn Growers Association Elects Officers, At-Large Directors

Members of the Nebraska Corn Growers Association (NeCGA) gathered at the Holthus Convention Center on Wednesday, January 22, for their Annual Meeting. Following the Annual Meeting, NeCGA held a regular board meeting and elected officers.

Michael Dibbern of Cairo was elected as president. Other officers elected include Dave Merrell of St. Edward, vice president and Ethan Zoerb of Ravenna, secretary. Re-elected to treasurer was Dave Warner of Albion. Chris Grams of Upland moved to chairman.

During the Annual Meeting, NeCGA delegates elected two at-large members to the board. Rick Gruber of Benedict and Michael Dibbern of Cairo were re-elected to serve three-year terms.

“We are very grateful for the volunteer efforts that our grower leadership and officers give on an annual basis,” said Kelly Brunkhorst, executive director of NeCGA. “I look forward to working alongside our leadership team and board of directors in increasing opportunities for our membership in the coming year. I also want to thank Andy Jobman, who completed his officer rotation this year.

During the award session of Annual Meeting, Steve White of NTV was awarded the Golden Ear award for his dedication to sharing agricultural news across Nebraska. Cale Buhr from Inland was awarded the Top Recruiter award for recruiting 25 members in 2024 and will attend Commodity Classic in Denver with NeCGA.

The Nebraska Corn Growers Association (NeCGA) is a grassroots commodity organization that works to advance Nebraska corn farmers through leadership, policy and education.  NeCGA has more than 2,400 dues-paying members in Nebraska. NeCGA is affiliated with the National Corn Growers Association, which has more than 36,000 dues-paying members nationwide.



Midwest Dairy offers six Nebraska Division Scholarships for students

Midwest Dairy has announced they are now seeking students to apply for the Nebraska Division College Scholarship for the 2025-2026 academic school year. Students are invited to apply for the scholarship until March 1 through an online process.

Online scholarship applications are due March 1, 2025. Applicants will be evaluated on contribution to and involvement in the dairy industry, leadership, career plans, and academic standing. For online application and more information, go to: https://www.midwestdairy.com/nebraska-scholarships

There are two levels of scholarships available.
• Full-time undergraduate and graduate students with minimum second-year enrollment at an accredited college. Preference will be given to those pursuing a career within and/or supporting the dairy industry. Scholarship levels include one (1) $1,500 and two (2) $1,000 awards. When answering the essay question on future career plans, applications are to describe how their education will be used to support the dairy industry.
• Full-time undergraduate and graduate students at an accredited college. First-year students are eligible for this scholarship level. Scholarship level includes three (3) $500 awards.

To be eligible for this scholarship opportunity applicant must also contribute to Midwest Dairy checkoff as of January 1 of the current calendar year by one of the following:
o Applicant, or applicant’s parents/guardians/grandparents/sibling, must own a dairy farm located in the state of Nebraska.
o Applicant must be employed on a dairy farm located in the state of Nebraska and be recommended by the producer employer.
Former recipients of the scholarship may re-apply in subsequent years, providing they remain eligible.

“The Midwest Dairy Nebraska Division Scholarship is about recognizing students who are committed to building up the dairy industry and carrying it forward into the future,” said Tracy J. Behnken, Manager of Farmer Relations in Nebraska. “We are proud to continue our commitment to these remarkable students and the hardworking dairy farm families Midwest Dairy represents.”

Dairy students are also invited to apply for scholarships from Dairy Management Inc., which offers checkoff-funded scholarships at the national level. For more information about the dairy  scholarships, please visit https://www.midwestdairy.com/young-dairy-leaders/dairy-scholarships/.



Iowa Ag Expo’s Innovation Hubs: The Future of Agriculture Technology

The Iowa Ag Expo proudly presents its second year of Innovation Hubs, dedicated showcases of cutting-edge agricultural technology. The Expo continues to drive agricultural advancement and empower producers with state-of-the-art solutions.

The Innovation Hub is more than an exhibit—it’s a launchpad for disruptive technologies and the next generation of ag entrepreneurs. Farmers have a unique opportunity to experience industry-changing advancements in a dedicated space, unlike other farm shows.

In 2025, the Innovation Hubs aim to grow from 47 to 55-60 participating companies across two areas at the Iowa Events Center: the Ballroom of Community Choice and the Wells Fargo Arena floor. Companies are selected for their novel and transformative products, ensuring visitors see only the best in agricultural innovation.

“The Innovation Hubs epitomize our commitment to driving progress in agriculture,” said Expo Director Tom Junge. “It’s a launchpad for visionary ideas, groundbreaking products, and entrepreneurs.”

The Ballroom-level Hub, approximately 6,500 sq. ft., will feature royal blue aisle runners, and white drapes for a clean, tech-forward look. Uplighting around the perimeter and rigged lighting from above will highlight exhibitors, while a drop-down video screen displays Innovation Hub participants. A box sign with rigged lighting will visually define the area.

In Wells Fargo Arena, the 4-sided jumbotron will showcase participating companies, with bright royal blue carpeting and perimeter uplighting enhancing the 4,500 sq. ft. space.

To qualify for participation in the Innovation Hubs, companies are required to meet certain criteria:
    New and Innovative Products: All products showcased in the Innovation Hubs must be genuinely new and represent a significant advancement in the industry. Merely revised or upgraded versions of existing products do not qualify.
    Selective Application Process: Companies are meticulously chosen through a comprehensive application process, with a focus on start-ups, entrepreneurs, and major manufacturers actively pushing the boundaries of agricultural technology.
    Opportunity for Return Exhibitors: Past participants of the Innovation Hubs are encouraged to re-apply, reinforcing the event’s commitment to fostering enduring relationships with the most innovative companies.

“Through the Innovation Hubs, we aim to create a thriving ecosystem that brings together innovators, growers, and prospective stakeholders, fostering collaborations that shape the future of agriculture,” Junge added.

The Iowa Ag Expo recognizes that innovation is not limited to the confines of the Innovation Hubs. As such, companies that may not meet the specific criteria are encouraged to exhibit through the general booth application process, providing an inclusive platform for all ag-related businesses to participate.

For more information about the Iowa Ag Expo and the Innovation Hub, visit https://iowaagexpo.com/innovation-hub.



Iowa Pork Producers Association Announces 2025 Iowa Pork Youth Leadership Team
    
The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) proudly announces the members of the 2025 Iowa Pork Youth Leadership Team, selected during last week’s Iowa Pork Congress in Des Moines. Amanda Ostrem of Stanhope, Calla Langel of Le Mars, and Brady Allan of Le Mars will represent the pork industry in their new roles throughout the year, promoting pork production across Iowa and beyond.

Amanda Ostrem, a sophomore at Des Moines Area Community College, has been crowned the 2025 Iowa Pork Queen. Joining her as Iowa Pork Ambassadors are Calla Langel and Brady Allan. All three leaders demonstrated exceptional knowledge of pork production, outstanding communication skills, and a deep commitment to the agricultural industry during the selection process. Each receives a $4,000 scholarship and a commemorative plaque recognizing their achievement.

The IPPA Youth Leadership Team contest evaluates participants based on a variety of criteria, including a written test on pork industry topics, individual interviews, and presentations. Judges also consider candidates’ prior community involvement and experience within the industry. The female contestant with the highest score is named Iowa Pork Queen, while the top two remaining contestants, serve as youth ambassadors.

In addition to the three leaders, several other contestants earned recognition and $200 scholarships for their participation:
    Grace England, Winterset
    Owen Koester, Gladbrook
    Allie Kruse, Cherokee
    Haley Lampe, Fort Madison
    Trudy Locke, Manchester
    Kylee Reed, Ottumwa
    Mackenzie Thiele, Elma
    Katie Vogel, Lohrville

Throughout 2025, the Youth Leadership Team will participate in a variety of events, from county fairs and community activities to the Iowa State Fair and the World Pork Expo. These engagements provide invaluable opportunities for team members to develop leadership skills, forge industry connections, and share their passion for pork production with Iowans of all ages.

"As Iowa Pork Queen this year, I am looking forward to advocating and educating on behalf of the pork industry across the state with producers, students, and the general public," said Ostrem, 2025 Iowa Pork Queen. "This industry is the backbone of our state, and I can't wait to share that with others and to help others see the pork industry for the truly amazing industry that it is."

Amanda Ostrem
Amanda is the daughter of Jared and Janie Ostrem of Stanhope in Hamilton County. She is a sophomore at Des Moines Area Community College, where she is obtaining an Associates Degree in agribusiness, with a communications certificate. Following graduation, Amanda plans to attend Iowa State University for a double major in agricultural communications and international agriculture, before pursuing a master’s degree.

Calla Langel
Calla is the daughter of Nick Langel and Kari Frerichs of Le Mars in Plymouth County. She is a sophomore at Des Moines Area Community College, where she is pursuing an agriculture business degree, and a certificate in agronomy.          

Brady Allan
Brady is the son of Mark and Alise Allan of Le Mars in Plymouth County. He is a freshman at Iowa State University, where he is majoring in animal science. Following graduation Brady hopes to pursue a career in the areas of swine nutrition or genetics.



Senate Ag to hold hearing on rural economy

The Senate Agriculture Committee will hold a hearing on the rural economy next Wednesday, Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman, R-Ark., and Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., ranking member on the committee, have announced. The hearing will be held at 10:30 a.m. in Room 106 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building.

Witnesses
§ Zippy Duvall, president, American Farm Bureau Federation
§ Rob Larew, president, National Farmers Union
§ Nathan Reed, board of directors, National Cotton Council
§ Kenneth Hartman Jr., president, National Corn Growers Association
§ Keeff Felt, president, National Association of Wheat Growers
§ Chris Engelstad, president, National Barley Growers Association
§ Amy France, chair, National Sorghum Producers
§ Josh Gackle, chairman, American Soybean Association
§ Garrett Moore, member, U.S. Peanut Federation
§ Tim Deal, vice president, American Sugarbeet Growers Association
§ Jennifer James, board of directors, USA Rice



LeGrand, Koch Meet With Top Japanese Biofuel Policymakers, Transportation Industry Leaders

U.S. Grains Council (USGC) President and CEO Ryan LeGrand and USGC Director of Global Ethanol Export Development Alicia Koch traveled to Japan this week to participate in a roundtable meeting with energy and transportation sector leaders to discuss how the U.S. ethanol industry can support Japan’s carbon emission reduction goals.

The event, organized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), also included leaders from Growth Energy and the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) to offer their input on how U.S. corn and ethanol production can benefit stakeholders in Japan.

“Japan recently announced its intention to move to blending gasoline with 10 percent ethanol (E10) by 2030 and an E20 blend by 2040, a decision that will have hugely positive impacts on consumers who will save money at the pump but also for their environment,” LeGrand said. “The Council is a longtime ally of the Japanese agricultural and transportation sectors, and we look forward to continuing to facilitate mutually beneficial trade of ethanol between the U.S. and Japan.”

Officials from the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transportation and Tourism and Ministry of Environment attended the event to provide updates on Japan’s biofuel integration efforts and hear more about the advantages of U.S. ethanol.

After the roundtable, LeGrand and Koch joined staff based in the Council’s Japan office for a separate meeting with METI to show support for Japan’s ethanol policy ambitions and develop strategies to expand the use of U.S. ethanol in Japan.

“Japan was U.S. agriculture’s second largest trading partner in marketing year 2023/2024, and there is still so much potential to grow thanks to the Japanese government’s decision to increase ethanol blending,” LeGrand said. “Maintaining relationships with the influential businesses at this roundtable event and beyond will be vital to defending the U.S. ethanol industry’s market share in Japan and leveraging that into further sales as biofuel policies continue to develop here.”