Friday October 24 Ag News - Pillen to lead Trade Mission - NE Hosts Philippian Trade Team - Nebraska E30 Study - and more!

Doing our best for cattle
Alfredo DiCostanzo, Nebraska Beef Systems Extension Educator

While I managed the University of Minnesota feedlot, some ten plus years ago, I experienced an embarrassing situation worth sharing here today. A veterinarian from a well-known pharmaceutical company and a sale representative from the same company were visiting on a bright, sunny, and very cold winter day. We stepped outside to look at groups of pens where lightweight cattle were housed.

Cattle had been in the feedlot for over two weeks, and we had just come through an extremely cold and snowy event. As we stepped closer to the bunk, the sales representative spotted and pointed to two dead cattle. The bodies were lying right behind the bunk, frozen, semi-covered in snow and the peculiar combination of snow and cattle manure. Obviously, their pen mates had climbed over their bodies to reach feed in the bunk for more than one day.

I was extremely embarrassed. For several reasons, because this happened in front of a veterinarian and a representative of the industry I strive to serve, these dead cattle gave the indication that we were either falling behind or not aware of a disease occurring then. Worse yet, finding these cattle in the

pen not far from where cattle eat and the tractor pulling the mixer goes by at least once daily were indicative of our lack of attention to detail or disregard for dead cattle.

For over 99% of cattle producers, none of those indications, drawn from the discovery of the bodies by someone not from the university, represent our attitude towards an animal that succumbed to disease or some other fatal event. Yet, when we fail to act to remove dead cattle from areas where they feed or graze or where they access watering or loafing areas, the impression we all give is that we have little regard for the loss of animal life.

In the situation I described in Minnesota, I, and the students working at the feedlot, failed to see the dead animals in the pen. We, who failed to see them, could simply ascribe this to a failure to be observant. We would have eventually found them, but when? Because visitors found them before we did, the impressions this situation generated created greater embarrassment and a feeling of guilt.

Fast forward to 2022, while driving a UTV with my son, it was my turn to spot a similar situation at a feedlot. This time, I was the one who spotted dead critters in the middle of a pen where muddy conditions were now turning to dry mud. Because I was with my son and did not see anyone around the yard, I did not drive in to notify anyone of this.

Recently, again, a similar situation occurred where removing the dead animal took greater effort than should be necessary. Describing the location or conditions of the situation are unnecessary.

Instead, it may be a good time to reflect on our response to the death of animals that serve us.

If it were a pet animal, we all know how we would react. Yet, I would argue that animals that serve us by producing offspring or their offspring, which provide us with beef and byproducts, should deserve as much, if not more, respect when they fail to complete their production cycle on our farms and ranches.

On the one hand, Nebraska Revised Statue 54-2946 (https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=54-2946) states that It is the duty of the owner or custodian of any dead animal to properly dispose of the animal within thirty-six hours after receiving knowledge of the animal's death unless

a different timeframe is established in a herd or flock management plan or otherwise allowed by the State Veterinarian. Yet, I would propose that most of us gladly accept that duty. However, not all of us have thought of or developed a plan to deal with animal mortality on our farms or ranches.

At the farm, ranch or feedlot, a plan to deal with cattle mortality should be developed and made available to all individuals who manage cattle. The plan should include contact information about rendering services or alternative plans for dealing with cattle mortalities.

After all, the animals under our care are giving us the best they can; taking care of them at the end of their lives is doing our best for them.



Pillen to Lead Trade Mission to Israel

Next week, Governor Jim Pillen will lead a trade mission to Israel. The state delegation includes representatives from the Nebraska Department of Economic Development; Jewish Federation of Omaha; and Nebraska’s agricultural equipment manufacturing, food manufacturing, and professional service industries. The mission will take place from October 27-30.

In Israel, state leaders will promote Nebraska-made kosher beef, encourage agricultural technology (ag tech) partnerships, and develop relationships with civil associations. During the mission, Gov. Pillen will hold high-level diplomatic meetings and discuss the critical role played by U.S. defense technologies to secure Israel from attack. The delegation will also have an opportunity to see humanitarian work in Israel being supported by organizations in Nebraska.

Nebraska accounts for more than 99% of all U.S. beef exports to Israel. In 2024, Nebraska exported $13.5 million of beef products to Israel. The state’s beef sales to Israel are increasing. From January through July of 2025, Nebraska beef exports to Israel are 27% higher than they were during the same period last year.

In recent years, agricultural manufacturers in Nebraska have worked closely with Israeli ag tech companies. Lindsay Corporation collaborated with Taranis, which develops crop management software, to create its Smart Pivot. Taranis has since moved its headquarters from Tel Aviv to the U.S., but maintains its office in Israel. Reinke has partnered with CropX Technologies (based in Netanya, Israel) to create a pivot-mounted sensor to monitor crop water use. In 2021, Valmont acquired Prospera Technologies, an Israel-based AI company specializing in applying machine learning to agriculture.

Nebraska’s reputation for ag innovation has attracted investment from Israeli ag tech startup Greeneye Technology. The company uses Artificial Intelligence for precision weed and pest control.  Working with Nebraska farmers, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Agricultural Research Division conducted field trials to demonstrate the benefits of Greeneye’s precision spraying system. The company is now partnering with Boeck Seed Services—based in Exeter, Nebraska—to serve corn and soybean growers throughout the Midwest.

Along with economic ties, Nebraska enjoys strong cultural and academic connections to Israel. The state’s Jewish community facilitates cultural exchange with Israel through educational and travel experiences. Additionally, multiple Nebraska universities have established academic programs or professorships dedicated to the study of Jewish society and culture. These include the Schwalb Center for Israel and Jewish Studies at the University of Nebraska Omaha, the Harris Center for Judaic Studies at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and the Klutznick Chair in Jewish Civilization at Creighton University. Together, these entities host an annual symposium on Jewish civilization.



Nebraska Corn Hosts Philippians Trade Team

Several Nebraska corn farmers hosted a trade team before the U.S. Grains and BioProducts Council’s (USGBC) Global Ethanol Summit (GES) in Washington, D.C. The conference features concurrent panel discussions with experts on various topics within the biofuel industry, such as sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), industrial applications, clean cooking and maritime fuels.

Before the conference, a trade team from the Philippines visited Nebraska to tour supply chains, engage with the ethanol industry and meet with farmers. During the visit, the team heard from the Nebraska Corn Board, Nebraska Ethanol Board and Renewable Fuels Nebraska prior to traveling to Henderson to visit Jason Lewis’ farm. Lewis is a Nebraska Corn Growers Association (NeCGA) board member and a National Corn Growers Association board member. At the farm, the delegation discussed and was introduced to American agriculture, had the opportunity to ride in the combine and the grain cart with the Lewis family.

“Harvest is an ideal time for trade teams to see firsthand the corn leaving the field that will soon be exported to them or in the value-added products they need,” said Lewis. “The work we put into the crops each year can be seen at this time of year, and to have trade teams ride in the combine allows them an experience of connecting field to product.”

For the remainder of their stay in Nebraska, the group toured KAAPA Ethanol, visited Michael Dibbern, NeCGA president’s farm in Wood River and explored Bosselman’s Enterprises Co. in Grand Island. They also stopped at Pump and Pantry and Shell locations offering ethanol-blended fuels and concluded their visit at the Union Pacific Railroad in Omaha.

The GES is an education and trade forum that seeks to elevate bioethanol’s international visibility and ongoing successful initiatives as a viable decarbonization solution within the transportation sector. More than 350 ministerial-level officials and industry leaders, bioethanol producers and refiners from more than 40 countries are attending this year to learn about the numerous environmental and human health benefits of globally expanding the use of biofuels.



Sustained excellence recognized at 2025 IANR Distinguished Faculty Celebration

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) recognized and honored a past administrator, nine faculty members, and a team of faculty and staff on Sept. 25 during its annual Distinguished Faculty Celebration at the Nebraska East Union.

The annual event celebrates faculty members who have received endowed or university professorships, the recipients of the 2025 faculty awards, and the donors who make these awards possible.

Five faculty members were honored with professorships for their achievements and impact on both the University and the state of Nebraska. Three were awarded endowed professorships and two were recognized for university professorships that were previously awarded through the Office of the Executive Vice Chancellor in 2025.

Jinliang Yang was named the Charles O. Gardner Professor of Agronomy. Yang is a plant geneticist in the Department of Agronomy and Horticulture and is internationally recognized for his work in maize genomics and breeding that is strengthening global food security. This professorship was made possible by the generosity of Tom and Linda Hoegemeyer and Richard and Linda McConnell to honor the late Charles O. Gardner, a long-time faculty member in the Department of Agronomy and Horticulture. 

Deborah VanOverbeke was named the Marvel K. Baker Professor of Animal Science. VanOverbeke is a national leader in meat science and value-added beef quality, advancing supply-chain collaboration and consumer trust. She has served as the head of the Department of Animal Science since 2023. This professorship was made possible by the late Robert and Ardis James in honor of the former head of the Department of Animal Science. 

Tamra Jackson-Ziems was named the John and Patty Wilson Professor of Plant Pathology. She is the inaugural recipient of this professorship established by John Wilson, emeritus Extension Education, and his wife, Patty Wilson. Jackson-Ziems, an extension specialist and professor in the Department of Plant Pathology, leads producer-driven disease management efforts and is a cornerstone of Nebraska row-crop health. 

Starting in 2026, the Ray and Jolene Ward Professorship in Soil Health Science will become the newest endowed professorship in IANR. Ray and the late Jolene Ward started Ward Labs, a full-service agricultural testing laboratory, in 1983. The Kearney-based business helps agricultural producers make informed, sustainable decisions by providing accurate soil health analysis.

John Benson, a wildlife ecologist in the School of Natural Resources, was awarded the Susan Rosowski Professorship. Benson’s work focuses on advancing population modeling and conservation decision-making.

Erin Blankenship was awarded the John E. Weaver Professorship. Blankenship is a leader in applied statistics education and cross-campus collaboration in the Department of Statistics.

“Professorships are among the highest recognitions we bestow,” said IANR interim Vice Chancellor Tiffany Heng-Moss. “Honoring faculty whose achievements and impact elevate Nebraska and bring attention and acclaim to the University.”

IANR also presented four awards to faculty members and one faculty/staff team that have demonstrated excellence in teaching, research, and extension in 2025.

The Dinsdale Family Faculty Award was awarded to Dylan Mangel, Ph.D., from the Department of Plant Pathology. Mangel has established a nationally recognized soybean pathology program since joining Nebraska in 2022, securing more than $5.1 million in competitive grants. His research on soybean diseases has been shared statewide with growers, crop advisors, and commodity partners through presentations, extension publications, and the Crop Protection Network. His mentorship of both graduate and undergraduate students through hands-on experiences in the areas of diagnostics, trials, and data analysis is building a network of expertise to assist Nebraska Producers for years to come. The award is named for Roy Dinsdale, a 1948 graduate of the University of Nebraska College of Business Administration who worked in a family farming and cattle operation.

Amit Jhala, an Extension weed management specialist and professor of agronomy and horticulture, was the recipient of the Omtvedt Innovation Award for Extension. Jhala’s Weed Management Field Days and Weed Science School events have attracted more than 4,750 combined attendees in the last 13 years, aiding in the pest management decisions of a collectively managed 2.5-3 million acres. The results of his statewide surveys guide his research efforts on the most pressing challenges facing farmers and stakeholders. Jhala also coordinates program delivery at Nebraska’s Crop Production Clinics, leading to an estimated economic impact of $10-15 million.

Jessica Petersen, an associate professor in animal science, was the recipient of the Omtvedt Innovation Award for Research. Petersen’s animal genetics work has been transformative for multiple species, including the identification of a previously unknown genetic mutation in U.S. Hereford, Angus, and Red Angus cattle breeds and advancing the understanding of fertility, health, and disease in horses. As an author or co-author on 75 peer-reviewed publications, with data supporting 27 additional papers led by collaborators, her integration of molecular genetics with applied animal science helps interpret research into practical tools for producers and veterinarians. Petersen serves as a mentor in both industry and academia, having reached nearly 1,000 students through her courses. She is also a member of a federally funded, international team investigating the genetic makeup of performance and disease traits in horses and other mammals.

Daniela Manhani Mattos, an assistant professor of practice in agricultural economics, was the recipient of the Omtvedt Innovation Award for Teaching. A collaboration between Mattos and Rural Prosperity Nebraska has connected students in her Rural Community Economics course (AECN 376) with communities throughout Nebraska for a semester-long service-learning experience. The students meet with local leaders to help by delivering actionable plans to address community concerns such as housing, workforce development, and business retention. The course was redesigned by Mattos in 2021, now bridging theory and practice to demonstrate how economics can serve rural vitality. It also helps students develop leadership, communication, and systems-thinking skills that they can share along with portfolio-ready work in job interviews.

The Omtvedt Innovation Team Award was presented to the Center for Ag Profitability (CAP). The team, led by Jay Parsons, developed an Agricultural Budget Calculator (ABC) tool that has created 3,854 customized crop budgets for its 1,758 registered users. A livestock budgeting component, funded by the Nebraska Corn Board and collaborators, is currently in development to support decision-making for whole farms and operations. The team developed a 12-module agricultural economics curriculum for high schools that was piloted by more than 20 teachers in 2025 to help strengthen pathways in ag-related education and careers. The Nebraska Women in Agriculture and Returning to the Farm programs have also supported the improvement of ag operations in the state through business communication and planning tools. CAP reached more than 9,400 participants through more than 240 educational programs in 2024. CAP’s webinars and podcasts have more than 25,300 combined annual views and plays, and its newsletter is delivered to 5,700 inboxes. Since 2021, CAP provided support for 86 projects totaling $22.6 million in funding from various sources, in addition to 24 peer-reviewed journal articles being contributed by CAP-affiliated faculty members. Team members include Jessica Groskopf, Jim Jansen, Glennis McClure, Anastasia Meyer, Shannon Sand, Ryan Benjamin, Randy Saner, J. Dave Aiken, Elliott Dennis, Bradley Lubben, Matthew Stockton, Cory Walters, John Westra, Mary Drewnoski, Joe Luck, Daren Redfearn, Tina Barrett, Ryan Evans, and Jeremy Eide.

Irv Omtvedt, namesake of the Innovation Awards, was also newly recognized at the event as Emeritus Neal and Leone Harlan Vice Chancellor for IANR. Omtvedt previously served as department head of animal science from 1975 to 1982 and IANR vice chancellor from 1988 until his retirement in 2000.

“Omtvedt is a visionary whose leadership shaped IANR’s modern era,” said Heng-Moss. “His legacy continues in these awards bearing his name.”

The Omtvedt awards mentioned above were created by Leone and the late Neal Harlan in honor of Dr. Omtvedt's tenure as IANR vice chancellor. 

Tiffany Heng-Moss, interim IANR vice chancellor and vice president for agriculture and natural resources, was also recognized with the Neal and Leone Harlan Vice Chancellor for IANR. Heng-Moss is a tenured professor in the department of entomology. Prior to being appointed interim vice chancellor in June 2025, she had been serving as dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources.




No negative effects found from E30 fuel on state vehicle fleet

What if the key to cleaner, cheaper fuel wasn’t waiting for tomorrow’s technology but was already here? 

In 2021, the State of Nebraska rolled out a fleet of 50 vehicles — Dodge Avengers and Chargers and Ford Fusions — for a trial, swapping regular gasoline for E30, a 30% ethanol blend. 

The goal was to answer a question for the future of clean energy: Can standard cars run reliably on higher-ethanol fuel without modification? If these workhorses within the state motor pool could handle higher-ethanol fuel without trouble, it could change what drivers everywhere put in their tanks.

And, it could have a positive ripple effect throughout the state.

“Nebraska's bioeconomy isn’t abstract; it’s embodied in this study,” said Rajib Saha, Richard L. and Carol S. McNeel Associate Professor of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, who led the study alongside graduate researcher Adil Alsiyabi and undergraduate student Seth Stroh. “It’s about corn farmers seeking new markets, rural towns gaining value and policymakers finally having concrete evidence that small tweaks could yield big wins — for the state, the climate and the bottom line.

“This project was not the work of an industry lobby or an outside consultant. It began in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, co-funded by the Nebraska Corn Board and the Nebraska Ethanol Board, and it’s indicative of the innovative, practical and high-impact research that has become synonymous with this department.” 

Each vehicle was outfitted with onboard diagnostic (OBD) trackers. Over the span of a year, the cars drove the Cornhusker state’s backroads and highways, and the trackers collected millions of data points.

The results were shared in a report:
    There were no observable negative effects on engine performance, despite the higher oxygen content in E30 fuel.
    Fuel efficiency dipped only modestly, but E30’s 2.5% price advantage made it economically equal, or better.
    A statewide shift from E15 to E30 fuel in fleet vehicles meant 66,000 more gallons of ethanol consumed annually and 529 tons fewer CO₂ emissions.
    If 10% of Nebraska’s non-flex-fuel vehicles switched, that would translate into 18.5 million gallons of additional ethanol use and 64,000 fewer tons of CO₂ — a genuinely monumental impact.

This work also was published in a peer-reviewed journal, and ethanol and energy publications called it a breakthrough, according to Saha. The Nebraska Ethanol Board championed the results as proof that E30 could work in everyday vehicles.  

Saha also noted that it provided empirical evidence that higher ethanol blends could deliver both savings and sustainability through modest MPG changes and big cost savings; no hardware failures or check-engine nightmares; and data-driven environmental benefits tied directly to corn-based ethanol.

Phase II launched in 2023, and as of mid‑2025, nearly 94 state vehicles have logged hundreds of thousands of miles on E30.

“E30 is safe, effective and economically viable,” Saha said. “The results of this project are reinforcing the idea that higher ethanol blends aren’t fringe — they’re practical and scalable.” 

The data could reshape Nebraska's economy.

“Nebraska's bioeconomy isn’t abstract — it’s about corn farmers seeking new markets, rural towns gaining value and policymakers finally having concrete evidence that small tweaks could yield big wins: for the state, the climate and the bottom line,” Saha said. “This isn’t just about fuel. It’s about leadership and about a department not asking, ‘Could this work?’ but ‘Why couldn’t it work?’ This team transformed every day vehicles into agents of change — bridging cornfields with cutting-edge data science.”

As part of the core project team, Loren Isom, associate director of the University of Nebraska Industrial Agricultural Products Center, emphasized that fuel economy should be viewed through the lens that matters most to drivers: cost per mile. Interim data from the Phase II study confirms that vehicles operating on E30 fuel blends are delivering savings, with the 2003–2019 vehicle group recording a 20% lower operating cost or 16 cents per mile on E30 versus 20 cents on E10.

That kind of evidence is why the Nebraska Ethanol Board views the effort as more than an experiment.

“The E30 demonstration is a terrific project for Nebraska,” said Ben Rhodes, director of the board. “This is one-of-a-kind research that is adding real value to the state. We’re showing that mid-level blends of homegrown ethanol are safe and effective across the entire US light-duty fleet, as well as demonstrating that E30 is viable under real-world market conditions.”

So far, the State of Nebraska has utilized more than 600,000 gallons of E30 fuel in the study, saving more than $300,000 in fuel costs and adding nearly $400,000 in value to Nebraska’s ethanol producers.

“It’s clear this is moving in the right direction toward the long-term goal of widespread E30 adoption and use,” Rhodes said.



'Cornhusker Economics: Ag Outlook' Meetings to Highlight Markets, Policy, Finances

Changes and uncertainty in agricultural finances, policy and markets will continue to shape Nebraska’s farm economy in the years ahead. A series of upcoming outlook presentations, hosted by the Center for Agricultural Profitability at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, will help producers and agribusiness professionals understand and prepare for the year ahead.

“Cornhusker Economics: Ag Outlook” meetings will feature experts from the university’s Department of Agricultural Economics and Nebraska Farm Business, Inc., sharing updates on crop and livestock markets, farm finances, ag policy and more. They will provide context and practical takeaways to help producers evaluate their risk management plans, adjust to changing conditions and position their operations for long-term success.

The meetings will also cover key tax provisions from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that affect agricultural operations, deductions and planning for the 2025 tax year. Presenters will also explore historical farm financial trends and what they see for the year ahead. A policy segment will cover farm program updates, including Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) decisions and directions for producers.

Speakers will include financial and tax professionals, commodity marketing experts, an agricultural policy specialist, and other agricultural economists. 

“Nebraska agriculture is facing a mix of opportunity and uncertainty,” said Jessica Groskopf, an extension agricultural economist at Nebraska. “With a new farm bill in development, it’s an important time to assess where markets, policy and financial conditions are headed and how they fit into each operation.”

Cornhusker Economics: Ag Outlook Schedule
    Dec. 4, 2025, 1-3 p.m., in Kearney (Buffalo County Extension Office, 1400 E. 34th St.) Register online or at 308-236-1235.
     
    Dec. 5, 2025, 9-11 a.m., in Scottsbluff (Panhandle Research, Extension and Education Center, 4502 Ave. I) Register online or at 308-632-1230.
     
    Dec. 10, 2025, 2-4 p.m. in Lincoln (Nebraska Extension in Lancaster County, 444 Cherrycreek Road, Suite A) Register online or at 402-441-7180.
     
    Dec. 11, 2025, 1-3 p.m. in Norfolk (Nebraska Extension in Madison County, 1305 S. 13th St.) Register online or at 402-370-4040.

The meetings are free to attend. Registration is requested by two days prior to each meeting.
Register here: https://unlcorexmuw.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8CDxs8M9tmIaSdo.  

Funding for this program was provided by the North Central Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Center: 2024- 2025 2024-70028-43552. 



Captive Insurance Workshop to Address Risk Financing in Agriculture, Dec. 2–3 in Lincoln

A two-day workshop on managing risk with captive insurance strategies for agriculture will be hosted by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Department of Agricultural Economics, Dec. 2–3, at Nebraska Innovation Campus in Lincoln, 2021 Transformation Drive.

The workshop, “Strategic Risk Financing in Agriculture: The Case for Captive Insurance,” will bring together producers, agribusiness leaders and service providers to explore how captives can be applied in farming and ranching operations.

Captive insurance companies are entirely owned by the businesses they insure. They are widely used in industries such as manufacturing, health care and transportation but remain relatively new to agriculture. The workshop will provide participants with a clearer understanding of how captives work, the questions to ask when considering them and how they may fit with existing risk management tools.

“We want to help producers and their advisors separate fact from fiction when it comes to captives,” said Cory Walters, associate professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics. “These insurance structures are not for everyone, but they may provide opportunities for some operations to cover risks that traditional policies don’t address well.”

Insurance captives for farm and ranch businesses can provide benefits such as enhanced risk coverage, cost management, potential financial returns and untaxed premium reserves, according to Walters. They should not replace underlying insurance policies but instead add a customized layer of insurance on top of what’s already in place. 

“For example, a farmer might hold a revenue protection crop insurance policy at 70% coverage but wants more,” Walters said. “Instead of buying county-based products like SCO or ECO, which may not match their own yield risk, they could form a captive to cover losses. The farm retains its original policy, but now also pays premiums into its own captive company to insure that gap.”

The workshop agenda includes sessions on current insurance market trends, alternative insurance capital, the history and scope of the captive market, captive solutions for agriculture, questions to ask a captive manager and governance and tax considerations. Panel discussions will cover insights from producers who have formed captives and dialog between captive insurance experts and producers who have and are forming captives. The workshop will close with a session on long-term risk management strategy.

Registration is $240 for farmers and ranchers and $440 for others. There is a 20% early-bird discount that will apply for registrations before Nov. 14. The registration form and more details are available at agecon.unl.edu/captives.



POLL: RURAL NEBRASKANS MORE OPTIMISTIC ABOUT CURRENT, FUTURE WELL-BEING

Over the past 30 years, the Nebraska Rural Poll has asked respondents about their current well-being, as well as their outlook on their future. This year, 53% of respondents believe they are better off than they were five years ago, up from 36% last year. This increase in optimism was matched with a sharp decrease in pessimism. This year, just 16% of rural Nebraskans surveyed believe they are worse off compared to five years ago, down from 33% last year.

This same trend of increased optimism held when asked about the future, said Becky Vogt, poll manager. Forty-six percent of rural Nebraskans surveyed indicate they will be better off 10 years from now, up from 34% last year. The proportion of respondents stating they will be worse off in a decade declined slightly from last year (26% to 20%).

“The increase in optimism seems to be in spite of increased economic uncertainty, particularly in ag,” said Brad Lubben, associate professor of agricultural economics at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. “One explanation could be because we’re comparing 2025 to 2020, when we were in the early stages of COVID-19. Comparisons of pre- vs. post-COVID changes in attitude have previously been tied to increased pessimism, but thinking about now versus the depths of the COVID-19 pandemic may leave little comparison.”

Certain groups are more likely to be optimistic about their current situations, as well as about their futures, according to the poll. These include younger people, households with higher incomes, households with higher levels of education and people who have never married.

A possible explanation of the increased feelings of optimism is that rural Nebraskans expressed more satisfaction with many economic items this year than they did last year. These items include general quality of life, general standard of living, job satisfaction, job security, current income level, the ability to build assets/wealth, financial security during retirement and job opportunities.

Last year, 45% of rural Nebraskans surveyed were satisfied with their ability to build assets or wealth. That proportion increased to 55% this year.

Similarly, this year, fewer respondents agree with the statement that people are powerless to control their own lives as compared to last year, decreasing from 40% to 32%. Also, most rural Nebraskans surveyed describe their mental health or emotional well-being as good (52%) or excellent (34%). This question has been asked since 2023. The proportion rating their mental health as excellent is higher than it has been the past two years (from 28% and 27% in 2023 and 2024, respectively, to 34% this year).

One occupation class did not share in the increased satisfaction with economic items, or positive reflections of their mental health or emotional well-being. According to the poll, people with production, transportation or warehousing jobs are most likely to be dissatisfied with their ability to build assets or wealth, afford their residence and find job opportunities. They are also most likely to agree that people are powerless to control their own lives and least likely to rate their mental health as excellent.

“The rise in optimism among many rural Nebraskans is encouraging — it shows that when people feel more secure financially, their outlook on life and mental health improve, as well,” Vogt said. “But the data also remind us that not everyone is experiencing that same sense of stability. Understanding these gaps is key to helping all rural Nebraskans share in that sense of optimism.”

When the poll also asked about loneliness, a slight majority of respondents said they hardly ever or never experience feelings of loneliness. Just more than half responded that they hardly ever or never feel: isolated from others (60%); lacking in companionship (58%); and left out (52%).

Comparing these responses by age, the youngest respondents (ages 19 to 29) were more likely than older persons to say they often experience these feelings.

“It’s encouraging that most rural Nebraskans report rarely feeling lonely, but knowing that younger adults are more likely to feel isolated is something communities should pay attention to,” said Mary Emery, professor in the Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communication and director of Rural Prosperity Nebraska, the community development branch of Nebraska Extension. “Strong social ties have long been a hallmark of rural life, yet the poll’s results suggest that younger residents may not be as connected as previous generations.”

However, despite the feeling of loneliness, most rural Nebraskans identify with rural communities — they see themselves as belonging to these communities, identify with people who live there, believe they are typical of people who live there and say their general attitudes are similar to people who live there.

The “Well-being” report and its implications for rural Nebraska will be highlighted during a Rural Poll webinar at noon Oct. 30. Emery will lead the discussion and facilitate the concluding Q&A. Register here https://ruralpoll.unl.edu/resources/webinars/. 

The 2025 Nebraska Rural Poll marks the 30th year of tracking rural Nebraskans’ perceptions about policy and quality of life, making it the largest and longest-running poll of its kind. This summer, questionnaires were mailed to more than 6,700 Nebraska households, with 943 households from 86 of the state’s 93 counties responding. The poll carries a margin of error of plus-or-minus 3%. Conducted by Rural Prosperity Nebraska with funding from Nebraska Extension, the Rural Poll provides three decades of data on the voices of rural Nebraskans. Current and past reports are available at https://ruralpoll.unl.edu. 



New Center for Rural Affairs resource analyzes ways to combine solar projects with conservation practices

Managing the land used to host solar energy projects with conservation practices can be a tool for good land stewardship, offering economic and ecological benefits.

Released today, a fact sheet from the Center for Rural Affairs, “Unlocking the Dual Benefits of Solar Energy and Conservation Practices,” analyzes the dual benefits of solar energy and conservation practices.

Conservation practices are methods used to manage, protect, and restore natural resources, often by minimizing erosion and enhancing biodiversity for long-term ecological health. These practices can be implemented on land being used to host solar projects.

“Solar energy development is often viewed as a threat to various land use practices, but it can actually work alongside them,” said Cora Hoffer, senior policy associate at the Center for Rural Affairs. “Implementing conservation practices on the land under solar panels can improve soil health, and support wildlife and pollinator habitat. It can also offer financial support to farmers and landowners through land-lease revenue or cost savings from on-farm electricity generation.”

Exploring the opportunity to site solar projects on land enrolled in federal conservation programs, like the Conservation Stewardship Program and Environmental Quality Incentives Program, could allow landowners to demonstrate good land stewardship while continuing to generate income.

Several land management practices that can be implemented at solar sites are supported by federal conservation programs, such as grazing livestock to manage vegetation and planting pollinator-friendly species to provide habitat and stabilize soil. Additionally, shade created by solar panels cools the soil and reduces water loss, potentially improving yields and plant quality.

“Rather than viewing solar energy and ecological stewardship as having competing interests, combining them offers a forward-thinking approach to sustainable land-use,” said Hoffer. “It presents an opportunity to address growing energy demand and conservation efforts, while providing financial benefits to farmers and landowners.”

The fact sheet is available in both English and Spanish. To read and download a copy of the fact sheet, visit cfra.org/publications.



Naig, Reynolds Encourage Farmers to Plant Fall Cover Crops to Save Money on Crop Insurance

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig and Governor Kim Reynolds are encouraging Iowa farmers to plant cover crops this fall to improve water quality and save money on next year’s crop insurance premiums. The savings are offered through the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s (IDALS) Crop Insurance Discount Program.

The innovative annual program, part of the implementation of Iowa’s Nutrient Reduction Strategy, provides farmers who plant fall cover crops the opportunity to apply for a $5 per acre discount on their crop insurance premiums. There is no cap on the number of cover crop seeded acres that can receive the crop insurance discount.

“We've seen strong interest in our cover crop cost-share programs this summer and fall, and we anticipate just as much enthusiasm for our Crop Insurance Discount Program when the online sign-up opens in December. This innovative program has been effective in advancing the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy by boosting cover crop adoption while helping farmers reduce their crop insurance costs,” said Secretary Naig. “I encourage farmers and landowners to sign-up online or visit with their crop insurance agent for help to get enrolled. This program is one of multiple options to secure funding for cover crops and conservation practices.”

“The Crop Insurance Discount Program is one of many options available to farmers interested in planting cover crops and implementing conservation practices. This voluntary and innovative program not only encourages cover crop adoption but also offers farmers a discount on their crop insurance premiums. Our farmers understand the connection between soil health and crop production, and know what’s best for the fields they plant,” said Governor Kim Reynolds. “I’m proud to support Secretary Naig in announcing this annual program and encourage farmers to learn more about it.”

The sign-up period will begin on Monday, Dec. 1, 2025, and will close on Friday, Jan. 23, 2026. Participants can learn more about online enrollment by visiting CleanWaterIowa.org or by contacting their crop insurance agent. New this year, farmers can quickly express interest in the program now and receive notifications and follow-up reminders via e-mail when the program sign-up window is open in December and January. 

The program is jointly administered by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Risk Management Agency (RMA). To qualify, the cover crop acres cannot be enrolled in other IDALS or USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) cost share programs. Some insurance policies, such as Whole-Farm Revenue Protection or those covered through written agreements, may be excluded. Participants must follow all existing farming practices required by their respective policy and work with their insurance agencies to maintain eligibility.

Now in its ninth year, this innovative program has become a model for other states as well as the federal government. To date, nearly 2,000 farmers have enrolled more than 1.4 million acres of cover crops in the program.

To learn more about conservation and water quality in Iowa, visit CleanWaterIowa.org.



USDA to Resume Payments, Reopen FSA During Shutdown
ASA newsletter

Earlier this week, the Trump administration announced it will resume distribution of commodity program payments to farmers and reopen "core Farm Service Agency (FSA) operations" that have been stalled during the government shutdown. USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins said the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) payments, which cover the 2024 crop year, will begin disbursement this month.

During federal government shutdowns, government agencies have the authority to amend their lapse in appropriations plans and shift available resources to resume core mission functions.

USDA will process previously authorized payments that total an estimated $1.9 billion under ARC and $589 million under PLC. Rollins emphasized that restarting these operations will allow USDA to process farm loans, issue payments, and continue other critical services that are essential to farmers during harvest season.