Friday May 30 Ag News

 Rep. Flood Leads Bipartisan, Bicameral Letter Supporting Ag Research

Recently, U.S. Congressman Flood led a bipartisan, bicameral letter to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, emphasizing the importance of agricultural research at land-grant universities across the country. He was joined by three Senators and 26 Representatives.

“Agriculture research is one of my top priorities. It’s critical that we continue to invest in the next generation of leaders to continue feeding and fueling a growing world. Agriculture research not only bolsters our nation’s farmers and ranchers, but also provides for food and national security,” said Congressman Flood.

“Studies have repeatedly demonstrated that public investment in agricultural research has resulted in annual rates of return between 20 and 50 percent,” the letter reads. “These are real economic benefits felt on the farm and across communities large and small. Research, education, and Extension activities through NIFA’s Capacity programs… are crucial to the long-term success of American farmers, ranchers, and foresters.”

Congressman Flood is a member of the Agriculture Research Caucus and serves as Chairman of the Housing and Insurance Subcommittee.



Nebraska Soybean Board Engages Fire Departments on Soy-Based Firefighting Foam at Nebraska State Fire School

The Nebraska Soybean Board (NSB) participated in the Nebraska State Fire School expo in Grand Island earlier this month, collaborating with Cross Plains Solutions to inform fire departments about SoyFoam™ TF 1122, a soy-based firefighting foam. NSB distributed 15 sample pails at the expo to fire departments statewide and plans to provide additional samples to more departments later this year.

SoyFoam™ TF 1122 is designed to suppress fires effectively while prioritizing firefighter safety. It is 100% free of intentionally added per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and fluorinated chemicals, which are commonly found in traditional firefighting foams. Made from soy meal and flour, byproducts of the soybean crush process, the foam is certified as 84% biobased by the U.S. Department of Agriculture BioPreferred® program and is also certified ready biodegradable.

“With support from NSB, we had the chance to engage firefighters across Nebraska and explain how soybeans can help put out fires while keeping first responders and our communities safe,” said Dave Garlie, chief technology officer for Cross Plains Solutions. “We are working to replace firefighting foams that contain PFAS, known as ‘forever chemicals’ because they do not biodegrade and accumulate in the environment, causing health issues like low birth weights, liver disease and cancer. First responders face a 72% higher risk of cancer than the general population due to chemicals like PFAS in their work environment.”

The foam operates as a wetting and smothering agent, capable of extinguishing both Class A (ordinary combustibles) and Class B (flammable liquids) fires. It works with existing firefighting equipment and requires no changes to standard procedures or additional training. The foam has demonstrated vapor suppression on various fuels and meets the National Fire Protection Association’s standard for wetting agents (NFPA 18). SoyFoam is also the only GreenScreen Certified GOLD™ firefighting foam in the world.

“It’s really great to see the results of the research behind this soy-based firefighting foam,” said Greg Greving, a United Soybean Board farmer-leader from Chapman, Nebraska. “Not only is it safe and environmentally friendly, but it is also renewable and sustainable. It doesn’t get any better than that. It was encouraging to see so much interest in the foam, especially knowing that 90 percent of Nebraska’s fire departments are volunteer-based and often include farmers. It was a powerful way to show how soybean checkoff dollars are being invested back into rural communities.”

For more information about SoyFoam™ TF 1122, visit crossplainssolutions.com/soyfoam-info.



SMALL GRAIN FORAGE HARVEST
- Ben Beckman, NE Extension Educator

As we work our way through spring, many small grains are maturing fast and nearing harvest windows. Are you ready to make the most out of these forage options?

Producers seeking hay should consider the animal being fed and feeding method before harvesting.  For young growing cattle, small grain hay should be cut in the boot stage or as soon as possible following heading to ensure higher protein and energy content. Mature cow and feedlot managers may consider delaying their forage harvest until the hard dough development stage to increase forage quantity; since these cattle can utilize lower quality forage than younger beef animals. Small grains with awns like rye, triticale, and wheat can be a concern at later maturities.  Grinding the hay, feeding in ration with additional moisture, or using an awnless (beardless) variety can reduce this risk.

No matter how you harvest, delaying can mean higher productivity. Nebraska studies have shown an 8 ton as harvested feed per acre increase between harvest at boot stage and soft dough on irrigated fields. The trade-off for delaying forage harvest was an 8% drop in crude protein content.

Another concern for silage harvesters is proper moisture when packing.  A statewide study looking at 17 Nebraska producers found the biggest loss of small grain silage quality was packing too wet despite almost all producers having wilted the crop before packing. Silage packed too wet had almost 3 times the energy loss that those packed at proper moisture content Shoot for 70-72% moisture for proper packing. Study survey data showed producers who harvested at boot, heading, or pollination stage and wilted for 16 to 24 hours appeared more likely to achieve target moisture levels.  




Free Financial, Legal Consultations for Nebraska Producers in June

Though the farm finance and ag law clinics are offered monthly at sites across Nebraska, remote sessions are another option — call the number below to arrange a one-on-one meeting via phone or virtual platform.

Free legal and financial clinics are being offered for farmers and ranchers across the state in June. The clinics are one-on-one in-person meetings with an agricultural law attorney and an agricultural financial counselor. These are not group sessions, and they are confidential.

The attorney and financial advisor specialize in legal and financial issues related to farming and ranching, including financial and business planning, transition planning, farm loan programs, debtor/creditor law, debt structure and cash flow, agricultural disaster programs, and other relevant matters. Here is an opportunity to obtain an independent, outside perspective on issues that may be affecting your farm or ranch.

Clinic Dates
    Wednesday, June 4 — Norfolk
    Wednesday, June 4 — Fairbury
    Friday, June 27 — Norfolk

To sign up for a free clinic or to get more information, call the Nebraska Farm Hotline at 1-800-464-0258.

Funding for this work is provided by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture and Legal Aid of Nebraska.



Forage Webinar Series Continues June 18

The I-29 Moo University and the Northern Plains Forage Association Forage Webinar Series continues on June 18 from 7 to 8:30 pm with a variety of forage topics including a spring forage outlook, a forage market outlook and a discussion on Safety when using round bales.

Presenters include.
Amber Friedrichsen editor of Hay & Forage Grower will give an overview of alfalfa growing conditions, harvest conditions, and forage test results so far this year.

Friedrichsen grew up on a farm in eastern Iowa and graduated from Iowa State University in 2023 with degrees in agricultural communications and agronomy. While in college, Friedrichsen served as the editorial intern for Hay & Forage Grower for two summers and was an associate editor before assuming her current position.

Fred Hall, Northwest Iowa Extension dairy specialist will share his insights on where the hay market is headed including exports, prices, profit margins, hay stocks and predicted usage.

Phil Kaatz is a Michigan State University Extension Forage and Field Crops educator and his presentation will be centered on farm safety when working with round balers. Safety is always appropriate for anyone that uses or is around a baler. He will tie the cost of a used baler replacement into the societal cost of a farm accident.

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/JUNE182025FORAGE.

 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.



Iowa Leaders Celebrate New B99 High-Blend Biodiesel Pump for Fleets

Thursday, Pilot Travel Centers LLC, PepsiCo, and Optimus Technologies held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the installation of a new B99 biodiesel pump at Pilot's Urbandale travel center. Optimus Technologies has developed a fuel system to run on B99 versus standard #2 diesel to help large transportation companies, such as PepsiCo, meet their low-carbon goals. PepsiCo has converted roughly 20 semi-trucks to the new engine technology from Optimus and plans to use the Urbandale Pilot Truck location to refuel the fleet. B99 is a blend of 99 percent biodiesel and 1 percent diesel.

“The launch of this B99 pump is a major step forward in making cleaner fuels a reality for commercial fleets,” said Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) Marketing Director Lisa Coffelt. “This project supports Iowa's farmers, strengthens our biofuels industry, and helps companies take meaningful steps toward their sustainability goals.”

The Iowa Soybean Association and the Iowa Biodiesel Board also contributed to the project. This location will be the first above-ground B99 installation in the United States. This effort showcases the practical, scalable adoption of high-blend biodiesel in real-world fleet operations. With Iowa leading the way as the first state to implement an incentive for B30 and higher blends, the launch of this pump demonstrates bold progress in renewable fuels and a model for other states to follow.



Secretary Naig Announces 33 Choose Iowa Food Purchasing Grants for Schools

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig today announced 33 schools or school districts have received grants to participate in the Choose Iowa Food Purchasing Program for Schools. The one-year pilot program connects Iowa schools with Choose Iowa members to encourage school food service programs to purchase and serve more ingredients and products sourced from local farmers and small businesses.

The pilot program was authorized during the 2024 legislative session and is an initiative of Choose Iowa, the state’s branding and marketing program that identifies and promotes Iowa grown, made, and raised food, beverages and ag products.

“This Choose Iowa pilot program is yet another way we’re connecting Iowa farmers and small businesses with schools to provide fresh, local, and nutritious food to our students. This one-year pilot program saw strong demand from interested schools that far exceeded the available program budget,” said Secretary Naig. “As Choose Iowa continues to expand, we will work to open even more opportunities to connect local producers and school food programs. Choose Iowa’s membership is growing quickly and is already demonstrating how it can be a powerful tool for strengthening and growing our rural communities.”

The school pilot program has a total budget of $70,000, and each school was eligible to apply for up to $1,000 per school building. Both public and private schools were encouraged to apply. Selected schools are required to provide a minimum one-to-one (1:1) financial match. For example, a school receiving $1,000 must provide at least $1,000 from other sources for a total of $2,000 spent on local foods through the pilot program. Choose Iowa received applications from 61 schools or school districts totaling $158,249, an overall request far exceeding available funding.

The following schools are a sample of those received grants:
Harrison: Missouri Valley Community School District
Ida: OABCIG Community School District
Plymouth: Hinton Community School District
Pottawattamie: Council Bluffs Community School District
Woodbury: Westwood Community School District

Eligible products that can be purchased include meat and poultry, dairy products (other than milk), eggs, honey and produce. Funding for milk is available through a different federal program. To be eligible for funding through the Choose Iowa Food Purchasing Pilot Program, schools must purchase food from a Choose Iowa member. If selected schools wish to purchase from specific Iowa farmers, they should encourage those farmers or businesses to apply to become a Choose Iowa member. Food hubs that are Choose Iowa members are also eligible for food purchases within the program. Products purchased through food hubs must come from Iowa producers.

Additional details on the school pilot program can be found on the Choose Iowa website. The school program accompanies the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s Choose Iowa’s Food Purchasing Pilot Program for Food Banks, which launched last summer to connect food banks with Choose Iowa members to help alleviate hunger within our communities.



Urea Leads Major Fertilizer Prices Higher

Average retail prices for three fertilizers again led prices for seven of the major fertilizers higher for the third week of May, according to sellers surveyed by DTN. Average retail prices for seven of the eight major fertilizers were higher compared to last month. Prices for three of those were significantly higher, which DTN designates as anything 5% or more.

Leading the way higher again for prices was urea. The nitrogen fertilizer was up 13% from last month with an average price of $652 per ton. Both UAN28 and UAN32 were more expensive compared to last month, with UAN28 by 9%, while UAN32 was by 10%. UAN28 had an average price of $414/ton while UAN32 is $494/ton.

Four fertilizers had slightly higher prices. DAP had an average price of $798/ton, MAP $827/ton, potash $470/ton and 10-34-0 $666/ton.

One fertilizer was slightly lower compared to the prior month. Anhydrous had an average price of $779/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was $0.71/lb.N, anhydrous $0.48/lb.N, UAN28 $0.74/lb.N and UAN32 $0.77/lb.N.

Five fertilizers are now higher in price compared to one year earlier: DAP by 2%, 10-34-0 by 4%, UAN28 by 15% and urea and UAN32 by 18%. The remaining three fertilizers are lower. MAP and anhydrous are both 1% less expensive while potash is 8% lower compared to last year.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 5/23/2025

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending May 23, ethanol production expanded 1.9% to an 8-week high of 1.06 million b/d, equivalent to 44.35 million gallons daily. Output was 1.1% lower than the same week last year but 0.8% above the three-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate increased 0.3% to 1.03 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 15.77 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks dipped 2.7% to 24.3 million barrels, the lowest weekly volume this year. Yet, stocks were 4.6% more than the same week last year and 6.3% above the three-year average. Inventories thinned across all regions except the Midwest (PADD 2).

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, accelerated by 9.3% to a 33-week high of 9.45 million b/d (145.30 bg annualized). Demand was 3.3% more than a year ago and 4.2% above the three-year average.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol climbed 2.2% to 939,000 b/d, equivalent to 14.43 bg annualized. Net inputs were 0.2% more than year-ago levels and 1.1% above the three-year average.

Ethanol exports decreased 29.8% to an estimated 66,000 b/d (2.8 million gallons/day). It has been more than a year since EIA indicated ethanol was imported.



USDA to Provide $1 Billion to Livestock Producers Impacted by Drought or Wildfire in 2023 and 2024

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins today announced the release of Congressionally mandated Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP) payments to cover grazing losses due to eligible drought or wildfire events in 2023 and/or 2024. Secretary Rollins committed on May 7 to release these emergency payments by May 30, and today she is delivering on that commitment ahead of schedule.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) is leveraging existing Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) data to streamline payment calculations and expedite relief. Emergency relief payments are automatically issued for producers who have an approved LFP application on file for 2023 and/or 2024, and do not have to contact USDA to receive payments.

“The Department of Agriculture is stepping up to support livestock producers by expediting disaster payments when drought and wildfires strike. Under President Trump’s leadership, USDA has the backs of ranchers, and that’s why we are delivering much-needed emergency relief ahead of schedule,” said Secretary Rollins.

The American Relief Act, 2025, provided funds for emergency relief payments. This program is the first of two programs authorized to assist with eligible losses suffered by livestock producers. FSA will announce additional ELRP assistance for other losses authorized by the Act, including flooding, later this summer. FSA expects demand for this first program to be great so the ELRP payments will be factored at 35%. If additional funds remain, FSA may issue a second payment.

Supplemental Disaster Assistance Timeline
USDA is fully committed to expediting remaining disaster assistance provided by the American Relief Act, 2025. On May 7, we launched our 2023/2024 Supplemental Disaster Assistance public landing page where the status of USDA disaster assistance and block grant rollout timeline can be tracked. The page is updated regularly and accessible through fsa.usda.gov.

The Act also authorized $10 billion in economic loss assistance to producers of covered commodities based on 2024 planted and prevented planted acres. To date, USDA has delivered more than $7.7 billion to producers through the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP). The ECAP deadline is Aug. 15, 2025. Contact your local FSA county office for information.



Cattlemen Thank USDA for Prioritizing Disaster Recovery

Thursday, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) thanked Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins following an announcement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that the agency would quickly be sending Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP) payments to cattle producers who suffered losses from drought and wildfire.

“Cattlemen and cattlewomen across the country have faced heartbreaking losses from drought and wildfires. We are so grateful that Secretary Rollins understands the devastation caused by these natural disasters and is working to make cattle producers whole again,” said NCBA President Buck Wehrbein, a Nebraska cattleman. “We appreciate USDA standing with farmers and ranchers, and being invested in their success.”
 
The ELRP payments will be delivered to impacted cattle producers without requiring a separate application. Instead, data already on file with USDA will be used to identify which producers are eligible for payments. This removes bureaucratic red tape and ensures payments are issued quickly. Questions regarding eligibility should be directed to your local Farm Service Agency office.



New pork campaign and market conditions poised to revive domestic demand

The U.S. pork industry is charting a new course to engage with American consumers and boost domestic demand as trade policy and global market dynamics threaten the pace of export sales. Pork producers have relied heavily on global demand in recent years. Nearly one-quarter of all U.S. pork was sold to international buyers in 2024. Continued success in the export market hangs in the balance as China trims imports of U.S. goods and trade conflicts curb global sales among other key buyers.

While global pork consumption has edged upward, U.S. per capita consumption has been flat for more than 50 years at 50 lbs. on average, according to the USDA. That trails annual beef and chicken consumption, which exceeds 60 lbs. and 100 lbs., respectively. The pork industry is aiming to gain ground with a new consumer marketing program, “Taste What Pork Can Do.” Focusing on flavor and featuring a wide variety of recipes and convenient cooking techniques, the campaign encourages U.S. consumers to reimagine the possibilities of pork for at-home meals.

According to a new report from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange, the campaign represents the beginning of what could be a “new pork” on U.S. consumers’ plates. The next opportunity could be reevaluating hog genetics in an effort to match the campaign’s emphasis on flavor. Taste continues to be one of the top drivers influencing consumer meat purchases, as evidenced by sales of the most popular pork product, bacon.

“If the U.S. consumer is to truly reimagine pork, some fairly significant changes may be required over time,” said Brian Earnest, lead animal protein economist with CoBank. “Recalibrating the genetic hog makeup and showcasing different cuts at retail and through food service could be in order. Utilizing pork in a new way could help find the pork equivalent of a beef T-bone or rib-eye for a richly flavored, premium-priced offering.”

The industry’s consolidation era twenty years ago sent the U.S. hog sector down a path of value, efficiency and appeasing comparisons to “other categories” of meat. The lean hog formulation adopted by the broad bulk of U.S. producers has largely influenced the pork U.S. consumers see today. However, consumers’ views regarding fat content have evolved and health concerns about fat have subsided. A refreshed approach to hog genetics that focuses on fat content, flavor and consumer preferences over production efficiencies may be necessary to meaningfully grow domestic demand.

Bacon has been the most popular pork item in the U.S. for the last 10 years, with strong demand supporting higher pricing. Sausage-type items and pizza toppings like pepperoni have also gained strong consumer demand. Values for pork trim used in sausage making have climbed accordingly. Historically, averaging less than $40 per cwt., pork trim for sausage surged to more than $80 per cwt. for the first time in 2022.

Unlike chicken breasts and beef burgers, U.S. consumers frequently find it difficult to cook “the perfect pork chop.” While pork loins and hams offer exceptional value, they lack the benefit of convenience compared to smaller pork cuts. New pork product variations that offer both convenience and enhanced flavor may be key to helping consumers reimagine pork.

Despite the challenges associated with broadening pork’s appeal with domestic consumers, Earnest said the industry is in a strong position. “With supplies ample and wallets tight, pork has never been in a better position to grow its market share with U.S. consumers. Pork is on a new path and it’s an exciting time for the industry.”

Thursday May 29 Ag News

 Nebraska Cattlemen Applauds Passage of Bill Protecting Feed Trucks

Nebraska Cattlemen applauds the unanimous passage of LB 490 on Final Reading. This commonsense legislation aims to protect feed trucks and agriculture machinery and equipment from being classified as a motor vehicle.

Specifically, Senator Dan McKeon’s LB 490 would clarify current statues and allow producers to receive titles for their equipment without a obtaining a wrongful motor vehicle classification and requiring producers to unnecessarily pay for licensing and registration. LB 490 also aims to increase efficiency for feed truck dealers and consumers alike, by eliminating the need to continually keep previous bills of sale on a feed truck and by streamlining the buying process.

Executive Vice President Laura Field stated, “Cattle outnumber people more than three to one in Nebraska and it’s no secret that feed trucks are one of the most important pieces of equipment beef cattle producers need to keep their animals healthy. We thank Senator McKeon for his hard work to prevent feed trucks from being wrongfully classified as motor vehicles and we look forward to seeing this bill move across the finish line. Today’s unanimous passage of LB 490 underscores the Legislature’s commitment to advancing the interests of Nebraska’s cattle industry. We also thank the stakeholders who contributed to the development of this important legislation.”

LB 490 will head to Governor Jim Pillen’s desk for further consideration.



CAP Webinar: 2025 Livestock Custom Rates & Budgeting Tools
Jun 5, 2025 12:00 PM
With Glennis McClure, Extension Educator and Farm & Ranch Management Analyst, UNL Center for Agricultural Profitability.

The 2025 Livestock-Related Custom Rates Report is now available—only the second edition of this important resource, following its debut in 2023. This report provides valuable insights to help producers and custom service providers with current custom rate information.

During the June 5, 2025, the webinar hosted by the Center for Agricultural Profitability, Extension Educator Glennis McClure will walk through the survey’s design, share key findings, and explain how the report can be used to set and negotiate fair custom rates.

We’ll also introduce new features of the free Agricultural Budget Calculator (ABC) program, now updated with livestock budgets for cow-calf, backgrounding, finishing cattle, and related operations. These tools help evaluate costs, returns, and support better decision-making.

Find the livestock-related custom rates report at https://cap.unl.edu/customrates.

Find information about the Agricultural Budget Calculator program at https://cap.unl.edu/abc.

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, you can also register using this same link at https://cap.unl.edu/webinars.



NE Corn Board to Meet

The Nebraska Corn Board will hold its next meeting on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at the Broken Bow Golf Club (2280 Memorial Dr.) in Broken Bow, Neb.

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 renee.tichota@nebraska.gov or by calling 402-471-2676.

The Nebraska Corn Board is funded through a producer checkoff investment of 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.



365 Ag Groups Call on Congress to Enact Agricultural Labeling Uniformity Act

365 agricultural and related groups have sent a letter calling on Congress to enact the Agricultural Labeling Uniformity Act, a bipartisan bill the groups say is needed to protect access for farmers and the public to safe, well-regulated pesticides. The groups—which represent millions of pesticide users from farmers to scientists, and mosquito control to public land managers—say the legislation would reaffirm and clarify long-standing provisions in federal pesticide law regarding labeling requirements.

Since the 1970s, the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act has contained provisions that prevent states from imposing labeling requirements in addition to or different from federal requirements. Yet, the groups warned in the letter that recent state labeling requirements, “directly and unjustifiably contradict EPA’s scientific findings on pesticide safety. These actions risk creating an unworkable, inconsistent patchwork of state pesticide labels that can quickly disrupt commerce and access to these much-needed tools.” The groups are concerned that if contradictory labels are required on the same package, it could lead to products being pulled from the market.

Caleb Ragland, president of the American Soybean Association and a soybean farmer from Kentucky, said, “Not only does FIFRA prohibit states from requiring labels that conflict with federal findings, but also labels are not allowed to be ‘false or misleading.’ If a state requires a product to be labeled in contradiction to scientific findings from federal regulators, it places manufacturers in a no-win situation; either disregard a state labeling requirement or put a false and misleading label on a product, contradicting EPA findings and violating federal law. This situation is not sustainable.”

Supporting the enactment of the Agriculture Labeling Uniformity Act, which was introduced last Congress by Representatives Dusty Johnson (R-SD) and Jim Costa (D-CA), is only the most recent effort farm groups have pursued to bring clarity to pesticide labeling. Earlier this month, 12 national and state agricultural groups filed an amicus brief urging the Supreme Court to hear a case on whether states could require glyphosate to carry a cancer warning label despite repeated findings from EPA and other regulators around the globe that it is not a carcinogen. In March, nearly 300 groups supported a petition from several state attorneys general to conduct clarifying rulemaking at EPA on pesticide labels. Many groups also have been supporting state legislative efforts that reaffirm federal labeling law, including recent state laws passed in Georgia and North Dakota.

Ragland added, “We’re really taking an ‘all of the above’ approach to bring certainty to this issue. Unless there is clarity, we’re worried manufacturers could exit the market and leave farmers without much-needed tools needed to protect crops and provide affordable food for consumers.”



Make Agriculture Great Again Trade Win: Secretary Rollins Secures Greater Market Access with Costa Rica for U.S. Dairy Industry

Under U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins’ leadership, American dairy producers will have greater market access as Costa Rica has approved the first U.S. dairy facility to be registered under their new streamlined approval process. The Trump Administration continues to break down non-tariff barriers, and this latest action is the first of many wins ahead for American dairy producers.

“Under President Trump’s leadership, USDA is putting Farmers First. Securing greater market access for American dairy farmers is a much-needed win for the U.S. dairy industry and will give our producers better increased access to a $130 million market in Costa Rica. I look forward to continuing to Make Agriculture Great Again by breaking down trade barriers and opening new markets for our farmers and ranchers around the globe,” said Secretary Rollins.

On May 22, Costa Rica’s National Animal Health Service (SENASA) officially approved the first American dairy cooperative for export to Costa Rica, making it the first U.S. dairy facility to be registered under the new streamlined approval process that eases market access for U.S. dairy products. This first registration paves the way for future U.S. dairy exports to Costa Rica, a $60 million market in 2024, that could have been lost if the Trump Administration was not able to navigate their new process.

This Make Agriculture Great Again trade win comes on the heels of other major efforts from the Trump Administration to expand market access for American producers. In the last two months, USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) has worked with India to reduce tariffs on U.S. Bourbon imports by 50 percent, resulting in a likely $2 million increase in distilled spirits exports to India in 2025. USDA has also worked with Panama to exempt U.S. pork from Panama’s import quota mechanism and Pakistan to eliminate its arbitrary genetically engineered ban on U.S.-grown soybeans, resulting in the immediate sale of 65,000 metric tons of U.S.-grown soybeans in the country. The FAS efforts to expand market access also included working with Japan to lift the mandatory aflatoxin testing requirements on U.S. almonds, resulting in a likely eight to 10 percent increase of U.S. almond exports to Japan annually.



Yogurt, butter and American-type cheese provided bright spots in domestic commercial use during the year’s first quarter
NMPF/USDEC
 
Total U.S. dairy exports have steadily increased over the past three months. First quarter U.S. milk production rose 0.8% from a year earlier, due mostly to increased cow numbers; milk solids production grew by 2.1% over the same period.

Mostly lower dairy product prices in April produced a drop in Class II and Class IV prices from both last month and a year ago. April Class III prices were down from a month ago up but well above a year earlier. The DMC Decision Tool is estimating that the DMC margin has already reached its lowest level for the year, $10.43/cwt, in April.

View Full Report here...  https://www.nmpf.org/yogurt-butter-and-american-type-cheese-shine-as-prices-dip-in-april/.  

Wednesday May 28 Ag News - Crop Progress and more!

 NEBRASKA CROP PROGRESS AND CONDITION

For the week ending May 25, 2025, there were 4.0 days suitable for fieldwork, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. Topsoil moisture supplies rated 17% very short, 33% short, 48% adequate, and 2% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 27% very short, 41% short, 32% adequate, and 0% surplus.

Field Crops Report:
Corn condition rated 1% very poor, 2% poor, 27% fair, 58% good, and 12% excellent. Corn planted was 95%, ahead of 89% last year, and near 93% for the five-year average. Emerged was 77%, ahead of 58% last year and 67% average.

Soybean condition rated 0% very poor, 3% poor, 25% fair, 64% good, and 8% excellent. Soybeans planted was 91%, ahead of 77% last year and 84% average. Emerged was 63%, well ahead of 38% last year, and ahead of 49% average.

Winter wheat condition rated 27% very poor, 26% poor, 28% fair, 18% good, and 1% excellent. Winter wheat headed was 60%, ahead of 48% last year, and well ahead of 34% average.

Sorghum planted was 27%, near 29% last year, and behind 37% average.

Oats condition rated 3% very poor, 7% poor, 55% fair, 33% good, and 2% excellent. Oats emerged was 92%, equal to both last year and average. Headed was 9%, behind 14% last year, but near 8% average.

Dry edible beans planted was 56%, well ahead of 9% last year and 13% average.

Pasture and Range Report:
Pasture and range conditions rated 20% very poor, 31% poor, 32% fair, 17% good, and 0% excellent.



Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report

Timely rains while needed, limited Iowa farmers to 3.8 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending May 25, 2025, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Corn and soybean planting continued but some producers are waiting for warmer and drier conditions to start spraying.

Topsoil moisture condition rated 4 percent very short, 15 percent short, 76 percent adequate and 5 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 5 percent very short, 23 percent short, 67 percent adequate and 5 percent surplus.

Corn planted reached 95 percent. Corn emerged reached 76 percent, 6 days ahead of last year’s pace and 2 days ahead of normal. Corn condition rated 0 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 15 percent fair, 62 percent good and 21 percent excellent.

Ninety-two percent of the expected soybean crop has been planted, just over 2 weeks ahead of last year and 8 days ahead of the 5-year average. Soybeans emerged reached 60 percent, 8 days ahead of last year and 4 days ahead of normal. Soybean condition rated 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 64 percent good and 16 percent excellent.

Ninety-two percent of the State’s oat crop has emerged. Oats headed reached 26 percent. Oat condition rated 0 percent very poor, 1 percent poor, 13 percent fair, 69 percent good and 17 percent excellent.

Forty percent of the State’s first cutting of alfalfa hay has been completed.  Hay condition rated 85 percent good to excellent. Pasture condition rated 68 percent good to excellent.



USDA Weekly Crop Progress Report

The condition of the U.S. corn crop is 68% good-to-excellent in its first condition rating of the year, according to USDA NASS' weekly Crop Progress report released on Tuesday. The report is normally released on Mondays but was delayed this week due to Memorial Day.

Planting progress and crop development also remain slightly ahead of the five-year averages for both corn and soybeans nationwide, NASS reported.

Winter wheat conditions decreased slightly last week by 2 points, NASS said.

CORN
-- Planting progress: 87% of corn was planted nationwide as of Sunday, 6 points ahead of 81% last year and 2 points ahead of the five-year average of 85%.
-- Crop development: 67% of corn had emerged as of Sunday, 12 points ahead of last year's 55% and 7 points ahead of the five-year average of 60%.
-- Crop condition: In its first condition rating of the season for corn, NASS estimated that 68% of the crop was in good-to-excellent condition. Only 5% of the crop was rated very poor to poor.

SOYBEANS
-- Planting progress: Soybean planting managed to stay ahead of the average last week with 76% of the crop planted nationwide as of Sunday. That was 10 percentage points ahead of last year's pace of 66% and 8 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 68%.
-- Crop development: 50% of soybeans had emerged as of Sunday, 13 points ahead of last year's 37% and 10 points ahead of the five-year average of 40%.

WINTER WHEAT
-- Crop condition: 50% of the cop was rated in good-to-excellent condition as of May 25, down 2 points from 52% the previous week and up 2 points from the previous year of 48%. The percentage of the crop rated very poor to poor rose by 1 point from 18% the previous week to 19% last week.
-- Crop development: 75% of winter wheat was headed as of Sunday. That was 1 point below of 76% at this time last year and 5 points ahead of five-year average of 70%.

SPRING WHEAT
-- Planting progress: 87% of spring wheat was planted as of Sunday, consistent with this time last year and 7 points ahead of the five-year average of 80%.
-- Crop development: 60% of spring wheat has emerged, 2 points ahead of 58% last year and 7 points ahead of the five-year average of 53%.



Lower Elkhorn NRD Board of Directors Discuss Numerous Water Resources Items at Latest Meeting

The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) Board of Directors met on Thursday, May 22, at the LENRD office for their monthly Board Meeting. The agenda included topics ranging from monthly reports, Committee recommendations for the Logan East Rural Water System & Wau-Col Regional Water System, and action on items discussed at the Committee of the Whole meeting.

West Point Levee Interlocal Agreement Renewal
Directors voted to approve a three-year extension for the West Point Levee Interlocal Agreement. The City of West Point is working to re-certify the levee to meet Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) standards. The content of the agreement will remain the same, but the expiration date of the agreement will change from June 30, 2025, to June 30, 2028.

Construction on the required modifications began this spring and are planned to be completed prior to the end of the updated agreement.

Maple Creek WFPO Plan – Design Phase
The Watershed and Flood Prevention Operations (WFPO) Plan for Maple Creek has been approved by the Natural Resources Conservation Services (NRCS) National Headquarters. The Maple Creek WFPO plan was created to help the communities of Clarkson and Nickerson with flood reduction. If the communities choose to proceed with the Design Phase of the plan for their communities, they will be able to split the local costs of the project with the LENRD. Before proceeding onto the Design Phase of the project, the LENRD will wait to receive an official request from the town board of each community. No action was taken on the item.

Groundwater for Public Health Project Update
Doug Hallum, Water Resources Manager, gave an update to Directors on the Groundwater for Public Health Project through the Nebraska Environmental Trust. Citizens and landowners in the District were selected at random to complete a survey regarding groundwater monitoring for public health and could choose if they wanted to participate in the study.

The purpose of the study is to better establish the magnitude of agrichemical contamination in Nebraska water supplies. The LENRD is partnering with Dr. Martha Rhoades and Dr. Troy Gilmore at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln to expand the LENRD’s groundwater monitoring program. The LENRD will analyze water samples from 561 groundwater wells for nitrate, nitrite and over 30 other agrichemical compounds such as atrazine, glyphosate, and their transformation products. Results will be shared with the well owner, LENRD Board of Directors, and the public to guide future management decisions and protect public health. No personal or identifying information will be released to the public. All sampling and analysis will be free for the participants.

If you received a survey in the mail, please answer the questions in the enclosed survey and return it the LENRD using the postage-paid envelope provided.

Logan East Rural Water System Possible System Expansion
The Logan East Rural Water System has been exploring options for additional water capacity to satisfy requests for new service connections. The City of Oakland and the Logan East RWS entered into a Memorandum of Understanding earlier this year which committed the two entities to a discussion on an agreement that outlines the terms and conditions of a potential partnership. The City of Oakland is currently constructing new drinking water infrastructure which is designed to generate a capacity of 600,000 gallons per day, and of this amount, 200,000 gallons per day is deemed excess capacity which would be allocated to Logan East RWS.

Logan East RWS would be guaranteed the right to use up to 200,000 gallons of treated water in any given day. Preliminary discussions about the capacity charge between the City of Oakland and the Logan East RWS center around an amount of $3,420,000 to the City of Oakland for a one-time capacity charge and connection fee. The proposed base rate per month would be $500 with a use rate ($/1,000 gallon) of $3.

A special meeting to discuss the opportunity will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 29th, at the Logan East Rural Water System office in Oakland (206 N. Oakland Ave., Oakland, NE).

To learn more about the 12 responsibilities of Nebraska’s NRDs and how your local district can work with you and your community to protect your natural resources, visit www.lenrd.org and sign up for our bi-monthly emails. The next board of directors meeting will be Tuesday, June 26, 2025, at the LENRD office in Norfolk at 7:30 p.m. and on Facebook Live.



Trump Administration Appoints Hilary Maricle to Serve as State Executive Director for USDA’s Farm Service Agency in Nebraska

The Trump Administration recently appointed Hilary Maricle as the new State Executive Director (SED) for the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) in Nebraska. Maricle joined the Nebraska FSA team on May 5, 2025.

“When America’s farming communities prosper, the entire nation thrives. This new group of USDA appointees will ensure President Trump’s America First agenda is a reality in rural areas across the country. I am grateful for the leadership of these new state directors and look forward to their work reorienting the agency to put Farmers First again,” said Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins.

“FSA State Executive Directors serve in a critical role carrying out USDA’s mission at the state level — ensuring that our focus is on meeting the needs of local agricultural producers by putting farmers and ranchers first,” said FSA Administrator Bill Beam. “Rural communities need our support now more than ever. Our newly appointed state leaders bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to their position as SED, and they will play an integral role in shaping the future of agriculture in their state.”

Most recently, Maricle served as Deputy Director for the Nebraska Department of Agriculture. She previously served on the Nebraska Environmental Quality Council, American Farm Bureau Ag Promotion and Education Committee, American and Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation Boards and as a county commissioner. Maricle and her husband, Brian, are sixth generation farmers in central Nebraska where they raise beef, corn, soybeans, alfalfa, and lambs with their children and parents at Maricle Family Farms.

As SED, Maricle is responsible for overseeing the delivery of FSA programs to agricultural producers in Nebraska. These commodity, conservation, credit, and disaster assistance programs ensure a safe, affordable, abundant and nutritious food, fiber, and fuel supply for all Americans.



Beginning farmers chosen for CFRA conservation fellowship

Nine Nebraska producers have been selected for the fourth cohort of the Center for Rural Affairs’ Beginning Farmer Conservation Fellowship.

The program explores conservation practices such as cover cropping, rotational grazing, pollinator habitat, soil health, water conservation, topography, and more.

“Across our state, farmers and ranchers are working to implement working lands conservation practices,” said Cait Caughey, senior beginning farmer and market associate with the Center. “These practices are vital to the health of our soil and environment while producing the food we need. Beginning farmer fellows will benefit from the curriculum we’ve developed with partners and experts on climate change mitigation and resource management.”

Beginning farmers chosen to deepen their conservation knowledge will complete coursework in conservation programs and practices, climate change adaptation and impacts, racial equity, and leadership.

They will attend classes and field days, design and implement a conservation project on a farm with technical assistance from Center staff, and have an opportunity to present at local conferences and give an on-farm tour. The program runs through August 2026.

2025 fellows include:
Paul Callahan and Dené Oglesby, Ashland. The couple practices regenerative agriculture, permaculture, and custom grazing on their 9-acre farm, Thornwood. Oglesby is a trained herbalist and native plant/pollinator enthusiast; she volunteers as a Nebraska University Extension Master Gardener and works to incorporate native habitat everywhere possible. Callahan has apprenticed with a local rancher and is exploring silvopasture, the deliberate integration of trees and grazing livestock operations on the same land.

Skylar Falter, Steinauer. Falter developed an interest in local agriculture during a year-long exchange program in China, where she witnessed small-scale, sustainable, community-focused farming. Since 2012, she has worked across the food system as a farm worker, assistant farmers market manager, restaurant server, and operator of an urban vegetable farm. She moved to the country five years ago, and since, has continued her relationship with the land through gardening, wild harvesting, and perennial planting.

Josh Frank, Filley. Frank and his wife, Corinne, operate Giving Tree Farm outside Beatrice with a focus on agritourism, organic fruit production, and grazing grass-fed beef. Some of Josh's fondest memories were summer stays on his grandparents' farm near Auburn.

Denice Hansen, Pierce. Hansen has lived on her family’s farm most of her life and grew up in a traditional cow/calf and row crop operation. She’s enthusiastic about getting more involved and trying new things, like mushroom farming, and has a goal of diversifying offerings and introducing regenerative practices.

Donnita Jimmis, Dunning. Jimmis is a beginning lavender farmer, building a sustainable, conservation-minded operation from the ground up with her fiancé, Andrew. She is starting with an acre of lavender with plans to expand. Her mission centers on land stewardship, educating others about environmental responsibility, protecting pollinators, and nurturing healthy soil.

Lainey Johnson, Firth. Bright Hope Family Farm is stewarded by the husband and wife team of Andy and Lainey Johnson, who work with their children and close-knit employees. The farm produces high-quality cut flowers for florists, designers, markets, and the general public. Their focus is on soil health and environmental stewardship through holistic and no-till farming practices.

Nolan Lemna, Lincoln. Lemna farms with Morning Sky Acres, a first-generation cattle ranch in eastern Nebraska. Beyond cattle, he is implementing plant, produce, and egg production within the business.

Dyllan Usher, Roca. Usher holds a background in mathematics and spent several years developing software to fund his passion for farming. Today, he operates Salt Creek Farm, where he cares for laying hens and cultivates a variety of vegetables supplied to local restaurants.

Each fellow must be actively farming in Nebraska and engaged in farming for 10 years or less.



Select the Right Supplements for Your Cows

When it comes to choosing the right mineral package for your cows, one size does NOT fit all. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach beef specialist Erika Lundy-Woolfolk said the decision begins with two factors: the stage of production and the current diet.

“With much of the Iowa cow herd now being turned out on pasture, be sure to compare components formulated for early spring, breeding season or late summer as you consider overall packages,” she said. “Some vitamins, minerals and other additives provide specific value to this diet.”

For example, during the early, rapid growth stage of cool-season pastures and cover crops, it’s important that cows get extra magnesium.

“The vegetative grass is high in potassium, which is antagonistic to magnesium, and without adjusting to fortify the diet, there is a risk of grass tetany,” Lundy-Woolfolk said. “Once grass growth has slowed and the early cool-season species start to head out, the potassium content drops, and the extra magnesium is no longer needed.”

Copper, cobalt, manganese, zinc and similar trace minerals have a critical role in reproductive success. Many breeding packages will be formulated to have higher levels of these now than at other times of year.

Lundy-Woolfolk said vitamins play an important role in reproduction and a female's return to estrus, and some breeding packages will boost vitamin levels.

“However, most actively growing forages have high vitamin levels, so additional supplementation of vitamins is not warranted unless forage supplies dwindle and stored feed is fed,” she said.

Other feed additives can be used to combat nutritional and health challenges. In the summer, garlic or IGR might be incorporated as a fly control measure. Another example would be feeding CTC to control anaplasmosis. Summer packages in fescue areas may have additives designed to reduce the impact of fescue toxicosis.



Secretary Rollins Increases Funding to Reimburse States for Food Safety Inspections

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced today she will exercise the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) authority to provide a much-needed funding increase of $14.5 million in reimbursements to states for meat and poultry inspection programs. Without this funding, States may not have the resources to continue their own inspection programs which ensure products are safe. This funding increase ensures American produced meat and poultry can make it to market and onto the tables of families across the country.

“President Trump is committed to ensuring Americans have access to a safe, affordable food supply. Today I exercised my authority to robustly fund state meat and poultry inspection programs to ensure states can continue to partner with USDA to deliver effective and efficient food safety inspection,” said Secretary Rollins. “While the Biden Administration let this funding decline in recent years, the Trump Administration recognizes the importance of our federal-state partnerships and will ensure services that our meat and poultry processors and producers rely on will continue to operate on a normal basis. The President’s commitment is reflected in his 2026 budget proposal, which calls on Congress to address this funding shortfall moving forward.”

This is not a sustainable path forward. Policymakers across the federal government should come together to think through ways to continue these critical state meat and poultry inspection programs.

Agricultural State Leaders Voice Support from Across the Nation
“President Trump and Secretary Rollins continue to deliver on their promise to partner with states, and today’s announced investment in state meat and poultry inspection programs is a clear demonstration of that commitment,” said Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig. “In Iowa, state-inspected meat lockers expand market access, boost processing capacity, and provide consumers with more locally-raised protein options. This announcement supports our livestock industry, grows our rural economy, and ensures that taxpayer dollars are used effectively to strengthen our food supply chain.”



From Field to Fleet: High-Blend Biodiesel Ribbon Cutting Celebration on May 29

The Iowa Soybean Association, Iowa Biodiesel Board, Pilot Travel Centers LLC, PepsiCo, and Optimus Technologies will host a special event May 29th celebrating a major milestone in clean fuel leadership: the arrival of a B99 biodiesel pump at Pilot's Des Moines travel center (11957 Douglas Ave, Urbandale, IA 50323), dedicated for fleet usage.

HIGHLIGHTED SPEAKERS:
- Mike Naig, Iowa Ag Secretary
- Eric Fobes, Head of Renewables, Pilot
- Colin Huwyler, CEO, Optimus Technologies
- Dave Walton, Iowa Soybean Association and Iowa Biodiesel Board
- Sarah Towles, Senior Director of Government Affairs, PepsiCo

This milestone was made possible through a shared commitment to cleaner fuels and fleet innovation. PepsiCo, with ambitious net-zero goals, plans to fuel its Des Moines-based distribution fleet at the new B99 pump, using advanced engine systems from Optimus Technologies—offering a powerful demonstration of real-world adoption of high biodiesel blends. With Iowa leading the nation as the first state to implement a B30+ incentive, this event reflects both bold progress and future possibilities for renewable biodiesel.



Armstrong Research and Demonstration Farm Field Day Is June 26

The annual summer field day at Iowa State University’s Armstrong Research and Demonstration Farm in Lewis will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 26. The field day will feature experts from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and other partner organizations, who will speak on a variety of current crop and soil health practices in agriculture.

Wes Everman, extension weed management specialist at Iowa State, will begin the program by providing insights on integrated weed management strategies. Then, James Holz, Iowa farmer and co-owner of Iowa Cover Crop, will discuss financial considerations for cover crops.

The Iowa Natural Resources Conservation Service team will begin the afternoon session with a presentation on assessing soil function. Rick Cruse, professor of agronomy at Iowa State and director of the Iowa Water Center, will discuss water resource management and climate resilience. Daren Mueller, extension plant pathologist at Iowa State, will wrap up the day by sharing tips for corn and soybean disease management to maximize profitability.

“This field day is a hands-on, interactive workshop. We encourage participants to bring their questions,” said Aaron Saeugling, field agronomist with ISU Extension and Outreach. “The research farm will be open for visitors to observe the research plots, and visitors can also ask a variety of questions about farm operations, as the farm staff will be in attendance.”

This field day is available to the public at no cost, but those who would like to attend can  RSVP online or by contacting Ruth Blomquist at 319-541-2969 or ruth.blomquist@usda.gov by June 19. A complimentary lunch will also be provided.

This field day is offered in partnership with the Southwest Iowa Soil Health group, a group of volunteer farmers, ISU Extension and Outreach staff, NRCS staff, and IDALS staff, who are passionate about soil health and committed to increasing soil health awareness and adoption across southwest Iowa. The field day event is made possible due to support from SWISH, ISU Armstrong Research and Demonstration Farm, the Wallace Foundation, ISU Extension and Outreach and the Iowa Soybean Association.

For more information, contact Aaron Saeugling at 712-254-0082 or clonz5@iastate.edu.



Update on USDA Efforts to Fight New World Screwworm in Mexico

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins today provided an update on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) ongoing partnership with Mexico to combat the New World Screwworm (NWS). This afternoon, Secretary Rollins held a call with her counterpart in Mexico, Secretary Berdegue, to discuss the ongoing threat of NWS and actions being taken by both countries to contain the threat south of the U.S. border. USDA is working daily with Mexico to make sure the resources, tactics, and tools are in place to effectively eradicate NWS. Additionally, Secretary Rollins announced today the USDA is investing $21 million to renovate an existing fruit fly production facility in Metapa, Mexico to further the long-term goal of eradicating this insect. When operational, this facility will produce 60-100 million additional sterile NWS flies weekly to push the population further south in Mexico. Given the geographic spread of NWS, this additional production capacity will be critical to our response.

“Our partnership with Mexico is crucial in making this effort a success,” said Secretary Rollins. “We are continuing to work closely with Mexico to push NWS away from the United States and out of Mexico. The investment I am announcing today is one of many efforts my team is making around the clock to protect our animals, our farm economy, and the security of our nation’s food supply.”

Current restrictions on live animal imports from Mexico remain in place, and as previously announced, USDA will continue to evaluate the current suspension every 30 days.

USDA and its partners have used sterile insect technique, or SIT, along with other strategies such as intense surveillance and import controls for decades to eradicate and effectively keep NWS at bay. Currently, U.S. supported sterile insect rearing and dispersal operations in Mexico and Central America have been operating at full production capacity, with up to 44 flights a week releasing 100 million sterile flies. All flies used today are raised in the Panama - United States Commission for the Eradication and Prevention of Screwworm (COPEG) Facility in Panama. This investment in the Metapa facility in Mexico would allow USDA to double the use of SIT.

Additionally, USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and its Mexican counterparts continue to hold ongoing technical calls and meetings on NWS. They are making strong progress toward enhancing surveillance in Mexico, addressing administrative or regulatory roadblocks that could impair an effective response, and ensuring appropriate animal movement controls are in place to prevent further NWS spread. The Mexican delegation joined APHIS in DC last week to discuss these efforts, and APHIS will have a technical team visiting Mexico in the coming weeks to assess the on-the-ground situation and continue working toward key goals around surveillance and animal movement.



On Feed
Matthew Diersen, Risk & Business Management Specialist, South Dakota State University

The Cattle on Feed report was released after the markets closed last Friday. The trade was expecting a smaller on-feed total compared to last year, with both placements and marketings down a similar percentage to a year ago. Slaughter volume was lower last month, suggesting smaller marketings expectations were warranted. Feeder cattle auction volume was sharply higher last month, but direct volumes were sharply lower. The volume of feeder cattle reflected in the Feeder Cattle Index was also lower during April compared to last year.

Actual placements came in slightly above trade expectations. Kansas feedlots stood out as having higher placements compared to other states, while those in Texas had lower placements. There was no strong pattern in placement weights. The heifer mix in feeder sales volume was down a little in April. When coupled with low winter hay use it may indicate some producers are trying to hold back some heifers. Imports from Mexico (open during April) have again been suspended because of screwworm concerns. Both factors further pressure tight feeder cattle supplies.

Actual marketings in April were higher than trade expectations. Nebraska feedlots had more marketings compared to other states, while those in Kansas had fewer marketings. The total number on feed, 11.4 million head, was in line with trade expectations. Seasonally, the total on feed is very consistent with smaller volumes heading into the late summer months.

Seasonally, June and July are typically lower volume months for placements. This time of year may be challenging for hedging feeder cattle for both buyers and sellers. Feeder cattle futures and options are cash settled. Without any physical delivery the last trade date is the same for both contracts. For example, the May futures and options expired last Thursday, the last non-holiday Thursday of the month not preceded by any holiday disruptions. The next listed contract is August, with its last trading day at the end of that month. This is a wide time span between contract months. As a result, any hedging between now and the end of August could have greater basis risk as cash prices and the nearby futures can diverge. The other time of year with a wide span would be between the November contract, with the last trade date before Thanksgiving, and the January contract. Note that Livestock Risk Protection settles to specific end dates and does not present the same type of basis risk. If the CME Group added serial or short-dated options for feeder cattle, it would potentially mitigate some of that disparity.

Friday May 23 Cattle on Feed, Red Meat Prod, Cold Storage, MAHA, Reconcilliation Bill, and more Ag News

 NEBRASKA CATTLE ON FEED UP 2%

Nebraska feedlots, with capacities of 1,000 or more head, contained 2.55 million cattle on feed on May 1, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. This inventory was up 2% from last year. Placements during April totaled 445,000 head, unchanged from 2024. Fed cattle marketings for the month of April totaled 485,000 head, up 4% from last year. Other disappearance during April totaled 10,000 head, unchanged from last year.



United States Cattle on Feed Down 2 Percent

Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 11.4 million head on May 1, 2025. The inventory was 2 percent below May 1, 2024.

On Feed, by State  (1,000 hd - % May 1 '24
Colorado .......:            960           101         
Iowa .............:            680           103          
Kansas ...........:          2,290           100          
Nebraska .......:          2,550           102          
Texas ............:          2,590            94           

Placements in feedlots during April totaled 1.61 million head, 3 percent below 2024. Net placements were 1.56 million head. During April, placements of cattle and calves weighing less than 600 pounds were 310,000 head, 600-699 pounds were 225,000 head, 700-799 pounds were 370,000 head, 800-899 pounds were 443,000 head, 900-999 pounds were 195,000 head, and 1,000 pounds and greater were 70,000 head.

Placements by State  (1,000 hd  -  % April '24)
Colorado .......:               120             89     
Iowa .............:                87             98        
Kansas ...........:              380            103          
Nebraska .......:              445            100         
Texas ............:              310             94             

Marketings of fed cattle during April totaled 1.83 million head, 3 percent below 2024. Other disappearance totaled 50,000 head during April, 11 percent below 2024.

Marketings by State  (1,000 hd  -  % April '24)
Colorado .......:                155             91        
Iowa .............:                 86             99          
Kansas ...........:               420             91          
Nebraska .......:               485            104          
Texas ............:                380             99          




Commercial Red Meat Production Down 1 Percent from Last Year

Commercial red meat production for the United States totaled 4.60 billion pounds in April, down 1 percent from the 4.64 billion pounds produced in April 2024.

Beef production, at 2.24 billion pounds, was 3 percent below the previous year. Cattle slaughter totaled 2.57 million head, down 6 percent from April 2024. The average live weight was up 36 pounds from the previous year, at 1,431 pounds.

Veal production totaled 2.1 million pounds, 39 percent below April a year ago. Calf slaughter totaled 10,300 head, down 41 percent from April 2024. The average live weight was up 17 pounds from last year, at 355 pounds.

Pork production totaled 2.34 billion pounds, up 1 percent from the previous year. Hog slaughter totaled 10.8 million head, up 1 percent from April 2024. The average live weight was up 1 pound from the previous year, at 291 pounds.

Lamb and mutton production, at 12.8 million pounds, was up 13 percent from April 2024. Sheep slaughter totaled 205,000 head, 9 percent above last year. The average live weight was 123 pounds, up 4 pounds from April a year ago.

Production by State (million lbs - % April '24)
Nebraska ...........:          655.7             99       
Iowa ..................:          758.1             98       
Kansas ...............:           486.9             96       

January to April 2025 commercial red meat production was 18.1 billion pounds, down 1 percent from 2024. Accumulated beef production was down 1 percent from last year, veal was down 40 percent, pork was down 1 percent from last year, and lamb and mutton production was up 4 percent.



USDA Cold Storage April 2025 Highlights

Total red meat supplies in freezers on April 30, 2025 were up 5 percent from the previous month but down 6 percent from last year. Total pounds of beef in freezers were down 2 percent from the previous month and down 2 percent from last year. Frozen pork supplies were up 11 percent from the previous month but down 9 percent from last year. Stocks of pork bellies were up 9 percent from last month but down 22 percent from last year.

Total frozen poultry supplies on April 30, 2025 were down slightly from the previous month and down 5 percent from a year ago. Total stocks of chicken were down 2 percent from the previous month but up 2 percent from last year. Total pounds of turkey in freezers were up 5 percent from last month but down 18 percent from April 30, 2024.

Total natural cheese stocks in refrigerated warehouses on April 30, 2025 were up 1 percent from the previous month but down 2 percent from April 30, 2024. Butter stocks were up 4 percent from last month but down 7 percent from a year ago.

Total frozen fruit stocks were down 9 percent from last month and down 1 percent from a year ago. Total frozen vegetable stocks were down 7 percent from last month and down 6 percent from a year ago.



House Passes Reconciliation Bill with Key Wins for Agriculture
Nebraska Farm Bureau

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed their version of what has been called the “One Big Beautiful” reconciliation bill, delivering several important provisions for farmers and ranchers. The legislation includes long-awaited updates to farm programs, such as increased reference prices and expanded crop insurance options, offering producers stronger risk management tools.

On the tax side, the bill reauthorizes and expands the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, a top priority for the Nebraska Farm Bureau. The bill increases the federal estate tax exemption, maintains the current lowered federal income tax brackets, and extends the 199A and bonus depreciation tax credits, all which would be drastically altered should Congress fail to pass an extension.

Nebraska Farm Bureau remains concerned with the significant provision requiring a state cost-share of the federal SNAP or food stamp program which would lead to a new state expenditure of anywhere between $80 million and $100 million.

Despite the narrow vote margin, the bill now heads to the Senate, where significant changes are expected.

Nebraska Farm Bureau wants to thank Nebraska Congressmen Mike Flood (NE-1), Don Bacon (NE-2), and Adrian Smith (NE-3) for their exceptional work in trying to improve this important legislation.

Nebraska Farm Bureau members are encouraged to stay engaged as the legislative process continues.



Bacon Issues Statement on Reconciliation Bill Vote

Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement about the Reconciliation Vote earlier this morning:

“No expectant mothers, single parents, children, disabled, or elderly are losing SNAP or Medicaid benefits. That misinformation is being spread to try and scare people.

“By passing this bill, we will strengthen these programs through an audit of the programs, removal of those who should not be receiving benefits, and making sure that able-bodied adults without dependents are fulfilling work and volunteer requirements that are already in place for the program. Those who are eligible for Medicaid and SNAP are not touched by this bill. We protected those who need Medicaid and SNAP.

“We have also made the tax cuts permanent, saving the average Nebraska family of four making $80,000 from a tax increase of about $1,700.

“Additionally, this bill includes crucial defense spending increases, supplementing national defense by approximately $144 billion over four years, ensuring we can properly maintain our military readiness and take care of our troops. We're strengthening our borders through a new $12 billion grant fund to support states' border security efforts and approximately $90 billion in total border security investments.

“I worked closely with Republican leadership to advocate for the needs of Nebraskans and this bill, while not perfect, reflects that.”



Pork Producers’ Wins Included in House-Passed Reconciliation Bill
 
National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) President Duane Stateler, a pork producer from McComb, Ohio, released the following statement on the reconciliation package that passed the U.S. House of Representatives.
 
“America’s pork producers are one step closer to more certainty with the House’s reconciliation bill passage, which includes necessary legislation to keep farms afloat during uncertain times. At the same time, we will keep pressure on Congress to pass a five-year farm bill, which includes a fix to California Proposition 12.”
 
NPPC urges the Senate to advance the following provisions to ensure pork producers can continue to farm and have more certainty to pass down their farms to the next generation.

    Preserving necessary resources to protect the nation’s food supply through foreign animal disease (FAD) prevention, including:
    o    National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures Bank
    o    National Animal Health Laboratory Network
    o    National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program
    o    National Veterinary Stockpile
     
    Increasing market access programs for U.S. pork.
    o    The Market Access Program (MAP) and Foreign Market Development Program (FMD) build export markets for U.S. agricultural products through generic marketing and promotion and the reduction of foreign import constraints. For every $1 spent on MAP and FMD programs, U.S. agriculture saw $24.50 in export gains and contributed to the creation of 225,800 full-and part-time jobs across the U.S. economy.
     
    Maintaining resources for the feral swine eradication to protect the health of our herds.o    Established in the 2018 Farm Bill, the hugely successful Feral Swine Eradication and Control Pilot Program helps address the threat feral swine pose to agriculture, ecosystems, and human and animal health, especially through FADs like African swine fever.
     
    Making the Qualified Business Income Deduction permanent, allowing producers to make organizational decisions for their business not based solely on tax liability.
     
    Making Bonus Depreciation permanent at 100% to provide producers with flexibility to plan cash flows for major asset acquisitions.
     
    Changing the way the Business Interest Expense Limitation is calculated to avoid harming producers relying on borrowing to make improvements or normalize cash flow in poor market conditions.
     
    Making the Estate Tax Exemption increase permanent to prevent new tax exposure for family-owned farms.
     
    Substantially increasing the expensing limitations of Section 179 to provide producers flexibility in planning cash flows around major asset acquisitions.



NCBA Priorities Approved in House Reconciliation Bill

Several key priorities championed by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) moved one step closer to becoming law when the U.S. House of Representatives passed their reconciliation bill. The bill includes key cattle health, disaster recovery, and tax priorities crucial to the success of America’s cattle farmers and ranchers.
 
“Cattle farmers and ranchers need Congress to invest in cattle health, strengthen our resources against foreign animal disease, support producers recovering from disasters or depredation, and pass tax relief that protects family farms and ranches for future generations,” said NCBA President and Nebraska cattleman Buck Wehrbein. “Thankfully, this reconciliation bill includes all these key priorities. NCBA was proud to help pass this bill in the House and we will continue pushing for these key policies until the bill is signed into law.”
 
The reconciliation bill includes provisions that are crucial to the success of cattle producers and will:
    Reimburse cattle producers for loss due to depredation by federally protected predators.
    Expand access to the livestock forage disaster program for producers experiencing drought.
    Continue funding the feral swine eradication program.
    Bolster the “three-legged stool” that protects the cattle industry from foreign animal disease, including the National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program (NADPRP), the National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN), and the National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures Bank (NAVVCB). The NAVVCB currently houses emergency supplies for responding to a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak.

Additionally, the bill includes key NCBA tax priorities that protect the legacy of family farms and ranches for future generations, such as:
    An increase to the estate and gift tax exemption amounts to $15 million per individual and $30 million per couple, adjusted for inflation annually. The package also makes this exemption permanent.
    Preserved stepped-up basis.
    A permanent increase to the Section 199A Small Business deduction from 20% to 23%.
    Expanding the limitation on Section 179 expensing from $1 million to $2.5 million.
    Reinstating the 100% bonus depreciation for five years.
    Extending the Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2023.

“The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association extends our gratitude to all the members of Congress who voted yes on this reconciliation package,” said NCBA Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane. “America’s farming and ranching families sorely need the provisions in this bill to succeed. We strongly urge the Senate to swiftly pass this bill and deliver a win for our nation’s cattle producers.”



NCGA Comments on Next Steps for Budget Reconciliation Bill

The U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 1, the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” this week. The budget reconciliation legislation will next be considered by the U.S. Senate. In response to these developments, Illinois farmer and National Corn Growers Association President Kenneth Hartman released the following statement:

“Congress took a large legislative step forward today with the House passage of the budget reconciliation bill. We encourage the U.S. Senate to include corn growers’ priorities as the legislation is changed and considered going forward. For example, the bill is an opportunity for extending year-round, consumer access to E15. We will continue to advocate for the inclusion of our tax and agriculture priorities, which are important to the financial wellbeing of farmers and their families.”



Statement by Mark McHargue, President, Regarding Make Our Children Healthy Again Report
 
“Nebraska Farm Bureau is highly disappointed in the recently released Make Our Children Healthy Again or MAHA Report. It is abundantly clear the report was written to cast doubt and fear about our food system, highlighting outlier studies and unproven theories. At the same time, it makes an insincere attempt to celebrate farmers while pledging to help them thrive. Nebraska's farmers and ranchers are committed to improving human health outcomes with sound science and the use of the latest technology. As the MAHA Commission continues with their work, we hope there is a more transparent process with farmers involved and a heavy dose of science ultimately guiding the conversation.”



Iowa Corn Growers Deeply Troubled by MAHA Report Release

The Make America Healthy Again Commission released its long-awaited report, which denigrates the safety of key pesticides used by corn growers and other farmers. In response, the Iowa Corn Growers Association released the following statement:   

“The report released by the Make American Healthy Again Commission is deeply concerning to Iowa corn growers. Crop protection tools, like pesticides, are essential for farmers working to provide affordable, high-quality food to those around the world. Farmers should not have to defend themselves against misinformation when decades of scientific research prove these tools are not only safe but essential.   

“Farmers care deeply about leaving the land better than they found it. The crops farmers grow is the food they feed their own families, and together they strive to ensure that their agricultural products are safe and accessible for everyone who depends on them.”



Selecting the right supplements for your cows

When it comes to choosing the right mineral package for your cows, one size does NOT fit all. Iowa State University extension beef specialist Erika Lundy-Woolfolk said the decision begins with two factors: the stage of production and the current diet.

“With much of the Iowa cow herd now being turned out on pasture, be sure to compare components formulated for early spring, breeding season, or late summer as you consider overall packages,” she said. “Some vitamins, minerals, and other additives provide specific value to this diet.”

For example, during the early, rapid growth stage of cool-season pastures and cover crops, it’s important that cows get extra magnesium.

“The vegetative grass is high in potassium, which is antagonistic to magnesium, and without adjusting to fortify the diet, there is a risk of grass tetany,” Lundy-Woolfolk said. “Once grass growth has slowed and the early cool-season species start to head out, the potassium content drops, and the extra magnesium is no longer needed.”

Copper, cobalt, manganese, zinc, and similar trace minerals have a critical role in reproductive success. Many breeding packages will be formulated to have higher levels of these now than at other times of year.

Lundy-Woolfolk said vitamins play an important role in reproduction and a female's return to estrus, and some breeding packages will boost vitamin levels.

“However, most actively growing forages have high vitamin levels, so additional supplementation of vitamins is not warranted unless forage supplies dwindle and stored feed is fed,” she said.

Other feed additives can be used to combat nutritional and health challenges In the summer, garlic or IGR might be incorporated as a fly control measure. Another example would be feeding CTC to control anaplasmosis. Summer packages in fescue areas may have additives designed to reduce the impact of fescue toxicosis.



Tech Hub LIVE Conference and Expo Returns to Des Moines, July 21-23, 2025, for 5-Year Celebration of Ag Tech Innovation

Tech Hub LIVE Conference and ExpoSM, the premier event for ag retailers and precision ag professionals, returns to the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines, Iowa, July 21-23, 2025, to mark five years of delivering real-world ag tech solutions under the theme “TECH THAT WORKS: Driving Efficiencies for Retailer Success and Farmer Resilience.”

Powered by the CropLife Media Group™, in partnership with the Global AgTech Initiative and AgriBusiness Global brands, Tech Hub LIVE continues to grow as the industry’s largest gathering of ag retailers, dealers, agronomists, distributors, manufacturers, consultants, and tech providers committed to advancing practical innovation in agriculture.

Opening Keynote Highlights:
    Mike Naig, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, will officially welcome attendees and open the conference with a forward-looking conversation on innovation, sustainability, and the future of farming.
    Jeff Blair, President and CEO of GreenPoint Ag, will headline the keynote presentation, “Beyond the Headwinds: Adapting & Advancing,” addressing the economic pressures facing ag retailers—from high input costs to market instability—and how technology is enabling new levels of efficiency and resilience.

“We’re navigating a tough landscape, but we’re not standing still,” said Blair. “With the right tools—automation, data analytics, precision systems—we’re not just adapting, we’re advancing. Tech Hub LIVE is where these conversations become action, and I’m proud to be part of it.”

Registration is now open, with Early Bird Rates available through May 30 at www.TechHubLIVE.com.

The 2025 event will feature an active exhibit hall showcasing the latest technologies, along with a dynamic lineup of breakout sessions, panel discussions, expert exchanges, Tech Talks, and fireside chats with CropLife editors—offering unique insights into the future of ag retail and data-driven farming, while giving attendees the flexibility to tailor their experience across a wide range of sessions and formats.

Partner sponsors include Agri-Access and the Greater Des Moines Partnership, further reinforcing the event’s strategic focus on innovation and community impact.

“Tech Hub LIVE has always been about what works—solutions that help ag retailers and growers succeed today while preparing for what’s next,” said Amy Reddington, Show Director. “This year’s event marks a milestone and a moment to look ahead together.”

For more information or to register, visit www.TechHubLIVE.com.



Secretary Rollins Approves State Waivers to Make America Healthy Again by Removing Unhealthy Foods from SNAP in Indiana and Iowa

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins signed waivers to amend the statutory definition of food for purchase for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programs (SNAP) in Indiana and Iowa, each commencing in 2026. On Monday, Secretary Rollins signed the first-ever waiver of this kind in Nebraska.

“President Trump has given our nation a once in a generation opportunity to change the health trajectory for our entire country. On my first day as Secretary, I sent a call to states to innovate, and Governors Jim Pillen, Kim Reynolds, Mike Braun, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Laura Kelly, Patrick Morrisey, Jared Polis, Brad Little, Spencer Cox, and Greg Abbott have stepped up and taken action. I look forward to signing even more waivers in the days ahead as we continue to restore the health of America,” said Secretary Rollins.

“Indiana is proud to be a leader in the Make America Healthy Again initiative, and today Secretary Rollins signed our waiver to return SNAP in Indiana to its intended purpose: nutrition. President Trump and Secretary Rollins are putting our farmers first and supporting American agriculture, and I was proud to join them today,” said Governor Braun.

“Soaring obesity rates have brought our nation and state to a crossroads,” said Governor Reynolds. “To promote healthy eating and protect future generations from disease—and to ensure SNAP fulfills its core function—we need a change. Thank you to Secretary Rollins and her team for helping make that change happen.”

Prior to these waivers, SNAP recipients could buy anything except alcohol, tobacco, hot foods, and personal care products. This historic action expands the list of products excluded from SNAP purchases in Indiana and Iowa. Indiana’s waiver excludes soft drinks and candy, and it will take effect Jan. 1, 2026. The waiver for Iowa excludes any food item eligible for sales tax including sweetened beverages, snacks, and candy, and this waiver will take effect Jan. 1, 2026.

As part of the Make America Healthy Again agenda, this historic action seeks to reverse alarming disease trends across the country. Prediabetes now affects one in three children ages 12 to 19; 40% of school-aged children and adolescents have at least one chronic condition; and 15% of high school students drink one or more sodas daily.



U.S. Grains Council, NCGA Observe Corn Planting In Nebraska

Earlier this month, Nebraska Corn invited U.S. Grains Council (USGC) and National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) staff to visit local farms as they plant the 2025 corn crop and tour key cogs in the state’s agricultural value chain.

USGC Manager of Global Programs Samantha Redfern; USGC Industry Relations Coordinator Emily Schneider; USGC Manager of Global Programs Shuda Jarboe; USGC Regional Ethanol Manager for the European Union, United Kingdom and Canada Stephanie Larson; and USGC Global Programs Coordinator John Owen attended to learn about the planting process and the conservation efforts in use to ensure healthy harvests for years to come.

“Planting season is the perfect opportunity for Council staff, especially new employees, to visit our members across the country and learn about their operations and their priorities in how their crops are grown, shipped and sold,” Redfern said.

Upon arrival, the group visited the greenhouse at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Innovation Campus to observe the latest research and development in the academic agricultural community. Later, they stopped at the Nebraska Corn Board to learn about modern irrigation techniques that reduce the water consumption of U.S. corn.

The next day, USGC member POET hosted a tour at its Fairmont ethanol plant for staff to see how biofuels and their co-products, like distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) and corn fermented protein (CFP), are produced.

For further insight into corn production and uses, the team visited the farms of Nebraska Corn Growers Association President Michael Dibbern and Nebraska Corn Board Director Dan Nerud to check in on their planting progress and study their production methods. Additionally, staff visited a local feedlot to further their understanding of feed grains' role throughout the value chain.

“International customers prefer to know as much as possible about where their product came from, and by visiting U.S. producers and sharing their stories, the Council’s staff is better equipped to nurture global market growth,” Redfern said. “Thank you to our members, Nebraska Corn and POET, for their warm hospitality and for contributing to the Council’s mission of developing markets, enabling trade and improving lives.”



USMEF Conference Focuses on Innovative Solutions in a Challenging Trade Environment

The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) concluded its Spring Conference in Fort Worth, Texas, Friday with a panel discussion in which senior international staff gave examples of innovative efforts to overcome trade challenges.

Jihae Yang, USMEF vice president for the Asia Pacific, noted that with high tariffs and other barriers severely limiting pork and beef exports to China, the organization has intensified campaigns aimed at moving items traditionally popular in China to alternative markets. For example USMEF partnered with a major retailer in South Korea for a promotion of U.S. beef short plate, after uncertainty over plant eligibility and higher tariffs made the product more difficult to move in China. Yang added that if the trade impasse with China persists, she foresees more U.S. short plate being available to importers and distributors in Southeast Asia.

Yang also updated members on how USMEF is working with a Korean meal kit manufacturer and a Japanese distributor to develop and promote items featuring U.S. pork bung. U.S. pork tongue trimmings are also being promoted in popular dishes in Japan’s casual dining sector.

Gerardo Rodriguez, USMEF director for Mexico, Central America and the Dominican Republic, explained that while Mexico has been developed into the largest destination for U.S. red meat, the U.S. industry now faces unprecedented levels of competition in the Mexican market. He noted that it is more important than ever to differentiate U.S. red meat from other suppliers’ products and educate consumers about its unique attributes.

“Right now a major focus for USMEF is to establish loyalty in the next generation of consumers, developing several programs for the future customer,” Rodriguez said. “With Mexico being a trading partner for so long, it can be easy to think of it as a mature market. But there are always new markets within the market that we can expand, and new tactics we can employ. Our mobile grill academy is a good example, where we highlight the unique attributes of U.S. red meat all across the country.”

USMEF Latin America Representative Homero Recio highlighted the U.S. industry’s efforts to overcome Colombia’s restrictions on U.S. beef, which were imposed for much of last year due to findings of highly pathogenic avian influenza in dairy cows. The ban, which eventually extended to beef from 14 U.S. states, was lifted in September 2024 but the impact has persisted, in part because it created a new opportunity in the Colombian market for Canadian beef. Recio said that while reclaiming this business has not been easy, it has resulted in heightened efforts to establish customer loyalty to U.S. red meat.

“This really gave us the resolve to say, ‘we're going to get this back, we're going to fight back,’” he explained. "In the past, we often talked about ‘our importers.’ Well, you know what? ‘Our importers’ went and bought Canadian beef. So we have to go to the next level, whether it's with a supermarket chain or a foodservice chain, and develop a further, stronger relationship with them and really tie them to a brand.”

John Newton, executive head of Terrain, was the featured speaker at USMEF’s Thursday general session. Newton applauded the House of Representatives’ passage of President Trump’s budget reconciliation bill earlier that morning.

“If anybody stayed up until 3:00 or 4:00 in the morning last night, you know that President Trump’s ‘big, beautiful bill’ made it over the finish line in the House. There is work to do in the Senate, but the bill touches on a lot of the Farm Bill elements that farmers have been asking for.”

Newton explained the urgency of many farm programs included in the bill as he described some of the major challenges facing agriculture, especially row crop producers. Farm operating costs remain elevated while revenue derived for major crops have been below cost of production for three straight years, he said. Input costs show no signs of going down, while crop prices have – in some cases – fallen by 30% and show no signs of improvement.

“For seven years now, Congress has responded to ag market conditions with annual ad hoc support for agriculture. But it's that federal support that's been propping up the farm economy. It's not because we're seeing higher grain prices.”

Newton described the process the bill will undergo in the Senate and while expecting some modifications, believes the goal in the Senate is to get it signed by July 4.

Newton highlighted an increase in funding for USDA’s export market development programs as critical support for America’s farmers and ranchers. Strengthening these programs will be very helpful in finding and developing new markets around the world. Newton added that the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service is particularly bullish on expanding American agriculture’s footprint in Southeast Asia.

“The world becomes more competitive each year, so, it's really important for us to get out and find those new deals to help the farm economy,” Newton explained. “Trade is clearly a focus of this administration, and I think President Trump will push for substantive progress ahead of next year’s midterm elections. In fact, I might be one of the few people who thinks we're going to get a Phase Two deal with China.”

Heightened U.S.-China trade tensions, which have severely limited beef and pork exports to China in recent weeks, were a major topic of discussion throughout the USMEF Spring Conference. But President and CEO Dan Halstrom noted that rather than dwell on trade obstacles, the conversation focused mostly on how to develop and capitalize on alternative destinations.

“USMEF’s focus is on bringing solutions to the table,” Halstrom said. “So when we see something like China happen, we're pivoting on the demand side – and this is what our membership expects of us. That's why we have these offices all over the world, 105 employees in 20 regions, and that's what they are there for – to be as nimble as possible at finding solutions when there are changes in market conditions and market access.”

Opening day speakers at the USMEF Spring Conference included CattleFax CEO Randy Blach and Rick Stott, President and CEO of Superior Farms. Highlights from their remarks are available in this press release.

USMEF members will next meet at the organization’s annual Strategic Planning Conference, Nov. 12-14 in Indianapolis.



Soybean Farmers Decry Unscientific MAHA Commission Report That Ironically Will Make Americans Less Healthy

The American Soybean Association strongly rebukes the May 22 Make America Healthy Again Commission report for being brazenly unscientific and damaging to consumer confidence in America’s safe, reliable food system. Should the administration act on the report—which was drafted entirely behind closed doors— it will harm U.S. farmers, increase food costs for consumers, and worsen health outcomes for all Americans. ASA calls on President Trump, who has long been a friend of farmers, to step in and correct the Commission’s deeply misguided report.

Farmers represented by ASA are disturbed the MAHA report contains recommendations that are not at all grounded in science and seem to advance the agenda of food elitists and activist groups that have long sought to undermine U.S. agriculture. These developments are even more troubling after Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. falsely assured members of Congress earlier in the week of the report’s release that, “there is not a single word in [the report] that should worry the American farmer.”

ASA Director Alan Meadows grows soybeans in Halls, Tennessee. As ASA’s Regulatory Committee Chairman, he understands explicitly the implications of the MAHA report and spoke to the deep concerns of he and ASA’s full farmer board: “Both farmers and members of Congress tried to warn the administration that activist groups were trying to hijack the MAHA Commission to advance their longstanding goal of harming U.S. farmers. Reading this report, it appears that is exactly what has happened.”

MAHA’s misleading report suggests glyphosate, atrazine and other pesticides essential to farmers are potential contributors to health ailments.

“Activist organizations and trial lawyers are already engaged in baseless lawfare on pesticides. By bizarrely, without reason singling out two specific pesticides, the administration has offered activists a gift on a silver platter. Those groups will be poised to use the report to advance litigation aimed at taking away these tools American farmers use safely and effectively to produce our food,” Meadows said. “It is sad—and downright unjust—that, because of this one unfounded report, those decisions likely will be made by a judge and the court of public opinion instead of the regulatory system created for these very decisions and based on years and reams of credible science and research.”

In addition to repeated safety findings from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, ASA notes that glyphosate was recently re-approved by the European Union for 10 years after finding it safe. These findings follow similar conclusions from regulators in Canada, Japan, the UK, Australia, South Korea, and elsewhere.

Concerningly, this report may also undermine national security. If domestic manufacturers exit the market due to increased and unfounded liability created by the report, the U.S. will be almost entirely reliant on China—which currently produces more than 80% of the world’s glyphosate—for continued supplies of this essential agricultural tool.

ASA is also disturbed the report implies seed oils are contributors to reduced human health. Significant research conducted over decades shows that plant-based oils are low in saturated fats and can improve health outcomes. For example, a March 2025 study from the Journal of the American Medical Association found after following more than 220,000 individuals for more than 30 years that frequent consumption of plant-based oils led to a 16% reduction in cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other ailments when compared to alternatives high in saturated fat.

“This is truly a case of saying up is down and down is up,” Meadows said. “We’re discouraging people from consuming heart-healthy oils and driving them to instead use fats that will make them less healthy and cost them more in the process. This is the exact opposite of what our government should be doing.”

A third-party economic study released in April and conducted on behalf of ASA and the United Soybean Board found that removing seed oils from the food supply could increase consumer costs for edible fats and oils by as much as 42%.

The Executive Order creating the MAHA Commission directs that a second report be issued within 80 days of this report, providing policy recommendations based on the findings of the first report.

U.S. soybean farmers call on President Trump to intervene and correct the glaring misinformation and anti-farmer findings in this first report. Further, farmers implore the president to create a process for public input for any follow-up reports to ensure activists cannot again use a closed-door process to harm American farmers and consumers.



Corn Growers Deeply Troubled by MAHA Report Release

The Make America Healthy Again Commission today released its long-awaited report, which denigrates the safety of key pesticides used by corn growers and other farmers. In response, the National Corn Growers Association released the following statement:

“The Make America Healthy Again Report is filled with fear-based rather than science-based information about pesticides. We are deeply troubled that claims of this magnitude are being made without any scientific basis or regard for a long history of EPA expert evaluations of these products.

“Decades of extensive research and testing show that pesticides, including atrazine and glyphosate, can be applied safely for their intended uses. If the administration’s goal is to bring more efficiency to government, then why is the secretary of Health and Human Services duplicating efforts by raising questions about pesticides that have been answered repeatedly through research and reviews by federal regulatory bodies?

“We call on the administration to respect the existing body of science on pesticides and, moving forward, to include America’s farmers in discussion as this process evolves.”



Pork Producers Work to Fill Protein Gap in America, Despite MAHA Report Implications
 
National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) President Duane Stateler, a pork producer from McComb, Ohio, released the following statement on the ‘Make American Healthy Again’ (MAHA) Commission report.
 
“U.S. pork producers are proud to provide a safe and nutrient-dense protein for all Americans, and we support honest efforts to continuously improve our nation’s health and prosperity. Like others in farming and agriculture, we agree that nutritious, healthy, safe, and affordable protein from meat should be widely accessible so everyone can achieve the basic needs of a balanced diet. Filling our nation’s protein gap is critical, especially for those focused on food insecurity and improving the health of our nation.
 
“Efforts that not only exclude agriculture’s input, but also undermine the work of farmers serving our nation, are misguided and detrimental to all who care about facts and truth. Inflammatory rhetoric and distortions, meant to galvanize attention to achieve particular ideological outcomes, are harmful and undermine the world-class safety and reliability of the American food system. We urge extreme caution and recognize this as a moment for leadership that not only fosters and maintains trust in the foods we consume but also defends farmers against unwarranted and unfounded attacks.
 
“Our current system of producing food at scale for a vast and growing nation has unleashed prosperity and opportunity from coast to coast, and it is built on the strength of the shrinking number of us who continue to farm. Right now, it is vital for policy makers, members of Congress, and executive branch officials to ensure that America’s food security – and farm families like mine – remain strong, vibrant, and lasting.
 
“We urge President Trump to support America’s farmers, who use modern practices to feed 98% of the population. We implore this administration to ensure farmers have a seat at the table when discussions and decisions impacting our livelihoods are made. On behalf of my fellow 60,000+ pork producers and our commitment to continuous improvement, we stand ready and willing to assist and partner in transparent, risk-based research to further the health of our nation.”



NFU Statement on the Make America Healthy Again Commission Report

National Farmers Union (NFU) President Rob Larew released the following statement today upon the release of the Make America Healthy Again Commission Report:

“NFU appreciates the attention the White House brings to the health and well-being of America’s children. We agree that addressing chronic disease, nutrition and environmental exposures must be grounded in sound science, transparency and a commitment to public health.

“Farmers and ranchers live, work and raise their families on the same land where they grow the safe, nutritious food that feeds our nation and the world. Policy solutions must ensure family farmers retain the tools they need to support their livelihoods and the well-being of their communities. Innovation has long been a cornerstone of American agriculture, and we must be cautious not to stymie progress with one-size-fits-all restrictions.

“The report rightly highlights the threat of corporate consolidation in our food and agriculture system. As small and mid-sized farmers are pushed out, diversity in farming, local food systems and rural economies decline. Improving health outcomes must go hand-in-hand with restoring fairness and competition. We stand ready to work with the administration on meaningful solutions to this long-standing issue.

“Farmers are key partners in building a healthier food system. But meaningful progress requires that farmers have a seat at the table. Disregarding the expertise of respected regulatory bodies and leaving farmers out of the conversation undermines public trust and puts the future of American agriculture and rural economies at risk. We urge the administration to include the voices of family farmers and ranchers as they continue this work and to ensure that solutions are rooted in sound science, fairness and transparency.”



John Deere Acquires Sentera to Integrate Aerial Field Scouting

John Deere (NYSE: DE) announced today the acquisition of Sentera, a leading provider of remote imagery solutions for agriculture headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota. This acquisition will advance the capabilities of John Deere’s existing technology offerings, providing farmers and ag service providers with a more comprehensive set of tools to generate and use data to make decisions that improve farm profitability, efficiency, and sustainability.

“We’re excited to add Sentera’s talented team to our organization and integrate their advanced solutions into the suite of John Deere tools that help farmers do more with less,” said Chris Winkler, Director of Digital Software and Solutions at John Deere. “Combining Sentera’s imagery capabilities with the John Deere Operations Center™ will enable farmers and trusted advisors to seamlessly gather and integrate agronomic data, understand real-time conditions, and turn data into insights that drive decisions in the field throughout the growing season.”

Sentera’s industry-leading cameras are compatible with most major drone platforms and enable farmers and crop scouts to quickly and efficiently capture high-resolution data at scale. Their capabilities and FieldAgent software tools help farmers and agronomists assess plant-level health, identify stressors, and take action. In addition, SMARTSCRIPT™ Weeds, a customized herbicide prescription, can be delivered to sprayers with individual nozzle control.

Drones equipped with Sentera technology fly over fields at high speeds and generate high-resolution images. These images are processed with Sentera’s FieldAgent application to identify the exact location of specific weeds and generate a weed map. This map becomes a targeted prescription for how much product a farmer needs to load into their sprayer, helping minimize waste. Once the prescription is generated, it can be wirelessly sent to compatible equipment through the John Deere Operations Center.

Weed maps are just one example of actionable data that is enabled with Sentera scouting technology. The same process can be used in a field to assess crop stand uniformity, disease pressure, and pests. Integrating Sentera also supports John Deere’s approach to meeting farmers where they are on the technology adoption journey. It offers new precision capabilities to a broad range of customers while also complementing more advanced precision ag technologies, including See & Spray™.

“As a customer of John Deere and Sentera today, the value of this integration is clear,” said Nick Einck, Director of Agronomy at Chandler Coop in Chandler, Minnesota. “Sentera’s scouting solutions allow us to quickly gather data across more acres and with greater detail, enabling us to customize our approach to each field. Coupled with the John Deere technologies we already leverage today, we can be more efficient and deliver even better outcomes for our customers.”

Sentera will continue to supply cameras directly to drone manufacturers for integration into their products, as well as sell to farmers, agronomists, ag retailers, and other users. The John Deere Operations Center will continue to be open for other drone imagery providers for integration, as well, ensuring customers and their trusted advisors continue to have choices on the solutions that work best for their operation.

“John Deere provides us a great outcome and is exactly the right home for Sentera,” said Brian Wenngatz, CEO of Sentera. “They are the industry benchmark for innovation in precision agriculture, and they share our belief that the future of access to these technologies is built on trusted relationships, measurable insights, and scalable platforms. Together, we’ll be able to support more farmers and help them unlock even more value.”