Tuesday April 29 Weekly Crop Progress + Ag News

 NEBRASKA CROP PROGRESS AND CONDITION

For the week ending April 27, 2025, there were 5.1 days suitable for fieldwork, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. Topsoil moisture supplies rated 24% very short, 40% short, 36% adequate, and 0% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 30% very short, 43% short, 27% adequate, and 0% surplus.

Field Crops Report:
Corn planted was 21%, near 20% for both last year and the five-year average. Emerged was 1%, equal to both last year and average.

Soybeans planted was 13%, near 9% last year and 10% average.

Winter wheat condition rated 17% very poor, 15% poor, 35% fair, 31% good, and 2% excellent. Sorghum planted was 1%, equal to both last year and average.

Oats planted was 80%, equal to last year, and near 81% average. Emerged was 47%, behind 52% last year, but near 43% average.



Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report

Periodic rains throughout the week resulted in just 2.3 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending April 27, 2025, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. While needed, the precipitation slowed or stopped fieldwork and cool temperatures hampered crop emergence.

Topsoil moisture condition rated 3 percent very short, 11 percent short, 75 percent adequate and 11 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 4 percent very short, 21 percent short, 67 percent adequate and 8 percent surplus.

Corn planted reached 34 percent, 2 days ahead of the 5-year average. Statewide, corn emerged was 2 percent.

Twenty-five percent of the expected soybean crop has been planted, 1 day ahead of last year and 4 days ahead of the 5-year average.

Oats seeding reached 81 percent complete, 4 days behind last year but 2 days ahead of the 5-year average. Forty-one percent of the expected oat acreage has emerged, 3 days behind last year but 4 days ahead of normal.

Pastures and grass continue to green up. Apart from some muddy feedlots, no livestock issues were reported. Some cow calf pairs were being turned out to pasture.



USDA Weekly Crop Progress Report

U.S. corn planting moved slightly behind last year's pace, but ahead of the five-year average last week, according to USDA NASS' weekly Crop Progress report released on Monday. Winter wheat conditions increased slightly last week, NASS reported.

CORN
-- Planting progress: 24% of corn was planted nationwide as of Sunday, 1 point behind of 25% last year and 2 points ahead of the five-year average of 22%.
-- Crop development: 5% of corn was emerged as of Sunday, 1 point behind last year but one point ahead to the five-year average.

SOYBEANS
-- Planting progress: An estimated 18% of intended soybean acreage was planted as of Sunday, 1 point ahead of last year's 17% at this time and 6 points ahead of the five-year average of 12%.

WINTER WHEAT
-- Crop condition: An estimated 49% of winter wheat was rated good to excellent as of April 27, up 4 points from 45% the previous week and consistent with 49% at the same time last year, according to NASS.
-- Crop development: 27% of winter wheat was headed nationwide as of Sunday. That's 1 percentage point behind last year's 28% but 5 points ahead of the five-year average.

SPRING WHEAT
-- Planting progress: 30% of the crop was planted nationwide as of April 27, 1 point behind of last year's 31% and 9 points ahead of 21% for the five-year average.
-- Crop development: 5% of spring wheat was emerged as of Sunday, equal to both last year and five-year average.

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Nebraska Counties Economically Reliant on Farming
NeFB Newsletter

Nebraska is one of the nation’s top states in the number of counties economically reliant on farming. Sixty percent of Nebraska counties, 56 counties, have been defined by the USDA Economic Research Service (ERS) as high farming-concentration counties. Only North Dakota and South Dakota have higher percentages at 62%. The ERS defines high farming-concentration counties as those where at least 20% of the annual labor and proprietors’ earnings, or at least 17% of the annual average number of jobs, are derived from farming.

The economies of rural counties vary significantly. Some counties are more reliant on farming to power their local economies, others manufacturing, and still others recreation. This variety led the ERS to develop a set of county-level codes to provide insights into the economic sectors—farming, mining, manufacturing, federal and state government, or recreation—that drive county economies. The codes have been updated roughly every decade since the 1980s. The 2025 update was released earlier in April.

The codes provide intriguing insights into what makes Nebraska counties tick economically. In addition to the 56 farming-concentrated counties, 11 counties are high manufacturing-concentration counties. A handful of counties have high concentrations in both farming and manufacturing. Dawson and Platte Counties, generally considered agricultural powerhouses among Nebraska counties, are not high farming-concentrated counties, instead manufacturing is the most prevalent sector. Not surprisingly, Lancaster County, home to the State Capitol, is a high government-concentrated county. Surprisingly, Dawes, Johnson, Blaine, and Wayne Counties also fall into the same category. Three counties are categorized as high recreation-concentrated and 24 counties are non-specialized, meaning no one sector is prevalent in the county.

Clearly Nebraska is not “one size fits all” when it comes to economic sectors important to counties. Farming is the prevalent sector in most counties. But other sectors play an important economic role too. The diversity helps Nebraska’s economy be more resilient. Additional maps and information on the ERS codes county classifications can be found at: https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/county-typology-codes/descriptions-and-maps#highman



Applications Now Open for Nebraska LEAD Program’s 44th Cohort

Individuals passionate about agriculture, leadership and making a difference across Nebraska are encouraged to apply for the Nebraska LEAD (Leadership Education/Action Development) Program’s 44th cohort. Applications for this premier agricultural leadership development program are now being accepted through June 15, 2025.

For more than four decades, the Nebraska LEAD Program has identified and cultivated leaders for Nebraska’s agricultural industry and rural communities. Over the course of two years, Nebraska LEAD Fellows participate in a series of dynamic seminars, in-state and national study travel, and a life-changing international study experience — all designed to build critical leadership skills, broaden perspectives and strengthen participants’ ability to shape the future of agriculture and their communities.

“Nebraska agriculture needs visionary leaders who can not only navigate change but drive it — leaders who advocate fiercely for our industry and unite people toward a common purpose,” said Kurtis Harms, Nebraska LEAD Program Director. “The Nebraska LEAD Program offers an unparalleled opportunity for both personal growth and professional impact. Whether you farm, ranch, work in agribusiness or champion rural communities, if you’re passionate about leadership and ready to make a difference, Nebraska LEAD is your next step.”

Individuals involved in production agriculture, agribusiness or professions closely tied to the agricultural industry are encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates are emerging leaders who have demonstrated a commitment to leadership and service.

Application packets can be requested online at lead.unl.edu. Those interested can also nominate individuals who exhibit high leadership potential to receive application information.

The deadline to submit applications for Nebraska LEAD Group 44 is June 15, 2025.

For more information about the Nebraska LEAD Program, including eligibility requirements and program details, visit lead.unl.edu.



I-29 Moo University Presents a New Webinar Series Focusing on the Beef-On-Dairy Industry

For 15 years, the coordinating Extension Specialists of I-29 Moo University including Iowa State, University of Minnesota, UN-Lincoln and South Dakota State University have hosted the Dairy Beef Short Course program focusing on current issues, research and industry topics. In fact, the I-29 Moo University Dairy Beef Short Course continues to be the longest running and highly respected dairy beef event in the USA.

With the growing dairy numbers along the I-29 corridor, beef on dairy feeders are an important part of most dairy’s financial statements and as the beef cow herd has shrunk, those calves are filling feedlots across the country.

The 2025 I-29 Moo University Dairy Beef Short Course was held on Tuesday, March 25 as the first educational program of the Central Plains Dairy Expo. We had had over 140 attendees: 49 percent self -identified as cattle feeders or employees, 51 percent as industry and 8 percent as dairy producers. Of those who responded to the evaluation, six self-identified dairymen milked 375 cows; Thirty cattle feeders or employees handle 4,195 Holstein steers and 531,115 crossbreed steers.

I shared that over-view of the short course to help you understand the motivation to create the Beef-On-Dairy Dialogue webinar series. You see, it is hard to cover all the new and dynamic research and information in just a five-hour program. Plus, new information come out almost every week.

The inaugural webinar will be held from 12 noon to 1 pm on Wednesday, May 21 and will feature Sarah Erickson, TELUS Agriculture Data Advisor, discussing hoof health and lameness in feedlots feeding dairy crossbred steers. She will focus on the clinical signs, epidemiology, and treatment and prevention strategies for digital dermatitis, toe tip necrosis syndrome and foot rot in feedlot cattle.

Sarah Erickson is currently pursuing her Doctor of Philosophy (Biomedical Sciences) through Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas. Sarah received her Master of Science (2023) from the University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada and her Bachelor of Science (2018) from the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta. The area of focus for Sarah's MSc thesis was the epidemiology of hoof-related lameness in western Canadian feedlot cattle. Sarah became part of the Feedlot Health Management Services team in 2018. In 2020, Sarah became part of the TELUS Agriculture team and currently works on the Animal Health Support Team as a data advisor.

Looking down the road, on Tuesday, June 17 we will have Melanie Pimentel-Concepcion from Michigan State University discuss the economics of beef on dairy cross cattle in the feedlot.

Each month the webinar will host a nationally respected presenter covering a current topic. While there is no fee to attend, you must register at least one hour before the webinar at: https://go.iastate.edu/DBD

For more information, contact: in Iowa, Fred M. Hall, 712-737-4230; in Minnesota, Jim Salfer, 320-203-6093; or in South Dakota, Madison Kovarna, 605-688-4116.



Ahead of the Summer Driving Season, EPA Allows for Nationwide Year-Round E15

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today is issuing an emergency fuel waiver allowing the sale of E15 gasoline — gasoline blended with 15% ethanol — nationwide during the summer driving season. By doing so, EPA will keep E15 on the market giving consumers more options across the nation. This is consistent with President Trump’s Executive Order Declaring a National Energy Emergency, directing the EPA to consider issuing emergency waivers to allow for year-round E15 sales.

“President Trump’s commitment to farmers and the Renewable Fuels Standard has been a cornerstone to his leadership. In my confirmation hearing, I pledged to establish certainty when it came to the sale of E15 year-round. Promises made, promises kept,” said EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin.

“President Trump is committed to lowering energy prices by unleashing American energy production, and it all starts with U.S. farmers. This move to allow the summer sale of E-15 will provide immediate relief to consumers, provide more choices at the pump, and drive demand for corn grown, processed, and used right here in America. Our nation’s great corn growers are critical to helping the U.S. achieve energy independence which is essential to national security,” said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins. “I thank Administrator Zeldin for moving quickly to implement this emergency fuel waiver and his continued commitment to U.S. famers and the U.S. biofuels industry. At USDA we look forward to our continued partnership with EPA and are working diligently to increase our energy dominance in the U.S. and abroad by expanding market access for American biofuels on the world stage.”

This emergency action will provide families with relief at the pump by increasing fuel supply and ensuring a variety of gasoline fuel blends from which consumers can choose. More options at the pump helps protect consumers by reducing our reliance on imported fossil fuels, and bolstering U.S. energy independence, all while supporting American agriculture and manufacturing.

The Clean Air Act allows the EPA Administrator, in consultation with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), to temporarily waive certain fuel requirements to address shortages. As a result of ongoing issues with gasoline supplies, Administrator Zeldin determined that extreme and unusual fuel supply circumstances exist and has granted a temporary waiver to help ensure that an adequate supply of gasoline is available.

Currently, in about half of the country, E15 cannot be sold from terminals starting on May 1 and at retail stations starting on June 1. EPA is providing relief by extending the 1-psi Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) waiver for E15 gasoline. In response to requests from the Governors of Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wisconsin, EPA, in this same action, is also taking action to address the States’ concerns about E10 fuel standards in those states. Specifically, the agency has also waived provisions that would have otherwise made E10 gasoline sold in those states meet a more stringent standard than conventional gasoline in other parts of the country. EPA’s action for these states means E15 and E10 are sold across the region on equal footing, helping ensure adequate gasoline supplies to consumers across the country. The agency expects retail stations in those States to pass cost savings to consumers at the pump because of these waivers.

EPA’s emergency fuel waiver will go into effect on May 1 when terminal operators would otherwise no longer be able to sell E15 in the affected regions of the country and will initially remain in place through May 20, the maximum number of days allowed under the Clean Air Act. EPA will continue to monitor the supply with industry and federal partners. The agency expects to issue new waivers effectively extending the emergency fuel waiver until such time as the extreme and unusual fuel supply circumstances are no longer present.

Today’s actions advance Pillar 2 and Pillar 3 of Administrator Zeldin’s Powering the Great American Comeback Initiative: Restore American Energy Dominance, and Permitting Reform, Cooperative Federalism, and Cross-Agency Partnership. This initiative will guide EPA’s work over the first 100 days and beyond to achieve the agency’s mission of protecting human health and the environment while energizing the greatness of the American economy.  



EPA Issues Emergency Waiver for Summer 2025 E15 Sale

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued an emergency waiver that will allow the sale of E15 fuel nationwide during summer 2025. The waiver comes two months after the EPA confirmed the April 28, 2025, implementation date of a rule that allows the year-round sale of E15 in several Midwest states, including Nebraska. The emergency waivers are needed to allow the continued sale of E15 in other states this summer.

“We welcome today’s announced emergency waiver,” said Nebraska Ethanol Board (NEB) Executive Director Ben Rhodes. “This action ensures that consumers around the country will have uninterrupted access to cleaner, cheaper E15 during the upcoming summer. This waiver comes at a time of fuel supply chain disruptions worldwide, and we thank EPA for taking appropriate action.”

E15, a blend of gasoline and 15% ethanol, is safe and approved by the EPA to use in vehicles 2001 or newer and can save consumers about $0.10 per gallon compared to E10. E15 is available at around 140 fueling stations in Nebraska, and each year, Nebraska drivers save at least $300 million by choosing ethanol blends.

“The decision to issue emergency waivers aligns with historical precedent in ensuring summertime consumer access to E15,” Rhodes said. “Still, we remain committed to a permanent nationwide solution. While these waivers give peace of mind for summer 2025, the NEB will continue to work with our elected officials to ensure all states in the U.S. can sell E15 throughout the year, every year.”



Flood Applauds Trump Administration’s Expansion of E15 Availability

U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement following an announcement by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that E15 would be allowed nationwide for the summer driving season.

“I applaud President Trump and Administrator Zeldin for authorizing E15 across America for the summer driving season. E15 is clean, affordable, and American-made and we want everyone to have access to it. This is a great step towards E15 for all and I’ll continue to work with the administration towards year-round access so that we can continue to grow the marketplace for Nebraska biofuels here at home as well as around the world.”



Smith Thanks Trump Administration for Granting Emergency Ethanol Waiver

Representative Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced an emergency waiver to allow E15 sales nationwide through May 20 and took action to ensure uniform standards for E10 fuel sales.

"Drivers are looking for fuel price relief and higher ethanol blends are the commonsense solution. Ensuring the availability of this renewable, homegrown energy source empowers producers and retailers to meet demand during the summer travel months. I thank EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin and USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins for taking the necessary action to unleash domestic energy production. A permanent solution to provide long-term certainty is still needed, and I will continue to work toward enactment of my bill, the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, to eliminate unnecessary restrictions to E15."  



Fischer Statement on EPA Waiver to Allow for Nationwide Year-Round E15

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, released the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today issued an emergency waiver to allow for the sale of E15 gasoline during the summer driving season:

“I’m pleased the EPA has issued a summertime emergency fuel waiver to allow E15 to be sold year-round; however, a permanent, nationwide solution is still needed. I’m going to continue calling on Congress to pass my Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailers Choice Act to end years of patchwork regulations and unleash the power of year-round E15.”



Ricketts Statement on E15 Announcement

U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, complimented the announcement that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would issue an emergency fuel waiver to allow the sale of E15 this summer. Ricketts said the following:

“E15 saves consumers money at the pump, supports Nebraska agriculture, cleans our environment, and promotes energy independence. Expanding access to E15 use will help President Trump deliver on his promise to unleash American energy. The next step is a permanent fix. Let’s pass Senator Fischer’s Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act and make year-round nationwide E15 permanent.”

 

Governor Pillen Celebrates EPA E15 Waiver

Governor Jim Pillen, a champion for agriculture and Nebraska ethanol, released the following statement after the EPA announced that an emergency waiver has been granted to allow E15 sales at gas stations this summer.

 “The benefit of a nationwide market is massive for Nebraska ethanol – and every family in our country filling up their tank. This emergency waiver is a big boost for Nebraska’s producers and will allow consumers to benefit and save from the E15 advantage thanks to lower costs at the pump. The Trump Administration continues to go to bat for America’s farmers – and this is yet another example of a strong partnership that’s earning results for agriculture.”

 Earlier this month, Gov. Pillen joined a letter to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from a bipartisan group of governors asking Administrator Lee Zeldin to issue an emergency waiver to help drivers in the summer.

 Nebraska is one of several Midwest states approved to sell E15 year-round starting April 28. Establishing a nationwide waiver will help provide a stable supply of fuel and stem shortages and price hikes during the busy summer driving season.



Statement by Mark McHargue, President, Regarding EPA Granting Wavier to Allow Use of E15 this Summer

“We are pleased EPA Administrator Zeldin has again made the decision to grant a waiver for the sale of E15 nationwide this summer. Unfortunately, this action is only necessary due to an outdated federal law that Nebraska Senator Deb Fischer and Third District Congressman Adrian Smith have led the way in trying to fix through their Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, which would allow the permanent year-round sale of E15 nationwide. Now, with the full support of the Trump administration and Nebraska’s leaders in Congress, we must move a final legislative fix to President Trump’s desk, so this annual announcement is no longer needed.”



Corn Grower Groups Urging Ford to Stand with Rural America

The Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA), alongside more than 20 other state corn organizations and the National Corn Growers Association, is formally calling on Ford Motor Company to reinstate its production of Flex Fuel Vehicles (FFVs) and reengage in advancing renewable fuel technologies that support rural America.

In a joint letter addressed to Ford President and CEO Jim Farley, the coalition representing corn farmers expressed deep concern over the automaker’s move away from FFVs, particularly in its iconic F-Series truck lineup. The letter highlights the critical role American-grown ethanol plays in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening energy independence, and supporting local economies.   

“Farm families have historically chosen the F-150 not only for its towing and payload capabilities but also because it was a truck they could fuel with ethanol—a domestic, renewable fuel made from corn, grown and refined in the very communities where Ford trucks are most popular,” the letter states.

Ford has historically played a major role in advancing FFV technology. By 2014, nearly half of all light-duty vehicles produced by Ford, GM, and Chrysler were FFVs. However, in recent years, flex-fuel options have quietly disappeared from Ford’s production lines. Despite the F-150 remaining the top-selling vehicle in many of the nation’s corn-producing states, Ford no longer offers a flex-fuel model. This decision has raised serious concerns among corn growers, who say it removes a key fuel choice for rural drivers and undercuts demand for American-grown ethanol.

“Ford has a long-standing commitment to American farmers, and it’s time to renew that commitment by restarting the production of flex-fuel vehicles,” said Stu Swanson, ICGA President and farmer from Galt, Iowa. “By doing this, Ford will help strengthen rural economies and support sustainable fuel options for future generations. Iowa corn growers urge Ford to reinstate Flex Fuel Vehicle production and stand with farmers who have stood with them."

The corn organizations contend electric vehicles aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution, especially in rural areas with limited charging infrastructure. The letter notes there is no reason to eliminate a biofuel with proven economic and environmental benefits. The corn grower leaders say they will continue calling on Ford to work with members of Congress and the agriculture community to reinstate smart policies that benefit rural America and consumers.  

“Today’s farm families want to continue driving trucks made in America, powered by fuel made in America,” the letter concluded.



Nationwide E15 Summer Sales Waiver for 2025 Gives Consumers Additional Access Outside Midwest

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that due to fuel supply shortages, the agency will issue emergency waivers to permit the nationwide sale of E15 for the 2025 summer driving season. Even though Iowa and seven other Midwest states received approval to allow year-round sales of E15 on a permanent basis, a nationwide waiver provides additional E15 access to consumers outside of the eight Midwest states.

“IRFA thanks the Trump Administration for allowing states across the country the opportunity to sell E15 this summer,” said Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) Executive Director Monte Shaw. “While Iowa consumers and retailers already have E15 certainty, we still want consumers all across the nation to have the ability to save 15 to 20 cents per gallon at the pump. And during a time of tight fuel supplies, it would be ridiculous to tell retailers to bag their E15 pumps. Today is good news for Iowa farmers as well when you consider that 96.5 percent of ethanol produced at Iowa plants is utilized outside of the state.”

Led by Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds, in February 2024, Iowa and the seven other Midwest states received approval to sell E15 year-round effective this summer. One state, Ohio, requested and was granted a one-year delay in the effective date. During his first administration, President Trump directed his EPA to authorized year-round E15. However, a lawsuit led to the EPA rule being thrown out. For the past three summers, former President Biden’s EPA issued emergency waivers so that E15 use could continue during the busy summer months. For year-round E15 to become permanent across the country, Congress will need to update fuel regulations.

“While we are thankful to see increased access of E15 this summer, now is the time for Congress to push nationwide year-round E15 across the finish line,” added Shaw. “We are tired of waiting. Consumers and retailers are tired of waiting. E15 could provide a market for 5 to 7 billion gallons of additional ethanol demand at a time when American farmers and rural communities are hurting.”

Today’s 20-day emergency waiver overrides an outdated regulation that makes it difficult for retailers in much of the United States to sell E15 from June 1 through September 15. Retailers in areas with bad air quality have always been allowed to offer E15 year-round. While such waivers can be for a maximum of 20 days, due to ongoing fuel supply concerns, it is expected that EPA will renew the waivers throughout the summer.



Naig Applauds President Trump’s Nationwide Emergency Waiver for Summertime E15 Sales

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig issued the following statement today in response to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) decision to issue an emergency waiver authorizing nationwide year-round sales of E15 during the summer of 2025.

“Today’s E15 announcement by the Trump Administration is a win for consumers across the U.S. and farmers here in Iowa. I want to thank President Trump, Administrator Zeldin and Secretary Rollins for making E15 available to drivers during the busy summer travel season. Iowa drivers saved $38.5 million in 2024 by choosing E15 over E10, and now drivers across the country can also take advantage of similar cost-savings at the pump. This decision is a big step toward making our country more energy dominant, independent, and secure. Ultimately, we need Congress to provide certainty and predictability to the industry by passing legislation to make E15 permanently available year-round. Consumers would benefit from more affordable and cleaner burning fuel options, our farmers would enjoy stronger corn markets, and our nation-leading ethanol industry would expand, creating more jobs in rural Iowa.”



Secretary Rollins Applauds EPA’s Decision to Allow Summer Sale of E-15 Nationwide

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins issued the following statement in support of the Environmental Protection Agency’s emergency approval of the summer sale of E-15:

“President Trump is committed to lowering energy prices by unleashing American energy production, and it all starts with U.S. farmers. This move to allow the summer sale of E-15 will provide immediate relief to consumers, provide more choices at the pump, and drive demand for corn grown, processed, and used right here in America. Our nation’s great corn growers are critical to helping the U.S. achieve energy independence which is essential to national security.” said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins. “I thank Administrator Zeldin for moving quickly to implement this emergency fuel waiver and his continued commitment to U.S. famers and the U.S. biofuels industry. At USDA we look forward to our continued partnership with EPA and are working diligently to increase our energy dominance in the U.S. and abroad by expanding market access for American biofuels on the world stage.”



EPA Will Issue Summer Waivers for Accessing Higher Ethanol Blends

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced today that it will use its existing authority to prevent drivers from losing access to lower-cost and lower-emission E15, a higher ethanol blend often marketed as Unleaded 88.

The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) praised the decision.
 
“This waiver will help corn growers and rural communities while saving consumers at the pump during a busy driving season,” said Illinois farmer and NCGA President Kenneth Hartman Jr. “We are deeply appreciative of President Trump and the EPA for making year-round access to E15 a priority.”

Due to an outdated regulation, E15 cannot be sold at terminals beginning on May 1 and at retail stations starting on June 1. But the Clean Air Act gives EPA authority to temporarily waive these regulatory requirements to address pressing concerns, such as fuel shortages.

In response to concerns from Midwestern governors, EPA also took action to waive provisions that would have hindered the sale of E10 gasoline in Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wisconsin.

Higher blends of ethanol have been shown to lower the price of fuels.

President Trump has said he supports permanent year-round access to the biofuel, which would provide greater certainty and eliminate the need for regulatory action.    
 
NCGA is working with allies, including the petroleum industry, on federal legislation that would provide permanent, year-round access to E15.



Year-Round E15 Helps Drivers and Farmers

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on EPA’s emergency fuel waiver allowing the sale of E15 gasoline during the summer season.

“Farm Bureau appreciates EPA’s decision to keep ethanol blended gasoline available nationwide through the summer season. People who choose E15 fuel experience an average cost savings of 10-30 cents per gallon, which is much-needed relief for families suffering with high prices.

“Biofuels are an important tool in achieving the nation’s energy independence, while lowering costs for drivers and maintaining important markets for America’s farmers. AFBF has long advocated for year-round E15 sales, and we thank the president and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin for listening. We now encourage Congress to pass legislation to offer drivers lower cost options by making year-round E15 sales permanent.”



NFU Applauds Sale of Nationwide E15 Through the Summer Months

National Farmers Union (NFU) applauds the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) emergency fuel waiver allowing nationwide sale of E15 gasoline during the summer driving season. NFU has long advocated for year-round access to E15 and the expansion of higher ethanol blends, such as E30.

“Nationwide E15 is a win for American farmers and consumers. Expanding access to homegrown E15 and higher blends during the summer travel season strengthens America’s biofuels economy, creates new markets for our farmers, and keeps more energy dollars here in our rural communities,” said NFU President Rob Larew. “Administrator Zeldin’s announcement provides welcome reassurance to family farmers and ranchers facing increased uncertainty in the agricultural economy.”

NFU proudly endorsed the bipartisan Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, reintroduced in both the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. NFU urges Congress to act swiftly to pass this critical legislation, ensuring stronger, more reliable biofuels markets year-round.



RFA Thanks Trump Administration, EPA for Allowing Lower-Cost E15 This Summer

The emergency action taken today by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to allow uninterrupted sales of E15 this summer will help American drivers save money at the pump, strengthen the rural economy, and boost energy independence, according to the Renewable Fuels Association. RFA thanked both EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin and the White House for issuing the waivers, noting that today’s action delivers on the commitment President Trump made to ethanol producers and farmers on Day One of his second term.

“On his first day in office, President Trump declared a national energy emergency and identified year-round E15 as a solution for extending fuel supplies and reducing pump prices,” said RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “With geopolitical conflict roiling energy markets worldwide, we applaud President Trump and Administrator Zeldin for acting quickly to combat potential fuel shortages and help keep a lid on gas prices this summer. Allowing uninterrupted sales of E15 will help boost gasoline supplies, bolster the farm economy, and protect air quality. We also appreciate the efforts of USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins, several key governors, and the many ethanol supporters in Congress who worked together to promote continued access to E15.”

The lower-cost, American-made E15 blend is legally approved for use in more than 95 percent of vehicles on the road today, according to EPA. Drivers typically save 15-25 cents per gallon when filling up with E15; it currently sells at a 7.5 percent discount to regular unleaded.

Cooper noted that year-round E15 has been allowed in recent years. The EPA took similar emergency action in 2022, 2023 and 2024, and EPA allowed retailers to continue selling E15 in 2021 following an adverse court decision in a lawsuit brought by the American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers against President Trump.

While today’s EPA announcement is good news for American families, Cooper pointed out that a permanent legislative solution allowing year-round E15 is still needed. “For the economic and energy security benefits of E15 to be fully realized, the marketplace needs long-term certainty,” he said. “It’s time for Congress to pass legislation—like the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act—that would deliver permanent year-round access for E15 and finally break the cycle of ad hoc, stop-gap emergency waivers.”



ACE Grateful for 2025 Emergency E15 Waiver, Urges Permanent Legislative Solution

Monday, for the fourth consecutive year, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it is issuing an emergency fuel waiver to allow E15 to be sold during the summer driving season, following President Trump’s Executive Order Declaring a National Energy Emergency. The waiver also allows E10 to exceed the 1-pound RVP waiver, so consistent and uniform fuel specifications for both E10 and E15 are applied nationwide this summer. American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) CEO Brian Jennings issued the statement below following the announcement:
 
“We welcome the Trump administration’s decision to issue an emergency waiver for E15 this summer. Once again, this action will help alleviate fuel costs for drivers while reducing tailpipe emissions at a time when both economic and environmental concerns remain top of mind.
 
“ACE made year-round E15 access a top priority during our DC Fly-In last month, and we’re grateful to our members and Congressional champions who continue to advocate on this issue. Last year, EPA finalized a rule to allow permanent, year-round E15 sales in some Midwest states starting today — thanks to strong leadership from state governors and persistent grassroots pressure from our industry.
 
“Nevertheless, emergency waivers and a patchwork of state-specific rules are a temporary remedy, and we badly need a permanent fix to allow E15 year-round on a nationwide basis. It is long past time Congress takes action. We came incredibly close to getting the bipartisan Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act across the finish line at the end of 2024, and now Congress must finish the job and guarantee Americans year-round access to E15. Particularly during a time of tariff-related trade disruptions, uninterrupted market access to E15 is essential to supporting corn demand and improving farm income. Enacting legislation to allow E15 nationwide access will save families money at the pump, increase domestic fuel production, strengthen U.S. energy security, boost the farm economy, reduce tailpipe pollution, and bring long-overdue certainty to fuel markets for retailers and refiners alike.”
 
Today, more than 95% of all U.S. vehicles are approved to use E15 and over 4,000 retail sites offer E15 across 33 states. E15 typically costs 5 to 25 cents per gallon less than E10 and 40 cents to $1.00 less than non-ethanol gasoline. With a higher-octane rating and lower emissions profile, E15 gives consumers the ability to choose a higher quality, cleaner-burning fuel at a better price.



Growth Energy Celebrates EPA Waiver for Summer Sales of E15

Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, applauded the Trump administration’s decision to grant a summer waiver allowing uninterrupted sales of lower-cost E15, a fuel blend made with 15% ethanol that can be used in 96% of cars on the road today. Action on a nationwide waiver fulfills a key element of President Trump’s executive order directing the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to “consider issuing emergency fuel waivers to allow the year-round sale of E15 gasoline to meet any projected temporary shortfalls in the supply of gasoline across the Nation.”

“We’re grateful to President Trump and EPA Administrator Zeldin for moving quickly to lift a needless barrier standing between the American people and lower-cost E15,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “This outcome is also thanks to USDA Secretary Rollins’ support for year-round E15 and homegrown fuels, and the governors, senators, and representatives in both parties whose advocacy for American drivers and farmers helped make this happen.”

“EPA’s decision is a step toward greater American energy dominance. This will put more American fuel in the marketplace, allow Americans to spend less of their hard-earned money at the pump this summer, give fuel retailers the clarity and certainty they need, and protect a critical market for American farmers,” Skor continued. “With a temporary waiver in place, our bipartisan champions in Congress and the White House can focus on passing permanent legislation that provides unrestricted access to E15 – all months, all states, all stations, and all fuel dispensers.”



EPA and Army to Host Listening Sessions to Gather Input on WOTUS from Key Stakeholder Groups

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Department of the Army (Army) will host listening sessions to gather input on the definition of Waters of the United States (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act.  

On March 12, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced the agencies’ intent to revise the definition of WOTUS to follow the clear direction of the Supreme Court in Sackett v. EPA while eliminating red tape, cutting compliance costs, and reducing the cost of living. To achieve this vision, the agencies will develop a proposed rule to revise the 2023 definition of WOTUS.

The listening sessions are intended to help EPA and Army understand real-world perspectives and experiences with WOTUS implementation to inform the agencies’ upcoming proposed rule. In addition to the sessions listed below, EPA will hold listening sessions for local governments, Tribes, and the general public.   



Trump Administration Announces that the U.S. Government Has Dropped Criminal Charges Against Small Farmer/Rancher Maude Family

Monday, the Trump Administration announced bold action to put farmers and ranchers first by dropping criminal charges against Charles and Heather Maude, a South Dakota family who has a small cattle and hog operation. This family has endured a senseless politically motivated prosecution waged by the Biden Administration over 50 acres of federal land. Government resources for prosecution should be focused on true criminals, not a family farm trying to make ends meet.

“The Maudes are not criminals. They have worked their land since the early 1900’s and something that should have been a minor civil land dispute that was over and done with quickly turned into an overzealous criminal prosecution on a hardworking family that was close to losing their home, children, and livelihood. Not in this America, not under President Trump,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins. “A politically motivated witch hunt was launched against the Maude family over a fence line and planting dispute with a small family farm which has cultivated land near federal grasslands since the early 1900’s. Dropping these charges against the Maude family is not only just, it affirms the America First mandate that was sent to Washington when President Trump was overwhelmingly elected and sworn into office just 100 days ago. This case, and the many others that are currently under review, shows that this Administration is fully committed to ending government regulation by prosecution. President Trump will never stop fighting for farmers and ranchers like the Maude family.”

“The prior administration’s misguided agenda must be reversed in order to make America safe again. This Department of Justice will spend our resources and efforts on prosecuting criminals, getting drugs off the streets, and identifying and dismantling the weaponization,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi.

The Maude family will visit Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, April 30th for an in-person press conference where further updates on this case and actions being taken by the Trump Administration to limit government regulation by prosecution will be shared.

Background: The Maudes were alerted by the United States Forest Service that fencing on their property blocked access to the Buffalo Gap National Grasslands and in good faith agreed to a survey of the property lines. After the survey was completed, the Maudes lives were turned upside down by the Biden Administration where a simple civil dispute over 50 acres of federal land turned into a costly, invasive, and unnecessary criminal prosecution.



NCBA and PLC Help End Targeted Persecution of Maude Family

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) and the Public Lands Council (PLC) commended U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins for ending the overzealous criminal prosecution of family ranchers Charles and Heather Maude.

Secretary Rollins’ announcement today is welcome news both for the Maude family who have endured arduous court appearances, legal fees, and the threat of prison time, as well as for family ranchers across the West who feared heavy-handed legal pressure from the last administration. This announcement is a fitting culmination to the last year of work NCBA and PLC have done in Washington to find a reasonable end to this unnecessary situation. The support of grassroots cattle industry leaders from around the country was also crucial to achieving this victory.

“No family farmer or rancher should have to go through what the Maude family did,” said NCBA President Buck Wehrbein, a Nebraska cattleman. “The targeted prosecution of the Maude family was way out of line for the U.S. Forest Service, and this was a clear example of government overreach that had direct, catastrophic impacts for a hardworking fifth-generation ranching family.”

Under the Biden Administration, Charles and Heather Maude were indicted on federal charges of “theft of federal property,” as the result of a disputed fence line with the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and a small parcel in the family’s pasture that had been managed the same way since the early 1900s. Despite the Maudes engaging in good faith with USFS to address the boundary dispute, USFS diverted from normal protocol. Armed federal agents served the Maudes with federal summons where Charles and Heather were charged separately, requiring them to each retain their own attorney and subjecting each to penalties of up to 10 years in federal prison and fines up to $250,000.

“Charles and Heather Maude are public lands ranchers who for decades held a federal grazing permit and were permittees in good standing,” said PLC President and Colorado rancher Tim Canterbury, a federal grazing permittee. “As permittees, we are required to work collaboratively with the government, but when federal agencies view ranchers as the enemy, it threatens the trust that every single rancher has in their federal partners. The public outcry we saw on behalf of the Maudes goes to show that public lands ranchers everywhere are breathing a sigh of relief that the USDA under Secretary Rollins is no longer trying to slap handcuffs on hardworking farmers and ranchers.”

NCBA, PLC, and our state affiliates have been involved in supporting the Maudes since they first faced legal charges. Last August, NCBA and PLC leaders brought media attention to their case and urged then-Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack and then-Chief of the Forest Service Randy Moore to work with the Department of Justice to change course. Since that time, NCBA and PLC staff have participated in numerous meetings with Forest Service and USDA leadership to reel in rogue federal agents and a siloed, activist Department of Justice. After the election in November, NCBA and PLC immediately brought the Maude’s case to the attention of the Trump Administration, urged the White House to intervene, and have demanded accountability from USFS law enforcement leaders.
 
“This case was an unfortunate example of the imbalance of power between family ranchers and a formidable federal government. Put simply, the Maude family was expected to bear the burden of an inefficient and unfair Forest Service process, and their story had a chilling effect on ranchers’ trust in federal land management agencies they interact with daily,” said Executive Director of PLC and NCBA Natural Resources Kaitlynn Glover. “Both the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the Public Lands Council are pleased that our months-long campaign to find a good solution for Charles, Heather, and their kids has finally become a reality.”



Prices Continue to Pop
David Anderson, Department of Agricultural Economics, Texas A&M University

Pop as in a champagne cork not a balloon! There have certainly been some fluctuations in prices, especially in the futures market, over the last couple of weeks due to tariff announcements and recession fears, but cash fed cattle prices have rebounded quickly.

Five-market weighted average (price weighted across all grades) fed steer live prices averaged $205.19 per cwt on April 8th, bringing the average price for that week down to $207.70. Price quickly rebounded to over $212 per cwt. Fed cattle prices had averaged over $211 per cwt for the three weeks prior to the tariff announcements. The fluctuations in the fed cattle market highlight the volatility in the market compared to some underlying fundamental conditions.

Calf and feeder cattle markets experienced similar price declines during that week. Using Oklahoma auctions as an example, 500-600-pound steers declined $11 per cwt to $369.71 for the week of April 11th. They rebounded to $376 per cwt for the ensuing week. Feeder steers weight 700-800 pounds dropped $10 to $289 before bouncing back to over $300 per cwt.

The cutout has shown some ups and downs over the last few weeks that appear to be more reflective of the beginning of grilling season purchasing. The Prime-Choice cutout premium declined to $25 per cwt in mid-April from over $60 per cwt in January. This premium was $28 per cwt last year at this time.

Cattle and beef prices remain higher than last year, even with some volatility, while beef production remains relatively close to last year. For the year through April 26, beef production is equal to last year. But over the last month production is down 1.3 percent compared to last year. Using the daily slaughter data fed steer and heifer slaughter is down 2.8 percent in April compared to last April. Heavier weights are continuing to boost beef production.

The risk of tariffs and retaliation along with recession worries remain and will likely lead to more price volatility in coming weeks. But fundamental factors, like fewer cattle, will continue to support high prices. High cutout values reflect a little less beef production in recent weeks but also continued positive consumer demand.